Meet Peiyao Lyu | Film/Video Editor, Producer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Peiyao Lyu and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Peiyao, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
I’m a Film/Video Editor, Producer. When I was growing up, my life was filled with movies. When I was a kid, every weekend my parents would take me to buy movie CDs. Later, when I was in junior high, my father would take me to see a movie every Sunday night. It was my favorite family activity. I loved to talk about what happened in the movie. Gradually, I realized that film could change people’s perceptions. I began to want to make movies about social issues and how they affected the families involved. Movies are initially created to entertain. In today’s society, where people are inundated with fragmented videos and information, I hope that the film I make will give people a moment of respite, a short break.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I worked on the post-production of the third episode of G.R.T.I.S., a multiple Emmy award-winning sitcom from SCAD, in late 2021 as one of the editors and colorists. This project earned us the 2022 NATAS Southeast Chapter – Student Production Award. I learned a lot from this project. At the same time, I became an Avid Certificated Editor. Then, in 2022, my short film production Reunion Dinner was completed as a producer, editor, and writer. This was my thesis project at SCAD, and utilizing the knowledge and experience I gained from G.R.T.I.S. and other SCAD projects, I was able to win a number of awards such as the Canada shorts film festival, Independent Shorts Awards, and many more with my team.
As a filmmaker, producer, and editor, I think the most important thing to making a good movie is to have a story that inspires people. And the most natural way for me to convey emotions is through my own story. Reunion Dinner is based on my own personal experience. In my story, I was Ruby, but I was not as brave as Ruby. When I left my “Richard”, I didn‘t tell him to ”Be Himself”. So, I started to want to use my film to encourage my LGBTQ+ friends around me, especially my Asian friends. I thought the way I could make a small contribution to the world was to support and help vulnerable people to tell their stories.
Reunion Dinner is a microcosm of what I think most LGBTQ+ gen-z Chinese and Chinese families are like. Even though Ang Lee had already expressed this family situation that the LGBTQ+ community had to face in 1993 with The Wedding Banquet, the reality is that it has not improved much until today. My screenplay brings family relationships to a head in a universally relevant, very honest, and very real way.
My lead actor, Zeyuan “Zey”, is a very good friend of mine. I once told him my story. He talked about his coming out experience with his parents. His performance on set made me cry a few times. The torn, helpless male protagonist I wanted to show grew stronger with his performance. Reunion Dinner was a wonderful anchor for me. I hope to stop seeing my friends stop pursuing their own happiness because of the oppression of some traditional ideas.
This is my most personal and important film. I sincerely hope that Reunion Dinner of this ordinary Chinese family can bring a little change to the whole world.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Explore the historic charm of Savannah, GA, with a week-long itinerary designed to create unforgettable memories. Start with a stroll along River Street, savoring Southern cuisine at riverside restaurants. Discover the city’s past in the Historic District and relax in Forsyth Park’s lush greens. Delve into the haunting beauty at Bonaventure Cemetery before taking a ghost tour.

Experience Tybee Island’s sun and seafood, then explore Savannah’s squares and visit the SCAD Museum of Art. Enjoy a scenic riverboat cruise and dinner. Tour historic homes and immerse in City Market’s vibrant atmosphere. Savor brunch at Collins Quarter at Forsyth and explore the Georgia State Railroad Museum or Skidaway Island State Park. End the week with a farewell dinner at The Olde Pink House.

Throughout, don’t miss rooftop bars like Top Deck Bar and local breweries. This diverse mix of history, nature, and gastronomy will make Savannah an unforgettable experience for your best friend.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
A lot of people. I received my MFA in Film and TV from the Savannah College of Art and Design. While applying to this school, I received a lot of help and support from my undergraduate professor, Cory Carpenter, who is also an alumnus of SCAD. During graduate school, I met my advisor, Alex Newton, who helped me become a certified professional editor. As well as the tons of friends I made at SCAD.
Filmmaking is a team effort. I have met a lot of people from different professions and gained different expertise. We worked together to make movies and create stories, and it was an experience I will remember for the rest of my life.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/peggyyyia_/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/peiyao-lyu-0815/

Other: Editor Demo Reel: https://vimeo.com/750522674?share=copy