A Smile to Remember — Excerpt
(Director’s Version, currently in post)
Role: Creative Consultant; Performance Director; Editor (excerpt version)
Short film, Canada, 2025.
This work is part of a collaborative project originally written and produced by Luis F. Dias.
Xueni was involved from early development through production, including:
– script development and structural refinement
– visual concept and shot design
– storyboard development
– directing the actor’s performance through rehearsals and on set
– movement and physical training
– initial editorial exploration and sound direction
The excerpt presented here reflects my own approach to performance, direction, and editorial rhythm, with a focus on spatial shifts in relation to character and psychological progression.
The final version of the film was completed separately by the producer and differs in narrative and editorial decisions.
A still from the project as creative sample.
Cinematographer: May Yi Then.
Red Balloon (2022)
Narrative | 7' 00'' | Non-dialogue | 35mm | 1.33 | Color | Stereo or 5.1
Role: Writer-director (story concept developed in collaboration); Editor.
A photographer observes an old man and tries to understand his love for red colors.
"Mother" (2020)
Drama, Sci-fi | 12'19'' | CZ | Digital | 2.35:1 | Color | Stereo or 5.1
Role: Screenwriter (adapted and reinterpreted for production); Director
Hana, an AI who believes she is pregnant and alone, has to find an escort before she can enter the operation room and begin her abortion.
Beverly Hills Film Festival - Official Selection (2021)
Performance Direction & Movement Coaching
Accepting select commissions for acting coaching and movement training. Specializing in the physical choreography of actors for complex, single-take narratives.
I provide systematic training to bridge the gap between psychological depth and physical execution, ensuring the performer's body becomes a precise instrument for the camera.
Services Include:
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Pre-Production Movement Workshops: Developing a character’s unique physical language and spatial awareness with actors.
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On-Set Coaching: Facilitating high-density performances and aligning movement with cinematic composition. I provide real-time adjustments to ensure emotional beats translate effectively through the actor’s physicality for the frame.
Inquire for project-based rates and availability.