CEO Apple TungFong Creates “eoApp” Giving Platform to Indie Filmmakers to Showcase Wares

It's been said that indie films stand up for outsiders, for rebels, and the vulnerable, for the marginalized and also the dreamers and poets.

Where would we be without independent films that inspire and change us? Eye-opening smaller-budget movies like Lost in Translation, Juno, Whiplash, Moonlight, and then going back to Chariots of Fire, and Rocky—all of which won Oscar awards.

But it’s always a major obstacle for indie or small budgeted movies, to find their audience. Apple TungFong, who’s the founder and CEO of LA-based media company, Entertainment Oxygen (eoApp), recently co-produced, I Am Gitmo, a drama based on true events. The movie just won a Best Actor award at the Marbella Film Festival, while being nominated for best film and director. TungFong was instrumental in securing the final round of funding, and equipment for the film at a much more affordable price, enthusing, “Being an integral part of this process filled me with gratitude. Witnessing how impactful this movie was, and the countless lives it touched, inspired me to continue in the realm of indie film. This experience sparked my passion for promoting films that center around the essence of humanity. It is my goal to inspire and continue to guide indie filmmakers to achieve their dreams. I believe Entertainment Oxygen (eoApp) is the central place to unlock this potential.”

Apple TungFong has previously been involved in putting together the First International Film Festival in China, and as a serial entrepreneur she has co-produced several music and film productions for celebrities such as Taylor Swift, Leonardo DiCaprio, Deadmau5, Daniel Craig, and Chris Hemsworth. She’s also worked with world-iconic music composer Diane Warren on multiple seasonal albums for foreign artists from Hong Kong and China.

Apple TungFong talks to us about several topics, including: the return of movie and TV shows in Hollywood after the writers and actors’ strike; on how the question of AI use is ongoing; the state of independent movies and how the power could shift to indie producers; and, how her new interactive platform (eoApp) allows filmmakers the chance to engage with other creatives.

How happy are you to see the strike over, and your favorite shows and movies coming back online?

I’m a huge lover of movies and TV, and that’s what propelled me to establish a global entertainment company. Entertainment Oxygen. The recent industry strike was undoubtedly a challenging period for everyone involved, I’m glad both parties could reach a peaceful resolution. Although I’m excited to see all the wonderful content coming back online, I’ve found immense joy in exploring the thousands of movies on EO during the entirety of the strike. It is this type of resilience and brilliance that keeps the entertainment industry moving forward. 

What do you know of the SAG solutions to the use of AI to replace human labor, and did we avoid going down that rabbit hole or just delayed it?

The conversation surrounding the use of AI is indeed complex, and SAG has been engaging with these challenges firsthand. As of now, it seems we are navigating these waters cautiously, addressing concerns and ambiguity surrounding the use of AI. It's essential for industry stakeholders to work collaboratively to strike a balance between technological advancements and the protection of human labor rights. The advancements of AI are indeed exciting, but it is important we continue to evaluate these ongoing conversations. 

What has been the effect of the SAG-AFTRA strike on the indie film industry? 

The world of indie film is constantly evolving, and there is no way to predict funding or distribution outcomes. However, the end of the strike introduced fantastic new opportunities for independent filmmakers, actors, and crew members. Introducing better wage increases and protections. I believe this change will bring about a new exploration and excitement for indie film. eoApp’s self-distribution revenue share model addresses these key concerns and builds upon the foundation that SAG has laid for us. Helping put the revenue and power back into independent filmmakers’ hands. 

Apple, how were you instrumental in putting together the first international film festival in China? What does the wonderful emergence of great Asian movies mean to the bigger picture?

I was a consultant in the creation of the festival. I worked with the team to streamline operations and ensure the successful launch of the event. I believe the emergence of the First International Film Festival of China was monumental. It really helped change the landscape for Asia in the global playing field. I believe having China’s voice involved in the global conversation not only helps bring awareness to the depth of film culture within the country but also contributes to a more diverse and inclusive global entertainment industry. 

Could you explain how your new platform can empower indie films and producers?

Entertainment Oxygen (eoApp) provides a global community that empowers entertainers, executives, and all other media professionals to showcase their creative skills, and collaborate from script to screen in ways never before imagined. Our cutting-edge technology has pioneered a streamlined process for film festivals to go hybrid worldwide. eoApp is bringing the realm of indie film to audiences around the world—allowing moviegoers the opportunity to experience the magic of independent filmmaking. Through our interactive platform, filmmakers have the chance to engage with other creatives to unlock their full potential. In simple terms, we are bringing the film festival experience to your homes, your offices, at the gym. We’re also giving indie creators the space to show their work. It’s an entertainment ecosystem.

Check out the platform, Entertainment Oxygen (eoApp), and on Instagram, and Twitter/X.