Introduction

Chloe Zhao is a Chinese-American filmmaker and theater director. She was born in Shanghai, China, in 1982, and later studied theater at New York University. Zhao made her directorial debut with the 2018 film “Songs My Mother Told Me,” which premiered at the Sundance Film Festival and was later released by A24. Our director is best known for her work in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, directing the successful films “Black Widow” and “Eternals,” and is currently shooting the upcoming movie “Thor: Love and Thunder.”

chloe zhao biography

Aspect	Details
Full Name	Chloé Zhao (born Zhao Ting)
Date of Birth	March 31, 1982
Birthplace	Beijing, China
Debut Film	Songs My Brothers Taught Me (2015)
Notable Films	Nomadland (2020), The Rider (2017), Eternals (2021)
Awards	Oscars for Best Director and Best Picture (Nomadland), Golden Lion at Venice Film Festival (Nomadland), Golden Globe for Best Director (Nomadland), numerous other awards
Education	Studied politics and film studies at Mount Holyoke College, Graduate Film Program at NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts
Influences	Wong Kar-wai, Spike Lee, Ang Lee, Werner Herzog, Terrence Malick
Personal Life	Currently resides in Topatopa Mountains in Ojai, California with partner and cinematographer Joshua James Richards
Upcoming Projects	Untitled Bass Reeves biopic, Dracula adaptation, sequel to Eternals (in development)

chloe zhao wiki

Chloé Zhao, born Zhao Ting on March 31, 1982, is a renowned Chinese-born filmmaker celebrated for her contributions to independent cinema. She made her directorial debut with Songs My Brothers Taught Me (2015), earning critical acclaim and a nomination for the Independent Spirit Award for Best First Feature. Her second film, The Rider (2017), also received widespread praise and nominations.

However, it was Zhao’s groundbreaking work on the western film Nomadland (2020) that propelled her to international acclaim. The film not only won prestigious awards like the Golden Lion at the Venice Film Festival but also secured four Academy Award nominations. In a historic achievement, Zhao clinched the Oscars for Best Picture and Best Director, making her the first woman of color to achieve the latter. She further solidified her directorial prowess by winning awards at the Directors Guild of America, Golden Globe Awards, and British Academy Film Awards.

Chloé Zhao continued her trailblazing career by venturing into the Marvel Cinematic Universe, co-writing and directing Eternals (2021). Her unique storytelling and directorial style continue to make a significant impact on the cinematic landscape.

chloé zhao Childhood & Early Life

Chloé Zhao, born Zhao Ting on March 31, 1982, in Beijing, China, is a trailblazing Chinese-born filmmaker known for her outstanding contributions to independent cinema. Her remarkable journey began with her debut feature, Songs My Brothers Taught Me (2015), which premiered at the Sundance Film Festival, earning critical acclaim and a nomination for the Independent Spirit Award for Best First Feature.

Zhao continued to captivate audiences with her second feature, The Rider (2017), receiving critical acclaim and nominations for the Independent Spirit Award for Best Film and Best Director.

However, it was her groundbreaking work on the western film Nomadland (2020) that catapulted her to international recognition. The film secured numerous accolades, including the Golden Lion at the Venice Film Festival and the People’s Choice Award at the Toronto International Film Festival. At the Academy Awards, Zhao made history by winning Best Picture and Best Director, becoming the first woman of color to achieve the latter. Her achievements extended to directing awards at the Directors Guild of America, Golden Globe Awards, and British Academy Film Awards.

In 2021, Chloé Zhao ventured into the Marvel Cinematic Universe, co-writing and directing Eternals, showcasing her versatility across genres.

Early in life, Zhao exhibited a rebellious spirit, drawn to Western pop culture influences. Despite language barriers, her parents sent her to Brighton College at the age of 15. She later moved to Los Angeles, attended Los Angeles High School, and pursued a major in politics and a minor in film studies at Mount Holyoke College. Graduating in 2005, she explored odd jobs, realizing her passion for storytelling through people’s lives. This realization led her to film school at New York University’s Tisch School of the Arts, studying under director Spike Lee. Zhao’s journey continued as she enrolled in the Graduate Studies film program at NYU in 2010, creating her first short film, Daughters.

Chloé Zhao’s unique approach to storytelling and her ability to connect with diverse audiences make her an influential figure in the world of cinema.

chloé zhao Family & Personal Life\

Chloé Zhao lives in the peaceful Topatopa Mountains in Ojai, California, with her partner and cinematographer, Joshua James Richards. They first connected while Zhao was working on her debut film, Songs My Brother Taught Me, and Richards was a film student at NYU. Their collaboration continued through Zhao’s next two films, and Richards even served as the camera operator for Marvel’s Eternals.

In an Elle article, Richards described Zhao as “gnarly and extreme,” capturing the unique and adventurous spirit that brought them together during their film school days. This creative duo has turned their home into a haven for artistic collaboration, where each project becomes a shared journey of storytelling and pushing creative limits.

chloé zhao husband

Chloé Zhao has chosen the serene Topatopa Mountains in Ojai, California, as her home. She shares this picturesque haven with her partner and cinematographer, Joshua James Richards. Together, they’ve turned their residence into a creative sanctuary, where the scenic surroundings inspire their artistic collaboration.

chloé zhao Career

Chloé Zhao’s Journey in Filmmaking:

Chloé Zhao kicked off her filmmaking journey with the 2009 short film “The Atlas Mountains,” exploring the passionate encounter between Helen Thomas and an immigrant worker fixing her computer. Her second short film, “Daughters” (2010), delves into the story of 14-year-old Maple in rural China, breaking free from an arranged marriage.

In 2015, Zhao directed her debut feature, “Songs My Brothers Taught Me,” portraying the struggles of a Lakota Sioux brother and sister on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation. The film, part of the U.S. Dramatic Competition at Sundance, highlighted real community lives.

Her 2017 film, “The Rider,” a contemporary western drama, follows a young cowboy’s self-discovery after a near-fatal accident. Zhao engaged non-actors living on a ranch, offering a fresh perspective on the Western genre.

“Nomadland” (2018), her third feature, stars Frances McDormand in a journey of self-discovery across the American West. Premiering at Venice Film Festival, it won the Golden Lion and the People’s Choice Award at TIFF. Zhao earned the Golden Globe for Best Director, a historic achievement.

In 2021, Zhao ventured into the Marvel Cinematic Universe with “Eternals,” infusing her unique style into the superhero genre. Despite mixed reviews, the film secured a significant box office success.

Awards Season Triumphs:

In 2021, Chloe Zhao made history with 34 directing, 13 screenplay, and 9 editing awards, surpassing the modern-era record. Her influence landed her on the Time 100 list of the world’s most influential people.

Upcoming Projects:

Zhao’s diverse projects include a historical Western on Bass Reeves, a futuristic sci-fi western Dracula adaptation, and an executive producer role on “The Graduates.”

Themes and Approach:

Zhao’s filmmaking style involves capturing real stories, emphasizing authenticity and connection. She values the feminine perspective, striving to balance and showcase both feminine and masculine strengths in characters. Her upcoming projects continue to reflect this unique approach to storytelling.

chloé zhao net worth

Navigating the realms of fortune, Chloé Zhao’s net worth has ascended to an estimated $20 million as of 2023. This remarkable financial milestone echoes her prowess in the world of cinema, where her creative brilliance converges with substantial financial success. Beyond the cinematic canvas, Zhao’s journey unfolds, marked by both artistic excellence and a burgeoning wealth profile.

Social Media

chloé zhao instagram

Chloe zhao (@chloezhao).

chloé zhao movies

chloé zhao dracula

Chloé Zhao is a talented filmmaker who has directed several successful films, including “Cold War,” “Eternals,” and “Song to Song.” She has also been announced as the director of the upcoming superhero film, “Batgirl.”

However, it is not clear what the role of Chloé Zhao in the film “Dracula” would be. There have been no official announcements to date, as “Dracula” is a fictional character and the film has not been confirmed for production.

chloé zhao eternals

“Eternals,” a 2021 Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) installment, explores the ancient history of immortal alien beings known as the Eternals, who resurface to protect Earth from their adversaries, the Deviants. Directed by Chloé Zhao, the film boasts an ensemble cast, including Gemma Chan, Richard Madden, Kumail Nanjiani, Lia McHugh, Brian Tyree Henry, Lauren Ridloff, Barry Keoghan, Don Lee, Kit Harington, Salma Hayek, and Angelina Jolie.

Marvel Studios President Kevin Feige revealed the Eternals project in April 2018, focusing on the group’s existence throughout human history. Ryan and Kaz Firpo crafted the initial script, with Zhao joining as the director in September. Zhao, granted substantial creative freedom, infused her unique style, drawing inspiration from Terrence Malick’s films. The film’s production, from July 2019 to February 2020, utilized various locations, including Pinewood Studios and the Canary Islands.

Premiering at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood on October 18, 2021, “Eternals” hit theaters in the United States on November 5 as part of Phase Four of the MCU. While the film grossed $402 million globally, it received mixed reviews, marking the first MCU film to garner less favorable critiques. The screenplay and pacing faced scrutiny, though some commendations were directed towards the film’s themes and visuals.

chloé zhao pronunciation

Chloe Zhao is a Chinese-American filmmaker born on July 30, 1989. Despite her name, she is frequently confused with the Korean actress Chloe Moretz. For Chloe Zhao: her last name is pronounced “zhay-oh” and her first name is pronounced “chlo-ay” (rhyming with “lo-eye”).

Award

chloé zhao oscar

Chloé Zhao’s film “Daughters” (2010) earned acclaim, securing First Place Student Live Action Short at the 2010 Palm Springs International Short Fest and a Special Jury Prize at the 2010 Cinequest Film Festival.

In 2021, Zhao’s masterpiece “Nomadland” (2020) made history, clinching the Academy Award for Best Picture and Best Directing. The film’s remarkable journey continued with victories at the Golden Globe Awards for Best Director, the BAFTA Awards for Best Direction and Best Film, and the Independent Spirit Awards for Best Director and Best Editing. Additionally, “Nomadland” claimed the Critic’s Choice Movie Awards for Best Adapted Screenplay and Best Director. This impressive sweep solidified Zhao’s impact on the cinematic landscape.

Chloe Zhao Facts

How did the Academy Awards start?

In a historic moment etched in time, the inaugural Academy Awards unfolded on May 16, 1929, at the elegant Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel. The intimate gathering, attended by approximately 270 guests, marked the birth of an iconic tradition. Following the ceremony, the festivities continued at the Mayfair Hotel, setting the stage for the legendary post-awards celebration. Astonishingly, the coveted tickets for this cinematic night were priced at a mere $5, a value that translates to $85 in 2020 prices, underscoring the modest beginnings of this now-glamorous affair.

Where are the Academy Awards held?

Since the cinematic year of 2002, the illustrious Dolby Theatre™, formerly known as the Kodak Theatre, has served as the iconic venue for the Academy Awards. Nestled within the Hollywood and Highland Center®, this glamorous setting has witnessed the recognition of outstanding talent in the film industry. In that inaugural year at the Dolby Theatre™, a total of 15 statuettes took center stage, honoring excellence across various categories, with a notable spotlight on achievements in Directing and Writing. The tradition of celebrating cinematic brilliance continues to unfold in this legendary Hollywood locale.

What are some interesting facts about Chloe Zhao?

Chloe Zhao is a Chinese-American filmmaker and director. She was born on July 12, 1985, in Shanghai, China. Zhao studied directing at NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts and is best known for her critically acclaimed films “Songs My Mother Sang” and “The Rider.” She also directed the Marvel film “Eternals,” making her the first Asian woman to direct a major studio superhero film. She is known for her unique storytelling and her ability to connect with her characters.

FAQ For Chloé Zhao

Which Chinese female director won an Oscar?

Chloé Zhao made history by winning the Academy Award for Best Picture and Best Directing in 2021 for her film “Nomadland” (2020). This remarkable achievement solidified her status as the first Chinese female director to receive an Oscar in these prestigious categories. Additionally, her earlier work, the short film “Daughters” (2010), claimed top honors at the 2010 Palm Springs International Short Fest and earned a Special Jury Prize at the 2010 Cinequest Film Festival. Chloé Zhao’s trailblazing success continues to leave an indelible mark on the world of cinema.

What did Chloe Zhao do?

Chloé Zhao made cinematic history with her groundbreaking achievement. In 2020, her film “Nomadland” earned her the distinction of being the first person of color to win the Academy Award for Best Director. Born to a father who was an executive in the steel industry and later delved into real estate and equity investment, and a mother who worked in healthcare, Zhao’s journey reflects a unique blend of personal background and professional success. Her storytelling prowess and directorial talent have not only reshaped the landscape of filmmaking but also shattered barriers, paving the way for a more inclusive and diverse cinematic world.

Where did Chloé Zhao go to college?

Chloé Zhao pursued her education at Mount Holyoke College, where she majored in politics and minored in film studies, graduating in 2005.

Who won 3 Oscars for director?

Frank Capra achieved a remarkable feat in the history of the Oscars by winning three Academy Awards for Best Director. His triumphant moments came with the films “It Happened One Night” (1934), “Mr. Deeds Goes to Town” (1936), and “You Can’t Take It with You” (1938). Capra’s exceptional contribution to cinema, marked by these three directorial victories, solidified his legacy as a master storyteller and a three-time Oscar recipient. Notably, his impact resonates alongside the achievements of other iconic directors, adding a unique chapter to the rich tapestry of Academy Awards history.