Director Yi Zhou tells The Daily about her buzzy new documentary, In Between Stars and Scars: Masters of Cinema, which puts a spotlight on the film world’s lesser known stars. She tells us what to expect and how Cameron Crowe became a part of this important project.
What’s the premise of the new movie?
The film, In Between Stars and Scars: Masters of Cinema, explores the often-hidden world of cinema’s artisans — the editors, production designers, cinematographers, and other essential crew members who contribute their vision and creativity behind the scenes. It aims to uncover the stories, challenges, and triumphs of these dedicated individuals who bring cinematic dreams to life. Audiences usually know the faces of actors and directors, but this documentary gives insight into the entire collaborative process, showing how it truly takes a village to make a film. I wanted to create a documentary that not only educates but also inspires, revealing the interconnected artistry that creates movie magic.
Who are some of the names we’ll see in the film?
We’re thrilled to feature some iconic names in cinema, including Cameron Crowe, who brings his perspective as a seasoned director, and legendary cinematographers like Robert Richardson and Vittorio Storaro. The documentary also highlights the contributions of Oscar-winning production designer Dante Ferretti, esteemed editor Thom Noble, and acclaimed hair designer Giorgio Gregorini, among others. Each of these individuals has an incredible legacy and a wealth of experience to share, making this project a rare assembly of cinema’s finest talents. By bringing them all together, the film offers an unprecedented look into the minds and experiences of those who shape every frame and scene.”
Why did you want to do a film focusing on the below-the-line talent?
As someone who has worked in various aspects of the creative process, I deeply admire the artists and craftspeople whose work is often unseen but absolutely essential. Their efforts can go unnoticed because the focus tends to be on the actors and directors. I wanted to change that narrative and offer a tribute to those who embody passion and precision in every detail, from set design to lighting, from hair and makeup to sound. Their commitment to their craft is an art form in itself, and I believe audiences deserve to see the dedication, resilience, and innovation they bring to each project. This documentary is a way to recognize and celebrate their contributions while expanding the public’s appreciation of cinema as a true collaborative art form.
What was your biggest challenge directing?
Directing this documentary involved a unique challenge: finding the balance between showcasing each artisan’s story and crafting a cohesive narrative that ties them all together. Each person I interviewed had such a compelling, unique perspective, so it was difficult to decide which moments to highlight while ensuring every voice was authentically represented. Assembling the individual stories into a unified narrative required an intense level of attention and sensitivity. I wanted each artist’s essence to come through without overshadowing others, and maintaining that balance was both the most challenging and rewarding part of directing this film.
How did Cameron Crowe get involved?
Cameron Crowe’s involvement was truly serendipitous and brought a special depth to the project. As a director who holds a deep respect for the behind-the-scenes talent, Cameron has a remarkable appreciation for what goes into crafting each moment on screen. When he learned about the documentary’s focus, he was immediately interested in contributing. His insights add another layer of richness to the film because he understands the artistry of filmmaking from multiple angles — as a writer, a director, and an admirer of the craft. His respect for the collaborative process and his own experiences working closely with talented crew members make his contributions particularly impactful.
Yi Zhou and Cameron Crowe
How does it feel to have awards buzz around the film?
It’s incredibly humbling to see this project resonate with people, especially those in the industry who understand the vision behind it. The awards buzz is a testament to the importance of highlighting the often-overlooked contributors to cinema. While any recognition is gratifying, the most meaningful part is knowing that this documentary has the potential to open conversations about the vital role of below-the-line talent in the industry. My goal was to bring attention to these unsung heroes, so the fact that it’s gaining attention validates that people are eager to see this side of filmmaking and appreciate the countless hands that bring films to life.
How can people find the film to watch it?
We’re excited to announce that In Between Stars and Scars: Masters of Cinema will have a theatrical release starting November 29, which you can watch at Laemmle Theaters. You can find details and reserve tickets at Laemmle’s website. For those who prefer to stream from home, the film will be available on various streaming platforms starting from Christmas. Additionally, we have two special Masters of Cinema events listed on Eventbrite, where audiences can join us for a deeper discussion around the film and celebrate its journey. Follow our social media and official website for more details as we get closer to these dates.
Do you plan to direct more? What other kinds of stories do you want to tell?
Absolutely, I have a deep passion for storytelling, especially narratives that connect diverse cultural, historical, and creative perspectives. I want to continue exploring stories that are both visually and emotionally engaging, whether they delve into human resilience, artistic innovation, or the ways in which technology and art intersect. Future projects will certainly be influenced by my love for complex, multifaceted stories that encourage viewers to see the world in a new way. I’m particularly interested in narratives that bridge cultural divides and showcase voices that are often underrepresented or overlooked. There’s so much potential in cinema to inspire and educate, and I look forward to creating more films that celebrate the depth and diversity of the human experience.
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