NOSTALGIA TRANSPLANT, 6min, USA
Directed by Yuxing Xu
In a future world where people archive history as interactive virtual reality experiences called “Vistories,” "Nostalgia Transplant" introduces the "Vistorian" to relive the LA river's historical stages. His emotional journey reveals a perplexing choice: to preserve a distorted river in the digital realm. Is it sanctuary, manipulation, or a reflection of his story?

Get to know the filmmaker:

1. What motivated you to make this film?
I've been really into the cinematic history of the LA River and how VR tech is changing our lives. Movies such as "Point Blank" (1967), "Grease" (1978), and "Drive" (2011), which feature scenes in LA River, have been a big influence on me. And there were days when I was driving past and walking along the dry riverbed near the new 6th street bridge construction site, seeing the homeless folks around, it just clicked in my mind to create this film and help expand the rich narratives of the LA River.

2. From the idea to the finished product, how long did it take for you to make this film?
It took nearly a year to complete this film, with the last month dedicated to sound & music with my friend Santiago Amézquita, a truly talented music composer

3. How would you describe your film in two words!?
Nostalgic, Futuristic

4. What was the biggest obstacle you faced in completing this film?
Time-Management as I had to balance my school commitments with personal time devoted to independently producing the film.

5. What were your initial reactions when watching the audience talking about your film in the feedback video?
It really got me feeling warm and fuzzy inside. It made me happy to see that all the effort I put into making the film was worth it. It just confirmed that I want to keep making more films.

6. When did you realize that you wanted to make films?
During the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020-2021 while pursuing my architecture master's at SCI-Arc, the shift to online learning exposed me to various digital tools. All of this inspires me to explore the creative potential of storytelling via digital films.

7. What film have you seen the most in your life?
"Mirror" (1975) by Andrei Tarkovsky

8. What other elements of the festival experience can we and other festivals implement to satisfy you and help you further your filmmaking career?
More networking opportunities among filmmakers would definitely help a lot, but so far I'm happy with the LA Feedback Festival's offerings.

9. You submitted to the festival via FilmFreeway. How has your experiences been working on the festival platform site?
I found it to be a very convenient and good tool for filmmakers. I appreciate the platform's handy interface, search tools, and the ability to see other filmmakers' feedback and ratings.

10. What is your favorite meal?
Ramen or Rice Noodles I guess?

11. What is next for you? A new film?
Yes, I'm currently in the post-production phase of my next film: "La Jetee(VR)," a VR adaptation of the 1967 French sci-fi classic, and it’s set in a fictional L.A.