Filmmaker Yukiko Cho has been selected as the Director of Photography for the upcoming science fiction feature film 'Whispers of Water', a project that promises to explore complex environmental themes through a visually compelling narrative. The film, directed by Shahan Rao, will begin principal photography on March 30, 2025, and centers on a young woman's desperate quest to find water in a post-apocalyptic world.
Set in the year 3000 on a planet nearly consumed by sand, the story follows Asuka, who undertakes a dangerous journey into underground territories to secure water for her ailing grandmother. Cho's appointment to the project represents a significant advancement in her already distinguished cinematography career, bringing her extensive festival-recognized experience to a feature film production.
Cho's professional portfolio includes multiple critically acclaimed short films that have received international recognition. Her short film 'KANOJO' (2023) garnered six nominations at the Toronto International Nollywood Film Festival, while 'One Sun' (2022) secured nominations for Best Cinematography and Best Short Film. Her work has been featured in prestigious festivals including the Diversity in Cannes Short Film & Webseries Showcase and the LA Shorts International Film Festival.
The film's production team includes other notable talents such as Anna Buksowicz as Production Designer and features accomplished actors like Lee Chen and Yazon Angela Lin. Cho's role will be critical in translating director Shahan Rao's vision, coordinating camera, lighting, and grip departments to create a visually immersive experience.
The selection of Cho for this project highlights the film industry's increasing recognition of diverse talent and innovative storytelling. 'Whispers of Water' appears poised to offer a thought-provoking exploration of environmental scarcity and human resilience, leveraging Cho's distinctive visual storytelling approach to bring its dystopian world to life.
