On Your Radar: Zhenyi Li

On Your Radar is a Grad Film News segment that features a current student. We asked Zhenyi Li a few questions and this is what he said.

WHERE DO YOU CONSIDER HOME AND WHAT IS IT LIKE THERE?

I think "home" is difficult to define in just a few words or sentences, but deep down you always know where it is. For me, the distinction is simple: if you say you’re going back to a place, that’s likely home; it’s where your roots are. But if you say you’re going to a place, then it probably isn’t—it’s a destination, not a return.

I was born in Tangshan, a small city in northern China, though I only lived there until I was two and a half. Beijing is where I have my roots—it’s the place that shaped my earliest memories and sense of identity. Later, I spent three formative years in Macau, a blend of Chinese and Western cultures, before coming to New York to study and explore my voice. Together, they’ve made me who I am—a mosaic of experiences I carry wherever I go.

WHAT IS CURRENTLY INSPIRING YOU AS A FILMMAKER?

I believe filmmaking is a profound privilege—a chance to share stories that connect, challenge, and inspire. It’s a responsibility I don’t take lightly, as films have the power to shape how we see ourselves and others. For me, it’s about exploring the complexities of human experience and amplifying voices that often go unheard.

And yet, despite the weight of this responsibility, the process of making films fills me with excitement and wonder. There’s magic in seeing an idea come to life, from the first spark of inspiration to the collaborative energy on set. Every film is a step forward, and I’m thrilled to see where this journey takes me next.

What has been your most rewarding experience at NYU Tisch Grad Film?

Being surrounded by such a talented cohort and incredible faculty every day has been invaluable. Our ideas collide and evolve in this creative environment, where we have the freedom to experiment and make mistakes without holding back. This supportive community and space for growth is truly unparalleled.

@lzy234 (instagram)