A Cinematic Masterpiece: Sunny Zhao’s The Gift Emerges as a Standout in Hollywood
- Jessica Ross
- Nov 16
- 4 min read
Updated: Nov 22
By Jessica Ross
The world premiere of Director/Filmmaker Sunny Zhao’s highly anticipated independent film The Gift screened on November 3, 2025 to a packed theater of industry and celebrity guests, making it one of the hottest premieres in Hollywood! More than 350 industry professionals, domestic and international media crews (including Variety who co-sponsored the event), and fashion luminaries attended the unforgettable evening. The premiere feature stunning red carpets extending outdoors in the heart of Hollywood with red and gold décor and a breathtaking 24-foot step-and-repeat for the VIP red carpet and Celebrity arrivals inside.
Executive Producer Phoenix Han looked stunning as she welcomed guests and media at the red carpet.
At the screening, from the very first scene of the film, Zhao’s storytelling and stunning visual cinematic beauty captivated the audience, with an emotional finale.
The premiere was hosted by TV host and comedian Jaime Monroy, whose charisma and lively audience interaction kept the Q&A engaging and full of energy!
Filmmaker/Director Sunny Zhao shared heartfelt insights into his inspiration and creative vision including his own quote at the end of the movie, “Sometimes only melody could say more, and sometimes only love could heal us…”
Zhao was joined on stage by cast members Elyse Dufour (Abigail Philips – Adult Version), Eric Brenner (Adam Cohen), and Jeffrey Klemmer (Harry Philips), who each discussed the depth of their characters and the creative process behind bringing the story to life.
One of the most memorable moments of the night came when Sunny Zhao acknowledged the 25 talented art students, whose paintings were beautifully featured throughout the film. Host Jaime Monroy then invited them to stand and turn towards the audience, introducing each student to a warm round of applause.
At the closing of the Q &A, a special presentation from California Treasurer Fiona Ma’s office, honoring Filmmaker Sunny Zhao with an official certificate recognizing his artistic brilliance, creative vision, and contributions to independent cinema.
Following the screening, guests enjoyed a lavish after-party that included gourmet food catered by a renowned Chinese restaurant. The celebration continued well into midnight as attendees toasted Zhao and the cast and crew’s achievements under the glittering Hollywood skyline and radiant moonlight.
The premiere attendees included Master Eric Lee (Legendary Martial Artist), Ewart Chin (Actor and Film Producer), Anthony Preston (Actor), Jake Miller (Actor), Al Walser (Singer, Grammy Winner), Eve Richards (Actress and Podcast Host), Tamara Clatterbuck (Actress),
McKenzi Brooke (Actress, Singer, Influencer 21M Followers), Larry Namer (E! Co-Founder/Producer), Youssef Guezoum (Film Composer), and Lenore Zann (Voice of Rogue-X-Men ‘97).
Drawing from the fashion world, global fashion icon Sue Wong was in attendance. Hollywood Celebrity Fashion Designer Kiki Wang also attended adding another layer of high-fashion glamour to the evening.
Indie film, music, and streaming community included: Nitish Kannan (Documentary Producer), Ci Zhang (Producer and Writer), Kathy Garver (Actor and Producer), Tiger Sheu (Actor and Stuntman), Nancy Harding (Actress), Jacqueline Murphy (Actress/Producer), Meredith Thomas (Actress, Producer, and Director), Eugenia Kuzmina (Comedian and Model), Chris Grainger (Producer and Musician), James Darius (Global Artist), and Steve Cooke (Singer and Actor).
Honored Guests: Allan Fu, Angel Chu, Anna An, Anthony Hu, Michael and Christine Antonovich, Cindy Pei, Curtis and Wendy Lee, David Liang, Eddy Liu, Emily Wang, Feifei Zhao, Gerald and Diane Wang, Grace Han, Jack Shao, Jessica Gagellgos, Jing Sun, Juliette Zhuo, Lei Wang, Letty Lopez, Omar Gagellgos, Richard Ren, Ruby Au, Samual Kang, ShiPing Zeng, Woody Mu, Xia Yu, Xin Wang, Ying Zhan, and Yue Liu You.
From heartfelt audience reactions to the final standing ovation, one thing was certain, Sunny Zhao’s world premiere was not only a cinematic milestone, but also a cultural celebration of connection, artistry, and community.
About The Gift
Abigail Phillips, a young farm girl from rural America, rises to international fame as a concert pianist, yet she hides a secret. When she was ten, she discovered a mysterious piano hidden deep in the woods. As its incredible history unfolds, the truth proves to be more extraordinary than anyone could imagine. Film will be released in theaters on November 7, 2025. https://thegift-film.com & https://www.imdb.com/title/tt29467147
About the Filmmaker – Sunny ZhaoSunny Zhao is a multi-award-winning film director, cinematographer, editor, and musician known for his visually striking storytelling and artistic sensibility. Bilingual in English and Chinese, he brings cross-cultural depth to his work. Zhao founded the boutique production company Dreams Factory. His body of work spans award-winning commercials, music videos, and his feature film The Gift. Passionate about new challenges and creative collaboration, Zhao continues to evolve his craft and expand his cinematic vision. IG@sunnyzhao88 and https://sunnyzhao.com
The event coordinator and Red Carpet Management by Jackie Lewis PR, Media, and Events.
Heart Of Hollywood Magazine Contributor Jessica Ross:
Since August 2022, Jessica Ross has been a contributor at Heart of Hollywood Magazine. Recent work includes Hollywood Unexpected airing on the XOTV Network digitally and broadcast and a starring role in the upcoming suspense thriller, Mr. Smith. Recently, she was a lead and co-producer in "Chasing Stars", a comedic-drama with an all female cast and crew.
Center Stage, Vegas Unlimited, Indie Activity, Action Magazine, Voyage LA, Cinderella of New York, Juwai, Bizbooast, Heart of Hollywood, JAMO Magazine, Entertainment Network Live, It Can By You, Livein Style Magazine, BuzzFeed and CBS are just a few of the media outlets she has been featured on.
Email: Jessicaross2030@gmail.com
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