Today we’d like to introduce you to E’Ian West.
E’Ian, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
I would say my start in the industry was very organic. I was born in Culver City, which is near Hollywood the biggest entertainment city on the globe. Growing up I never had an interest in the entertainment business, but my parents always told me I was creative. On a regular basis, I’d tell my parents ideas and my dad would always tell me, “E’Ian, that’s a great idea, write that down!” Next thing you know I’m 18 with booklets full of notes of the most random ideas across all industries. I had no idea what to do. That’s where Hollywood came into play.
While growing up there were so many connections that came, and eventually, some of those relationships turned into business opportunities within the industry. My first endeavor was a management company I started for people new to the LA area. I knew a ton of casting directors and club promoters that were constantly scouting for new faces. After some time had passed, I had more relationships and friends in other parts of the industry, specifically TV. Eventually, I began pitching show ideas to my trusted inner circle, then my attorney. After receiving great feedback that was authentic, I then started pitching directly to networks.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
My entry to the industry wasn’t and isn’t typical. This route wasn’t easy or smooth at all. One thing you will be forced to find out pitching shows is you will hear NO on a regular basis. You must have an understanding state of mind and be able to take the good times with the bad. There are a lot of lessons in the No’s if you’re listening. I’ve been there and done that for sure.
I am totally aware there are more NO’s to come, but that’s a part of the game. This industry takes a ton of commitment and follow-through; not to mention, great ideas that are original. One of the things that make it a struggle is the constant moving parts of each show.
So, as you know, we’re impressed with Montage Media Production Company – tell our readers more, for example, what you’re most proud of as a company and what sets you apart from others.
My business model is to create original concepts for television, cable, and streaming platforms. I have a great team that helps me bring all my crazy ideas to fruition. My job is to create what I consider phenomenal content, then direct and produce a finished product that I can proudly present to a network.
I would say I’m known as a creator of content. Something that I am proud of is the fact I can take the smallest idea and develop it into a well thought out project that garners excitement. I named the company Montage Media Production Company because I didn’t want to be placed into a box of a specific type of content. Montage Media for me is the process of dissecting a piece of media. That’s what I really enjoy doing. I love all the “off-camera, behind the scenes” work.
So, what’s next? Any big plans?
My company is growing in all directions. Of course, I have the biggest dreams and ambitions. If I had one wish, it would be to have more time for everything; more hours in every day, more time for family and friends, and of course more time to build the biggest production company that accepts any job, any scale, the same way major studios do. We are currently in pre-production for the Eddy Curry documentary and focusing on a release sometime in 2020. I’ve been working with my great partners at Reverse Content on their online social impact initiative, and of course, I’m continuing my work across all areas.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.montagemediausa.com/
- Phone: (310)-953-0139
- Email: [email protected]
Image Credit:
Jessie Aguayo
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