For many, the journey into a career in the film industry starts from a simple point: curiosity. That is the case for Justin Wu, an emerging sound designer whose open-mindedness helped shape his creative path. From film and TV to gaming, Justin’s persistence and passion for sound led him from Vancouver Film School to industry mentorship programs and, ultimately, to an exciting role at EA. In this Q&A, we asked Justin to share his trajectory so far, how mentorship and networking supported him, and his advice for those looking to break into the world of film and television.
What has your journey into the world of film and TV looked like?
During my time at work, I started thinking about the next steps in my career. One day, while talking with my coworkers and friends, they recommended Vancouver Film School. Several of them had studied there and it helped them advance in their own careers. I’d always wanted to pursue something in audio, especially music, so I decided to apply to the Sound Design program. After being accepted, I left my job and began studying at Vancouver Film School in 2023. I entered the program with little knowledge of audio engineering but an open mind and a strong curiosity. Over the course of a year of intensive training, I discovered the amazing world of sound in the entertainment industry! After graduating, I applied to positions across both film and video games. I also joined the Vancouver Post Alliance Mentorship Program, where I met many like-minded professionals and was paired with an executive mixer at Sharpe Sound Studios. After a year of applying and networking, I finally landed an opportunity with EA, working in audio and movies, an achievement made possible thanks to Vancouver Film School and the incredible connections I built along the way!
Tell us about your experience with Creative Pathways™, and how it helped you along the way.
Creative Pathways™ has been amazing! They’ve been incredibly resourceful and attentive in supporting emerging talent across the industry. Through Creative Pathways™, I was introduced to the Vancouver Post Alliance Mentorship Program, which opened the door to connecting with many industry professionals and expanding my network!
What drew you to sound design? What is the most rewarding aspect of it to you as a creative professional?
The blend of creative and technical, where art and technology meet. Sound builds worlds. It shapes how an audience feels and how they interpret the environment. Take horror films, for example: mute the audio and you lose all the suspense and scare factor. It’s the tension created through sound that makes a horror movie truly terrifying. Lastly, the most rewarding moments in sound design are the big ah-ha discoveries. Whether in film or video games, it’s that electric feeling when something I create gives me goosebumps. If it gives me joy, others can appreciate the art as well. Even though sound is often underappreciated or overlooked, it elevates every experience, no matter the medium. A world without sound is like a body without a soul!
Looking ahead, what kinds of projects or roles are you most excited to pursue?
I think the beauty of being a sound designer lies in the ability to diversify your portfolio, especially when branching into a growing industry like video games. I’m most excited about transitioning into a producer or audio artist role within the gaming world. Though they are competitive, not impossible! Lastly, I’d also love to return to film someday, as I loved the creative process of crafting sound as well!
What would you say to someone who’s thinking about starting a career in film and TV?
Keep applying, no matter what the opportunity is! You never know where it might lead. In the meantime, keep honing your craft and exploring new ways to share your skills with the world. Every step brings you closer to your goals. Don’t be afraid to connect with others and seek feedback, it’s essential for building a stronger mindset and improving your art. As I always remind myself: “Every expert was once a beginner!”
Learn more about Creative Pathways™ programs here.