Decoupling

In cosmology, “decoupling” describes a phase in the evolution of the universe when different types of particles cease to interact thermally. In contemporary geopolitical discourse, however, the term has come to describe the growing separation between China and the United States. For my family, “decoupling” meant being separated from my daughter for two years. For many Chinese immigrants, it also evokes the painful rupture between the country they were born in and the place they now call home.Immigrant experiences often remain unseen and unheard, pushed to the margins of public discourse. I felt compelled to make a film about my own journey because I wanted my voice—and the voices of others with similar experiences—to be heard. Through this film, I hope to reach those who have endured similar forms of separation and remind them that they are not alone. Together, our individual stories form a resilient and interconnected community. By bringing these experiences into view, I hope to illuminate an overlooked part of our shared history and help fill the gaps in our collective narrative.I envision this film as a bridge: a way to create understanding and connection with audiences who may be unfamiliar with immigrant and Asian American experiences but are genuinely open to learning. Through storytelling, I hope to cultivate empathy, challenge stereotypes, and deepen our appreciation for the complexity and diversity of human experience.