Filmmaking has never been a task that can or should be handled by a single person. There has always been the need for collaboration, particularly in this ever-evolving landscape of modern filmmaking. The challenge usually lies on producers to spearhead collaborations and most importantly create an atmosphere of equity for all.

Film producer Sharon S. Park, an award-winning Korean American Filmmaker chose to walk that path of collaboration and providing equity for all on her latest project “Meeting You, Meeting Me”.  Her dedication to storytelling is not only about the narratives she contributes to but also about the diverse voices she brings to the forefront. Undeniably, her latest project gives testament to her unwavering commitment to these principles.

Sharon S. Park’s foray into the business and art of filmmaking began in  Seattle, WA and flourished at the revered University of Southern California where she earned her MFA in directing by taking the Film & Television Production Program. Her exceptional skills and her potential as a transformative figure in filmmaking are evident in the numerous accolades she has picked up. These include the Mary Pickford Scholarship, the Muller Family Scholarship and a finalist fellowship at the Emmys Television Academy Foundation for TV Directing.

But beyond her impressive resume, what truly sets Sharon apart is her dedication to equity. In every project she undertakes, Sharon strives to bridge cultural gaps and promote diversity both on and off the screen. This commitment is evident in her film “Meeting You, Meeting Me,” a poignant narrative about an unexpected friendship between two women from vastly different backgrounds.

Sam Yim in Meeting You, Meeting Me (2024)

The beautiful drama written and directed by Lina Suh offers a heartwarming exploration of friendship, vulnerability and personal growth. It is a story about a Korean American divorce attorney and a Californian, college dropout who is also a social media influencer, who cross paths by chance and form an unlikely yet transformative friendship over a day’s encounter with each other.

This feature film’s narrative not only tackles themes of cultural identity and personal growth but also highlights the power of human connection in overcoming some of life’s challenges.

Sharon S. Park’s contribution to telling such a compelling story is a reflection of her deep understanding of the human condition and her dedication to highlighting diverse backgrounds and experiences. The characters in “Meeting You, Meeting Me,” feel like they are drawn from real-life struggles and triumphs, making her stories resonate on a profound level with varied audiences.

Equity isn’t just a theme in her films. It is the cornerstone of her working relationships as well. Her collaborative approach ensures that every voice is heard, and every contribution is valued. Her all-inclusive creative team and cast provide a creative environment that allows for diverse perspectives which results in the rich and authentic storytelling we see in  ‘Meeting You, Meeting Me”.

As a producer, her collaborative spirit is necessary for her interactions with the cast and crew.  Particularly for the actors, she is required to understand their backgrounds and motivations, which allows them to bring some depth and authenticity to their performances.

Also as the Voice Director for several Netflix Korean features and TV shows, she continues to use her platform to promote multicultural content. After all, her work includes her being a bridge between cultures, bringing her bilingual skills and cultural insights to the table in helping tell stories that resonates with audiences of different backgrounds.

There is no denying that Sharon S. Park’s dedication to equity, her ethics of collaboration and her ability to contribute immensely to compelling stories make her a standout producer in this ever-challenging film industry.

“Meeting You, Meeting Me” is more than just a film at this point.  It is a reflection of Park’s vision for a more inclusive and equitable world. As she continues to expand her endeavours in the field of film production and champion multicultural content, her impact on the industry will undoubtedly continue to grow.

Sharon’s latest film “Meeting You, Meeting Me” is co-presented by Rotten Tomatoes co-founder Paul Ji Hoon Lee at a very special screening in San Francisco this weekend (August 10) at the prestigious VOGUE Theater.