In the latest episode of Gent’s Talk (Episode 125, Season 9), multi-award-winning photographer turned film director Justin Wu opened up about his journey in the entertainment industry, his evolving sense of identity, and the deeply personal experiences that shaped his storytelling. With an impressive resume that includes collaborations with global stars like Simu Liu, Jeremy Irons, and Selena Gomez, Wu has rapidly established himself as a force in film and television. But as he shared with host Samir Moran, his ascent has been anything but linear.
From photography to directing: mastering the art of storytelling
Wu’s path to film wasn’t conventional. Originally recognized for his work as a celebrity and fashion photographer, he transitioned into directing, bringing his signature cinematic style to television and now, his first feature film. Reflecting on his rapid rise, Wu admitted that imposter syndrome frequently crept in, especially when directing industry veterans.
“I got into this business relatively quickly, and often I’d be in rooms where everyone had more experience than me,” Wu said. “But I had to remind myself—if they chose me for this project, it’s because they saw something in me. They believed I could do this.”
His approach to overcoming doubt? Looking at tangible reminders of his journey. Wu keeps set props and personalized director’s chair backs as mementos, visual proof of how far he’s come. “Seeing those milestones reinforces that I earned my place here,” he said.
A key theme throughout Wu’s career is the exploration of identity. Raised in Canada by immigrant parents, he grew up feeling disconnected from his heritage and often struggled to understand his family’s past. Ironically, it was through directing that he began piecing together his own story.
“When you’re working with actors, you spend so much time understanding their characters, their motivations, their pasts,” Wu explained. “Through that process, I started to reflect more on my own identity. It’s something that’s constantly evolving.”
He emphasized that vulnerability is essential in filmmaking, both on screen and behind the scenes. “If I expect actors to open up, I need to do the same,” he said. “That’s how trust is built.”
A deeply personal lesson from his father
One of the most poignant moments in Wu’s conversation was his reflection on his father’s battle with terminal cancer. That experience profoundly shaped his perspective on life, legacy, and storytelling.
“At first, the diagnosis was overwhelming,” Wu recalled. “But then, time became finite. When doctors said he had days left, that urgency changed everything. He started opening up about things he had never shared before.”
Wu, in turn, shared his own struggles and personal experiences with his father, something he had hesitated to do for years. “Once I showed my vulnerability, he did the same. And that led to conversations I never thought we’d have.”
His father ultimately reached a point where he said, “This is as far as I go. This is what I want you to live with.” For Wu, that closure was invaluable. “I don’t have regrets because I know we reached the end of that road together.”
The journey to his first feature film
Wu’s debut feature film, set to release on Tubi this fall, is a culmination of everything he’s learned—from directing top-tier TV shows like Kim’s Convenience to working with actors such as James Van Der Beek and Deborah Cox. He described the moment he was officially chosen as the film’s director as surreal.
“You go through this long process—reading scripts, pitching your vision, waiting for the call,” he said. “And when they finally say, ‘We want you,’ it’s overwhelming. But that’s when the real work begins.”
Wu’s film explores themes of ambition, loss, and love, and features a cast that he describes as “a dream come true.”
“The most challenging scenes are the ones that require emotional depth. You have to make sure your actors trust you enough to go there,” he said. “And that means being honest about your own journey.”
Framing the future
For Wu, the journey is far from over. With more projects in development, he remains committed to pushing creative boundaries and telling stories that matter. When asked what he’d say to his father if he could show him everything he’s accomplished, Wu’s answer was simple: “I’d want him to know I made it. That I’m okay.”
As Gent’s Talk continues to highlight industry leaders like Wu, one thing is clear—his story is still unfolding, and the best may be yet to come.
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Gent’s Talk, season 9 episode 126 with Justin Wu, is presented by Angel’s Envy
The Gent’s Talk podcast is proudly presented by Angel’s Envy, Canada’s #1 super-premium bourbon. Season 9, episode 126 is now available to stream on all podcast platforms including, Youtube, Spotify, Apple iTunes/Podcasts, Goodpods, iHeartRadio, Audible, Amazon Music and Google Podcasts! Seasons 1-8 are now on board Air Canada flights via the in-flight entertainment system, with limitations on select aircraft types. Please make sure to like, follow and subscribe. Your continued support throughout this journey is greatly appreciated.
