To Planet 2000″ – A Cinematic Odyssey of Love, Loneliness, and Freedom

In the vast tapestry of cinematic storytelling, every filmmaker weaves their unique thread. Changyi Yu, an award-winning director and cinematographer based in Los Angeles, has left an indelible mark with her latest creation, “To Planet 2000.” This captivating film, like its creator, is a testament to the art of storytelling and the power of personal expression.

“I enjoy writing and directing, as well as cinematography and lighting,” Yu explains. “Since I was a kid, I have been full of enthusiasm for art. I have painted, played the drums, and written short stories for many years, but when I discovered cinema, everything changed.” Her love for literature, nurtured by great writers like Nabokov, Faulkner, Dostoyevsky, Haruki Murakami, and Fitzgerald, influences her scripts. The fusion of literary depth with the visual medium of cinema is a hallmark of her work. Godard, the iconic French New Wave director, is a significant influence on Yu’s work. His unconventional filmmaking techniques and narrative style resonate with her artistic sensibilities. However, she also places immense value on the logic of storytelling and character development, making her cinema a harmonious blend of innovation and tradition.

Yu’s latest film, “To Planet 2000,” is a testament to her commitment to exploring the human condition. It tells the story of Benjy, an intellectually disabled man in a wheelchair, and a lonely, sensitive Asian girl. Their chance meeting sparks a naive revolution, a tumultuous escape plan, and a path towards self-healing.

This is not a typical love story, but romanticism is a prevalent theme. Benjy, the rebellious romanticist, is a character that challenges societal norms. He lives in the moment, unburdened by the judgments of others. His desires are simple – to stand on the street, just like any other person.

In a world filled with conformity, Changyi Yu’s “To Planet 2000” is a breath of fresh air, a cinematic journey that challenges conventions and invites us to explore the complexities of the human spirit. It’s a film that captures the essence of love, loneliness, and the unquenchable thirst for freedom – a true work of art.