Chloé Zhao's Neurodivergent Superpower: Unlocking the Power of Sensitivity
Unveiling the Extraordinary Mind of a Filmmaking Visionary
At the BFI London Film Festival, Oscar-winning director Chloé Zhao shared her unique perspective as a neurodivergent filmmaker, offering a rare glimpse into the creative process that has made her one of the most celebrated directors of our time.
But here's where it gets controversial... Zhao's neurodivergence, a term that encompasses a range of neurological differences, has been a double-edged sword. While it presents challenges, she believes it's a superpower that sets her apart.
"I'm neurodivergent, and it's always been a bit of a puzzle why I don't fit in easily or why certain tasks, like small talk, are so much harder for me," Zhao revealed. "I'm easily overstimulated because I process so much information. I'm constantly trying to read people, their backgrounds, and their intentions. It's like a never-ending stream of data."
And this is the part most people miss... Zhao's sensitivity to dissonance, a term she uses to describe the mismatch between what people say and what they feel, is a key aspect of her directing style. "I can sense when an actor is not fully present or when there's an underlying emotion they're not expressing. It's like a sixth sense."
"Small talk is hard because I can't help but ask, 'What's really going on here?' It's not always welcome, but I think it's a superpower. It allows me to create an authentic world on screen and off."
Zhao's latest film, Hamnet, is a testament to her unique approach. Starring Paul Mescal and Jessie Buckley, the film explores grief and loss through a powerful and emotional lens. "It's a gut-wrenching drama that pulls at your heartstrings," she said.
But Zhao's journey hasn't been without its challenges. Growing up in Beijing, she and her family were only allowed to watch one Western film a week, with her first ever being The Terminator. "It's quite the introduction!"
Her breakthrough came with Eternals, a Marvel blockbuster that allowed her to explore her love for manga and fantasy. "As a child, I dreamed of becoming a manga artist. I drew every day and devoured every manga I could get my hands on."
"Making Eternals was like a volcanic eruption for me. I had so much bubbling inside, having traveled, met people, and experienced different cultures. I wanted to examine the human condition, and Eternals was my outlet."
So, what do you think? Is Zhao's neurodivergence a superpower or a challenge? Can it be both? Share your thoughts in the comments and let's spark a conversation about the unique perspectives that make our world so fascinating.
