Today we’d like to introduce you to Daemon Hillin.
Hi Daemon, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I began my career in the mortgage and real estate sector in 2006. Unfortunately, the 2008 market crash had a profound impact on me, leading to a complete reset in my professional life. A pivotal moment came when my sister, who was living in Los Angeles, generously allowed me to stay with her. Around this time, I connected with a real estate investor, Charlie Quinn, who was interested in creating a documentary series in LA and entrusted me with its production. This was my gateway into the world of production. To support myself, I worked as a bartender while also focusing on the documentary. Hard to believe, but I crewed up on Craigslist since I didn’t know any other way. This challenging period was instrumental in shaping my future, as it was when I met my mentor, producer Ryan Johnson. Under Ryan’s guidance, I learned the intricacies of production operations and packaging. My persistence paid off, and by 2011, I had produced my first film, ‘A Stranger In Paradise,’ in Thailand.
Can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today. You can include as little or as much detail as you’d like.
The first film I produced caught the attention of Benetone Films, one of the financiers. Impressed with my dedication and work ethic, they acquired my US-based company, and I was appointed as the president of Benetone Films. Thailand emerged as a significant focus in my career, offering a unique and exclusive market. Here, I honed my skills in Southeast Asian film production, making around 19 films in Thailand and nearly 40 globally.
Has it been a smooth road? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
Filmmaking is an inherently challenging field. It’s a journey filled with unexpected obstacles, whether it’s dealing with distributors, crew, financers, or other production elements. Each aspect can introduce strife and obstacles, but these challenges also bring growth and learning opportunities.
In terms of your work and the industry, what are some of the changes you are expecting to see over the next five to ten years?
The year 2023 posed significant challenges across the film industry, triggering a reset in many aspects. However, these shifts have set a promising tone for 2024. With rapid technological advancements, it’s an exciting time, though it’s hard to predict exactly what the next couple of years will bring.
Pricing:
- My focus has primarily been on films with budgets ranging from 1 to 5 million dollars. Over the years, we’ve seen a steady increase in our budget, reflecting our growth and the expanding scale of our projects.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/daemonhillin/
