Editor’s Note: Welcome to “Reel Women,” our annual tribute to dynamic women in creative industries. For the month of March, let us introduce you to some very special women like Entertainment Oxygen/eoFlix CEO and founder, Apple TungFong.
Apple is a prominent figure in the entertainment industry, serving as the founder and CEO of Entertainment Oxygen (eoFlix), a leading Los Angeles-based media company. Known for its role as a trusted streaming partner for film festivals, eoFlix specializes in facilitating the hybrid showcasing of indie films, providing a platform for emerging filmmakers to reach wider audiences.
Prior to establishing Entertainment Oxygen in 2019, Apple held the position of senior vice president at Legacy Pictures, where she played a pivotal role in shaping the company’s direction and overseeing various projects. With a diverse background in production, Apple has garnered extensive experience in the entertainment sector.
One of Apple’s notable achievements includes her collaboration with world-renowned music composer Diane Warren on multiple seasonal albums for foreign artists hailing from Hong Kong and China. Her involvement in these projects has contributed to the international recognition of these artists and their music.
In addition to her work in music production, Apple has also made significant contributions to the global film industry. She played a key role in organizing the first international film festival in China, highlighting her commitment to promoting cultural exchange and fostering artistic collaboration on a global scale.
She’s a graduate of the University of Hong Kong, where she honed her skills and knowledge in the field of entertainment.
Let’s meet Apple!
What’s your origin story?
My childhood was marked by a constant cycle of moving every few months to various locations, always within the vicinity of diverse military bases. I grew up in Hong Kong in a military family. This upbringing instilled in me a strong sense of discipline and an exceptional ability to adapt to my ever-changing surroundings.
How did you get into the entertainment industry?
I never explicitly planned on ending up in entertainment. My story is a true testament to the saying, “What is meant for you will not miss you.” I just happened to be in the right place at the right time, and was introduced to a well known Hollywood producer. After chatting for a bit, we really hit it off. He went on to introduce me to some of his industry connections and the rest is history!
Who were your mentors?
Ted Field, Phillip Rosen, and Diane Warren were all instrumental in my career path. Each guided me along the way, as I continued to work hard to achieve my dreams.
While there will be others, what do you consider your biggest achievement to date?
I’ve been an entrepreneur since the age of 19. It’s been a lifelong journey to achieve milestones throughout my career. Always trying to improve, and aim for something bigger in the hopes it pays off. Truly, I am the proudest of Entertainment Oxygen. The global potential for my company to fix a broken system and connect creatives around the world is something I hold close to my heart. It’s my biggest achievement to date, and I’m sure Entertainment Oxygen will only continue to surprise me as we grow over the years.
What drives you to create?
At 16, a family friend of mine entrusted me with a copy of The Art of War. The book left an immeasurable mark on my life. It’s been a driving force in my creativity and strategic thinking. I’m eternally grateful for having read that book! It’s impacted the way I approach my business and life overall.
What is a product or service you dream of doing a campaign for?
Of course, eoFlix! I want to help bring indie films to the world. Who else to do a better campaign than the CEO herself! I truly believe eoFlix will be at the forefront of the entertainment industry within just a few years.
Who are you dying to work with?
Steven Spielberg! His work is unique and gives stories a second life on the big screen, exceeding our expectations and making us envision a world beyond our own. Steven, call me!
Award you crave, but haven’t won
I’ve honestly never thought about this! Truly, I don’t crave or do what I do for awards. I’ve created a platform because I saw a gap in our business and wanted to create a solution. I love leading my company. If there’s an award I would crave – it would be seeing our platform reach millions of viewers all over the world. Providing a singular platform where creatives can connect and grow together.
Coffee, Lunch or Happy Hour
Coffee – Julianne Moore, she said something at the Venice Film Festival that has always stuck with me, “There are many ways to display art. Technology is constantly changing to keep up with it. However, art remains authentic no matter the format it is displayed in.”
Lunch – Julia Roberts, because she’s a Mahjong master!
Happy Hour – Dany Garcia, I’ve loved watching her career as a business woman. She has an amazing track record, and I’d love to get drinks with her!
It’s an election year, what is keeping you up at night?
I’m concerned about the integrity of our electoral process and ensuring fair and secure elections. With technology rapidly evolving, I’m sure the concerns around the arena of voting will continue to be in discussion.
Favorite movie and TV show of 2023
My favorite movie of 2023 is The Sound of Freedom. The film did a beautiful job of examining a major global crisis that has been plaguing our world for centuries now; human trafficking. I don’t have much time to watch tv shows these days, but I hear all the chatter from all my close friends.
Band or singer you would ditch your career and go perform with
Imagine Dragons – I love the way their live sets look. The drums, and the energy they bring to every performance really moves
What’s your theme song for 2024?
The Love Theme from The Godfather soundtrack, helps me feel like I can overcome anything!
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