A transracial adoptee confronts her childhood in her very vulnerable, poignant and insightful search for identity.

Director Biography - Madeline Rose McSteen

I, Maddie McSteen, am in my fifth and final year pursuing a dual degree in Moving-Image Production, with a minor in Film Studies, and Spanish at The Ohio State University. I am motivated by my passion for minority representation in media, both in front of and behind the camera. My background in fiction and experimental filmmaking constitutes an important asset in my approach to push the boundaries of form in nonfiction films. I strive to use my newfound passion for nonfiction filmmaking to connect communities of diverse backgrounds and create mutually fulfilling relationships. My goals in filmmaking are to provoke a range of complex and abstract emotional responses from the audience, to elicit important conversations, usually around social issues, and make underrepresented groups feel seen, empowered, and appreciated. I often aim to challenge the thinking of my audience through implicit themes and messages.

The bulk of my work often consists of addressing intersectional diverse experiences or social justice issues of minority groups. I utilize my ability to make art as a method to process, portray, and reflect upon the deeply nuanced experiences I have lived as a bisexual transracially adopted Chinese woman and their effects on my mental health. Moreover, I find it most rewarding when I can use my filmmaking skills to collaborate with other minorities in expressing their own experiences and creating something meaningful for their communities to connect upon.

My plans are to continue my work in community-based nonfiction films in the near future by continuing my search for meaningful engagement with people and cultures all over the world – primarily Central/South America and Asia, after graduation.

Director Statement

This project is the culmination of being the most vulnerable I have ever been with myself & those closest to me.

My work often consists of narrative fiction addressing experiences or social justice issues of minority groups. I utilize my ability to make art as a method to process, portray, & reflect upon the experiences I've lived as a bisexual transracially adopted Chinese woman with mental health challenges. Moreover, I find the most fulfillment in using my filmmaking skills to collaborate with other minorities in expressing their own experiences & creating something meaningful for their communities.