Check Out Annie Dashtoyan’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to Annie Dashtoyan.

Hi Annie, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I was born in the Republic of Georgia and emigrated to the U.S. with my mom when I was seven. To adapt to a new country and language, I immersed myself in books, stories became my refuge. What began as a way to learn English quickly evolved into a lifelong passion for storytelling, which naturally led me to filmmaking.

I began my career at Warner Bros. Studios nearly 15 years ago as a coordinator, back when my job included scratching iTunes gift cards for fans frustrated they couldn’t redeem their Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2 digital copies. Looking back, those early days are some of my fondest memories, I built friendships and learned lessons that shaped my career.

Over time, I worked my way onto the Creative Content team, where I produced behind-the-scenes documentaries and short-form content for major theatrical releases. In that role, I had the privilege of collaborating with incredible filmmakers throughout every stage of production, from the early script phase to the final DVD release. I had the unique opportunity to tell directors’ stories and witness their creative process firsthand. In many ways, this became my film school. My last two projects at the studio were Dune: Part Two and Beetlejuice Beetlejuice.

In the summer of 2024, I took the leap into independent producing. Since then, I’ve been developing and producing my own films, one of which will premiere this November on Amazon Prime through The Wonder Project platform.

Today, as a mother of four, I’ve found a new rhythm, balancing the demands of independent filmmaking with the joy of family life. While the hours can be long, I now have the freedom to carve out time for my husband and kids, and that balance fuels both my creativity and my purpose as a storyteller. I often times feel like being a wife and a mom has made me a stronger producer,

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
The road has been anything but smooth. Growing up with a single mom, I started working at a young age and couldn’t afford film school. I didn’t have the backing of an alma mater or family connections in the industry, so I quickly learned that hard work, persistence, and building genuine relationships would be my way forward. I always knew I wanted to create and tell stories, though it took time to discover how. On the studio side, I took on different roles and projects until I found my footing, and realized that producing was where I truly belonged.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work? What are you most proud of?
I’m most proud of the relationships I’ve built with the incredible directors I’ve had the privilege to work with. I take great pride in protecting their vision and creative integrity, making sure the stories they tell are represented authentically and with care.

One of the projects closest to my heart was a short I produced at the studio titled “An Ensemble for the Ages”, created for Dune: Part Two. The piece explored Denis Villeneuve’s relationship with his remarkable cast, and the mutual love and respect among them truly shone through. I’ll always be proud of how that short captured the spirit behind such a monumental film.

Most recently, I produced a feature titled “A Winter’s Song”, a Christmas rom-com filmed in Armenia. As an Armenian, I’ve long wanted to showcase the beauty of my country in a way that celebrates joy and connection, rather than focusing solely on its painful history. This lighthearted family film, with its stunning visuals of Armenia and music from talented diasporan artists around the world does just that. It’s exactly the kind of story I’ve always dreamed of sharing to put Armenia on the cinematic map. I was also able to collaborate with some of my closest friends on this project, it really was a labor of love and I can’t wait for everyone to experience it.

What sort of changes are you expecting over the next 5-10 years?
We’re in what I believe is one of the biggest shifts the film industry has ever seen, not just between humans and AI, but also between franchise filmmaking and original storytelling. Audiences are showing clear signs of franchise fatigue, and this year’s box office proved it. With films like Sinners, F1, and One Battle After Another finding success, it’s evident that people are craving originality.

Niche and underrepresented stories are finally getting the attention they deserve, not only because of their cultural value, but because they stand out in an oversaturated marketplace. The fact that our own film was acquired is proof that fresh, authentic voices still cut through the noise.

As for AI, I honestly have no idea where it’s all heading. But I do believe that, at the end of the day, it will remain a tool, something filmmakers can use to enhance creativity, not replace it. At least, that’s my hope.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mrs_andash/?hl=en

Image Credits
Urbanite-LA