Janelle Kung
Video Editor + Motion Graphics Designer
TanTao Video Essays
These are Vox-style explainer videos published on YouTube that transform complex concepts into engaging visual narratives. For each piece, I am responsible for translating the written transcript into visuals by sourcing compelling footage, creating custom vector artwork in Illustrator, animating in After Effects, and bringing everything together in Premiere Pro through editing and sound design. Topics range from psychology to media critique, like Asian American representation and sci-fi and technology.​
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IFS and Pop Culture:
The Mind is Naturally Multiple
Explores Richard Schwartz’s Internal Family Systems model, showing how the mind is naturally composed of multiple “parts” that interact with each other. Uses examples from Inside Out, The Boys, and The Joy Luck Club to illustrate these abstract psychological concepts.
Avatar vs American Dragon:
Asian Representation
Juxtaposes children's television shows, Avatar: The Last Airbender and American Dragon, to highlight how Avatar draws authentically from Asian traditions and philosophies, while American Dragon relies on stereotypes and shallow portrayals.
The Psychology of Inner Speech
Examines the science of inner speech, explaining Lev Vygotsky's theory, the difference between internal dialogue and monologue, and how inner speech differs across individuals. Covers the brain regions involved, cognitive functions supported by inner speech, and mental experiences, like ADHD and autism.
Oryx and Crake:
The Art of Withholding
Analyzes how Margaret Atwood’s Oryx and Crake withholds key details to create suspense and immersion. Shows how delayed description and indirect world-building shift focus toward story, proving that “less is more” strengthens narrative impact.
Frank Sinatra and TikTok's Hopecore Movement
Investigates how TikTok’s hopecore trend reinterprets Frank Sinatra’s “My Way” as an anthem of resilience and underdog triumphs. Connects Sinatra’s iconic individuality with modern collective hope through uplifting video edits.