The Hollywood machine is made up of hundreds of high powered executives who make the tough decisions that bring you your favorite television and movies that you love to watch. We spoke to Daemon Hillin, CEO of Hillin Entertainment based in Los Angeles CA who has produced over 30 films and is a power player producer in Hollywood. Let’s get some insight from his experience in the movie business.
Beverly Hills Magazine: What is your opinion of “Hollywood”?
Daemon Hillin: Hollywood is a constantly evolving market with its own distinct character. Just when you think you’ve grasped its trends, it surprises you with unexpected shifts. The upheavals of the past year, including strikes and changes in the domestic market, serve as poignant reminders of this reality. Navigating Hollywood demands not only insight but also flexibility and perseverance.
Beverly Hills Magazine: What are some trends taking place in Hollywood at this time?
Daemon Hillin: In today’s Hollywood, there’s a notable shift towards budget-conscious productions due to the softness in the domestic market. This trend is leading to a focus on quality storytelling, diversification of content, and strategic investments in rev-share-based business models.
Beverly Hills Magazine: How do you foresee the growth of the film business in the next 15 years?
Daemon Hillin: In the next 15 years, the film industry will undergo a profound metamorphosis, driven by the integration of VR/AR storytelling and AI-driven filmmaking. Streaming platforms will reign supreme, yet we’ll witness the birth of new cinematic experiences. Diversity and inclusivity will take center stage, echoing societal shifts and audience demands. Throughout this evolution, storytelling’s timeless essence will persist, navigating the ever-changing currents of technology and culture.
Beverly Hills Magazine: What are your thoughts on the distribution world, specifically with the advent of giant streamers, where is all this taking us?
Daemon Hillin: In the ever-evolving world of distribution, the dominance of giant streaming platforms is reshaping the landscape. Yet, as the domestic market appears soft, consolidation may limit consumer options. Nevertheless, the emergence of niche services offers hope for diversification. To thrive, creators and distributors must adapt to changing technology and consumer preferences.
Beverly Hills Magazine: What do you think are the most vital factors that may make a movie or TV Show successful?
Daemon Hillin: In the filmmaking process, synchronizing elements like genre, director, casting, and budget is paramount for ensuring a successful return on investment. Each component plays a crucial role in aligning creative vision with financial viability.
Beverly Hills Magazine: What elements make a film successful in international markets?
Daemon Hillin: The success of a film overseas hinges greatly on its genre and recognition. Universally relatable themes like action, adventure, and fear transcend cultural boundaries, making such films easily translatable and appealing to diverse audiences worldwide. For instance, the primal emotions evoked by running, shooting, or experiencing fear resonate universally. Conversely, genres like comedy or drama might face challenges in translation due to cultural nuances. Therefore, understanding the global appeal of certain genres and leveraging established names in the industry significantly contribute to a film’s success on the international stage.
Beverly Hills Magazine: What makes you decide you want to get involved with a project and produce a film?
Daemon Hillin: To me, filmmaking is akin to assembling a complex puzzle. Each piece, whether it’s the script, the cast, the crew, or the overall vision, plays a crucial role in bringing the project to life. When I identify the right pieces that align with my creative vision and goals, I’m enthusiastic to jump on board and contribute to the collaborative process.
Beverly Hills Magazine: What advice would you give to producers looking for distribution for their project?
Daemon Hillin : The advice I would offer to a producer seeking distribution is to prioritize securing recognizable talent. Having established names attached to your project can significantly enhance its marketability and appeal to distributors. These names not only draw attention but also instill confidence in the project’s potential success among distributors and audiences alike.
Beverly Hills Magazine: What can fans look forward to from Hillin Entertainment in the near future?
Daemon Hillin: Hillin Entertainment maintains a steady production schedule, releasing 3-5 films yearly across diverse genres. Among our upcoming releases are captivating creature features, exhilarating action films, and a heartfelt exploration of women’s empowerment themes. Our dedication to storytelling diversity ensures an engaging lineup tailored to various audience preferences.
As our conversation with Daemon Hillin comes to a close, it’s clear that his passion for storytelling and dedication to creating unforgettable cinematic experiences drive his remarkable success in the industry. His insights into the ever-evolving landscape of Hollywood and his innovative approach to entertainment leave no doubt that Hillin Entertainment will continue to shape the future of cinema. With a vision that transcends boundaries and a commitment to excellence, Daemon Hillin remains a formidable force, inspiring both audiences and aspiring filmmakers alike.