I often feel like an outsider wherever I go, so I'm always attracted to stories about identity and the meaning of home.

In this quote, Chloe Zhao, the acclaimed filmmaker, reflects on her personal feelings of alienation and how they influence her creative work. By saying she "often feels like an outsider wherever I go," Zhao acknowledges a sense of disconnection from the places or communities she encounters, which may stem from her experiences growing up in different cultures. This feeling of being an outsider likely shapes her understanding of identity and contributes to her exploration of themes like belonging and self-discovery in her films.

Zhao’s attraction to stories about identity and the meaning of home reflects her interest in the complexity of human experiences, particularly those related to place, culture, and personal connection. Her films often explore characters who grapple with their sense of self and their place in the world, especially in environments where they might feel displaced or misunderstood. For Zhao, the concept of home is not just a physical space, but a deep emotional and psychological connection that shapes one’s identity.

The quote also hints at the broader theme of immigration and cultural transition, which is a significant aspect of Zhao’s own life story. As someone who moved from China to study in the United States, Zhao’s experiences with cultural adaptation and the sense of being an outsider likely inform her artistic vision. She seeks to tell stories that resonate with others who feel similarly disconnected, whether due to geographical or emotional reasons.

The origin of this quote is rooted in Zhao’s personal journey and her career as a filmmaker. Known for films like Nomadland and The Rider, Zhao has consistently explored themes of identity and belonging, often focusing on marginalized communities. Her unique perspective, shaped by her own experiences of feeling like an outsider, allows her to craft deeply human stories that examine what it means to find home in a world that can sometimes feel foreign.