Meet Donovan Griffin | Director & Producer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Donovan Griffin and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Donovan, how do you think about risk?
I think taking risks is one of the most important things to do in order to succeed in any career. If you’re not pushing yourself outside your comfort zone then growth will be nearly impossible. Anyone who decides to step into a creative occupation is already taking a huge risk – these industries are tough, unpredictable, and take a lot of getting back up before you’ll see success. It’s not for everyone but the rewards are huge.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Creating stories and being able to turn what starts off as a small idea into a captivating film that inspires its audience and leaves them with an unforgettable experience is why I am in this industry. Film has influenced me ever since I can remember. The greatest films first and foremost all have heart and a captivating story. With each project I take on, whether it be a feature documentary about extreme downhill skateboarding, a heartfelt commercial about the life of a school bus driver and his impact on the students, a quick flashy pro golf sunglasses ad, or a thrilling sci-fi music video, I focus on heart and story. I want the world to know that with faith, love, perseverance, and passion anything is possible.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Start our day with a dip in the ocean and possibly a surf at either El Porto or Dockweiler beach, after that we’d warm up in the sun and lay out for a bit. Then breakfast at Superba in Venice for a phenomenal breakfast burrito. We’d walk around the farmers market and then make our way back to meet up with some friends and play pickleball. Then after a well needed siesta we would all head over to my favorite restaurant in LA, Milo & Olive, in Santa Monica for some amazing pizza and pasta!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I’d like to dedicate my shoutout to Troy Takaki, ace for being such a great mentor to me. He took a chance on me when he decided to hop on my first feature film “Nick Broms: What’s The Rush?” as lead editor for nothing but passion. He brought on an amazing team of editors as well as some of the industry’s greatest post-sound professionals. Troy taught me that it never hurts to ask and to always mentor others in their career every chance you get.

Website: https://www.betterfilmsusa.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/donovangriffinfilms/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donovangriffin123/