Meet Ben Everard | Film Producer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Ben Everard and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Ben, alright, let’s jump in with a deep one – what’s you’re definition for success?
The answer to this question has evolved over time. Early in one’s career, success is often defined in more materialistic terms, the title, the house, the trip. Then as you progress through your career the realization kicks in that these pursuits are never ending and they do not provide the peace of mind you seek with maturity. Once children enter the picture, success is flipped entirely on its head. Good health, a happy family, and the freedom to pursue the interests that are most rewarding and productive on your own terms becomes invaluable.
On the film side, my first goal was to simply get a project made. Once I did that, it was get a film released theatrically. Then, having the number 1 film in the world. I have a few more objectives to achieve in that arena, but in some respects I’m back to, let’s just get the next project off the ground. With bigger elements and budgets if we can. And have the most number of people be impacted by the film.
Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I’ve managed to produce 5 studio films at this point, all of which I’m tremendously proud of. Each have their own distinct flavor, and every film project is its own startup venture in many ways. I was fortunate to partner with great people early in my career and that helped me be in positions to work with world class talent on each project.
I’m particularly excited about the “live action Pixar” lane – YES DAY and FAMILY SWITCH fall squarely in this category. The live action, four quadrant family film is under serviced in Hollywood, and I’m confident the world wants more films in this category. E.T., Goonies, Home Alone, Karate Kid – class films with A list filmmakers and talent that influence the cultural zeitgeist in a meaningful way. I’m quite excited about these projects in my future slate.
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
It’s a bit cliche, but for those new to the area I often say a hike in Runyon Canyon is a great way to orient yourself to the city (and start with some exercise). Then grab lunch probably at a sushi spot (I’m a Sugarfish fan), then get to the beach (Manhattan Beach being my personal favorite) for some sun. For the evening, I’d try a classic LA entertainment venue.
I’ve been fortunate to experience many of the iconic LA experiences (the Oscars, Globes, Lakers, Dodgers, Grammys, etc), but my favorite event of the year is John Williams at the Hollywood Bowl. Bring your own food and drink, and enjoy the greatest living musician (in my opinion) conducting the orchestra under the stars to some of his most famous scores. That’s a perfect evening out to me.
Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My parents for setting the foundation for success and fulfillment and providing a loving and nurturing childhood.
Twitter: @beneverard