Synopsis
After knowing that a recurrent gynecological disease she has might deprive her of fertility, Yilin, a young Chinese woman confronts a sore point between her and her mother during a special visit back home.
Gao Yanghuixiao
GAO is an independent filmmaker based in the U.S., holding a Master’s Degree in Film and Media Art from Emerson College. Her films, focusing on personal growth with a feminine sensibility, have received significant acclaim. Her short film WHAT IF earned official selection at the Oscar-Qualifying HollyShorts Film Festival, Huesca International Film Festival, and the FIAPF-accredited Cinema Jove-Valencia International Film Festival. It also won Best Short Film at the Spello International Film Festival (Italy) and Festival Internacional De Cine Y Multimedia-Fecimu (Argentina). Gaoyang’s previous works have been recognized at the Asian Film Festival, Seattle Asian American Film Festival, Hollywood New Directors, LA Documentary Film Festival, New York City Independent Film Festival, and New York International Film Award.
Director's statement
WHAT IF, is a very personal story for me, because it’s based on a personal experience. I was initially inspired by the personal revelation that there always exists a hidden timeline dictating when the ‘right’ moment for a woman to become a mother is. It is a personal exploration of self-acceptance, reconciliation with my family, and love.
With more and more films bringing attention to abortion, there are barely any movies talking about women’s reproductive health and how it affects their physical and mental
health. I would like to introduce how fertility affects a woman’s life and those around her from a different perspective with WHAT IF.
With this film, I want to thank my mother, who might not understand but is always there for me. And I want to send my love to all the women, who understand what it’s like to suffer from the pain and the fear.
