Oscar Winner Chloé Zhao Opens Up About Being a Neurodivergent Filmmaker

Acclaimed director Chloé Zhao has revealed she is neurodivergent. She made the personal disclosure during a talk at the BFI London Film Festival. The session focused on her celebrated filmmaking career.

Zhao described how her neurodivergence shapes her creative process on set. She explained it gives her a unique ability to connect with actors.

Neurodivergence as a Directorial Superpower

Zhao spoke candidly about her experiences. She said she often felt confused about why she did not fit in. Certain social interactions, like small talk, were always difficult for her.

She described being easily overstimulated because she absorbs vast amounts of information. This includes unconsciously analyzing people’s clothing and predicting their thoughts. According to The Hollywood Reporter, she said she cannot shut this process off.

She now sees this trait as a professional strength. Zhao explained she can recognize patterns and sense dissonance with actors quickly. This allows her to guide performers toward authentic, unscripted moments.

Shaping a Healthier Creative Environment

Zhao reframes her neurodivergence not as a deficit but as a superpower. She questioned if the world has become “too loud, too bright, and too fast” rather than her being atypical. This perspective informs how she builds her film sets.

Her priority is creating a world both on and off camera that is healthy for her. This approach benefits the entire production. It fosters an environment where raw, genuine performances can flourish.

Zhao was in London for the premiere of her new film, Hamnet. The movie stars Paul Mescal and Jessie Buckley. Her revelation provides a deeper understanding of the director behind award-winning films like Nomadland and Eternals.

Her unique perspective is reshaping modern cinema. Chloé Zhao’s journey shows how a neurodivergent filmmaker can turn perceived challenges into unparalleled artistic strengths.

Thought you’d like to know

What is Chloé Zhao best known for?

Chloé Zhao won the Academy Award for Best Director for her film *Nomadland*. She is also known for directing the Marvel blockbuster *Eternals* and her latest project, *Hamnet*.

What did Chloé Zhao say about neurodivergence?

She described it as a superpower that helps her direct actors. Zhao said it makes her highly sensitive to patterns and emotional dissonance, which is invaluable on set.

What is Chloé Zhao’s new movie about?

Her new film, *Hamnet*, explores the life of William Shakespeare and his wife, Agnes. It focuses on their grief following the death of their young son.

How does Zhao’s neurodivergence affect her work?

It allows her to perceive underlying emotions in actors, fostering authentic performances. She uses this sensitivity to create a more intuitive and supportive directing environment.

Why did Zhao direct a Marvel film?

She was drawn to the fantasy elements, aligning with her childhood dream of being a manga artist. Zhao described *Eternals* as an eruption of ideas about the human condition.

Trusted Sources: The Hollywood Reporter, BFI