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A Journey of Self-Discovery Through Compromise
1
PROJECT TYPE
2
ROLES
PERIOD
3
TOOLS
4
DIRECTOR of cinematography
Editor
Documentary
2 MONTHS
dji
canon 6D mark ii
rode video micro ii
final cut pro
A Journey of Self-Discovery Through Compromise
CLIENT
1
1
PROJECT TYPE
2
ROLES
3
YEAR
TOOLS
4
BRANDING
ART DIRECTION
SOCIAL MEDIA POST
COCO FRESH TEA & JUICE
GRAPHIC DESIGN
2020
DIRECTOR of cinematography
Editor
dji
canon 6D mark ii
rode video micro ii
final cut pro
OVERVIEW
Reach Higher is a personal narrative-driven video project that delves into the journey of a young man, Justin Zhang, and his love for basketball, with a dream of one day becoming a player in the Chinese Basketball Association (CBA). From childhood, Justin’s aspiration to play professionally faces a significant challenge when his parents intervene, worried that his passion might undermine his academic success and future stability. The story explores the emotional and practical struggles Justin encounters as he navigates family expectations, the pressures of education, and his own ambitions.
A Journey of Self-Discovery Through Compromise
CLIENT
1
1
PROJECT TYPE
2
ROLES
3
YEAR
TOOLS
4
BRANDING
DIRECTOR of cinematography
Editor
COCO FRESH TEA & JUICE
Documentary
2020
dji
canon 6D mark ii
rode video micro ii
final cut pro
OVERVIEW
Reach Higher is a personal narrative-driven video project that delves into the journey of a young man, Justin Zhang, and his love for basketball, with a dream of one day becoming a player in the Chinese Basketball Association (CBA). From childhood, Justin’s aspiration to play professionally faces a significant challenge when his parents intervene, worried that his passion might undermine his academic success and future stability. The story explores the emotional and practical struggles Justin encounters as he navigates family expectations, the pressures of education, and his own ambitions.
Behind the scenes
The intended audience for "Reach Higher" is young adults and students who find themselves navigating similar conflicts between personal passions and family expectations. This film also speaks to parents, shedding light on the pressure that children face to meet practical standards while pursuing their dreams. The story will resonate strongly with anyone who has struggled to reconcile family expectations with personal ambitions, highlighting the growth that comes from compromise, resilience, and the courage to pursue what you love responsibly. This film aims to inspire viewers to find harmony between their responsibilities and passions, encouraging them to pursue balance rather than an all-or-nothing approach to life.
purpose
Intended Audience
Development
logline
A young man’s dream of becoming a professional basketball player drives him to challenge his parents’ academic expectations, leading him to discover a delicate balance between his dreams and responsibilities.
Development
synopsis
"Reach Higher" tells the story of Justin Zhang, a basketball enthusiast who dreams of going pro in the Chinese Basketball Association (CBA). From a young age, he was encouraged by his parents, who saw basketball as a way to support his development. However, as his academics suffered, his parents grew concerned, believing that a basketball career was too fleeting and unpredictable. They insisted he prioritize his studies, leading Justin to hide his practices and eventually abandon the sport.
Years later, studying abroad in Canada, Justin’s approach to basketball matures. No longer a career aspiration, it becomes his personal motivation to balance his academic and athletic lives. His commitment to his studies earns him his parents’ support, showing that passion and responsibility can coexist. Justin’s journey is one of compromise, resilience, and the pursuit of balance between passion and family expectations.
storyboard
Drone Shot | bird's eye
2
Long Shot | eye-level | Dolly in
The camera then follows him as he walks purposefully toward the court, capturing his determination.
1
The film opens with a drone shot of a basketball court, establishing the setting as a representation of Justin’s dream.
medium shot | static low angle
long shot | low angle | Tilt up
3
A montage of Justin playing basketball on the court follows, accompanied by a voiceover in which he shares his childhood passion and ambition to become a CBA player.
4
medium shot | static eye-level
This segment transitions into an interview on the football field, where Justin reflects on his parents’ initial support for his basketball dream.
medium shot | static eye-level
5
Justin’s narration then shifts to his experience studying abroad in Canada, where he trains and studies without parental constraints. We see him at home, studying at his desk, visibly grappling with the challenges of balancing academics with his love for basketball in a new environment. This moment highlights the internal conflict between his dedication to basketball and his need to meet family expectations.
medium shot | static eye-level
medium close up | low angle
medium close up | Detail Shot
Back on the football field interview scene, he shares how he used basketball as a motivation to excel in both areas rather than as a career path. He recalls the moment he gained his parents' support by demonstrating his ability to manage both responsibilities effectively. Justin reflects on his journey and the lessons he has learned about balancing his dreams with his responsibilities.
6
location scouting
moodboard
moodboard
moodboard
takeaways
Lessons in Visual Storytelling
One of the biggest lessons I learned was the power of visual storytelling in creating emotion. By blending dynamic sports cinematography with personal interviews, I was able to highlight Justin’s struggles and growth. The opening montage of basketball B-roll was crucial in establishing his deep love for the sport, immersing the audience in his passion and dedication from the start. The final interview scene uses a low-angle shot, symbolizing Justin’s growth in confidence. The shift in perspective visually emphasized how far he had come, making his transformation feel more powerful and authentic.
Balancing Pacing and Structure
This project also pushed me to think more critically about pacing and structure. Moving between past and present required careful editing to ensure a smooth and engaging narrative flow. The energetic basketball montage at the start quickly established Justin’s love for the sport, while shifts in tone and visual perspective helped build emotional depth over time. These stylistic choices were essential in maintaining a natural rhythm and keeping the audience invested in his story.
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Let's Work Together
bY CHRISTY LAM 2025
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Let's Work Together
bY CHRISTY LAM 2025
Resume
Let's Work Together
bY CHRISTY LAM 2025
Resume
Let's Work Together
bY CHRISTY LAM 2025
Resume
Let's Work Together
bY CHRISTY LAM 2025
Resume
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