Meet Robert Byrd | Film Write, Director and Producer

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

Hi Robert, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
I moved to LA in 1998 because I wanted to be part of the film industry. Honestly, I was chasing a dream that felt impossible for a guy from West Virginia with no contacts or connections. Over the years, as I worked in the industry, I had the chance to watch others bring their visions to life. Then one day, while sitting on set, it hit me like a ton of bricks—the only thing holding me back was me. That realization was a game-changer.

I knew it was time to stop waiting for permission and start forging my own path. Life is short, and I realized I needed to take full advantage of every second and every opportunity. And when opportunities don’t come to you, sometimes you have to create them yourself. That’s why I started my own company—to make Dark Triad, my first feature film, and finally bring my vision to life.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My art is rooted in my love for storytelling—finding unique ways to tell stories through my personal lens. I strive to excite and challenge audiences by exploring the human condition, often in unconventional ways. My first feature film, Dark Triad, is a perfect example. It flips the traditional hitman story on its head, humanizing villains and forcing viewers to wrestle with complex moral questions. I’m incredibly proud of this project because it reflects my passion for pushing boundaries and telling stories that leave a lasting impact.

Getting to where I am today has been far from easy. I moved to LA in 1998 with no connections and nothing but hopes and dreams in my pockets. My journey began humbly at Blockbuster Video—if anyone still remembers those days. Over time, I worked my way up in the industry, taking on roles from personal assistant to production manager. I approached every job as a learning opportunity, soaking up knowledge from anyone willing to share it. Being on set is like being in a giant classroom, where lessons are all around you if you’re open to receiving them.

One of the toughest challenges I faced was overcoming self-doubt. I wrestled with questions like, Do I deserve the chance to tell a story? Will anyone want to see it? Will anyone care? Fear has a way of stopping you in your tracks, but I’ve learned that the only way forward is to push past it. The turning point came when I realized that no one was going to hand me my dreams—I had to create my own opportunities.

Starting my own production was both terrifying and liberating. It’s teaching me invaluable lessons about resilience, leadership, and the importance of surrounding myself with people who believe in my vision. I’ve learned that failure isn’t something to fear—it’s something to embrace and learn from. Every setback has made me stronger and more determined to succeed.

What I want the world to know about my brand and story is that they are grounded in authenticity and the belief that great stories have the power to inspire change. My goal isn’t just to entertain; it’s to create work that resonates with people in the same way so many stories have inspired me. I want to challenge the status quo and show that independent films can be just as powerful and impactful as any blockbuster. My journey has been fueled by a deep love for the craft, an unrelenting drive to create, and a belief that great art comes from taking risks and staying true to yourself.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If you’re planning the ultimate LA trip, here’s how I’d do it. This will give you a mix of everything that makes LA special to me—art, history, beaches, movies, and incredible food. Let’s go!

Start with some culture—The Broad Museum is an absolute must for contemporary art, and the best part? It’s free if you book ahead. Since you’re in the heart of movie land, the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures is a no-brainer. Right across the street is the Petersen Automotive Museum, where you can check out some truly iconic cars.

When it’s time to hit the coast, Venice Beach is where it’s at. It’s wild, creative, and the people-watching is next-level—you never know what you’re going to see. Don’t skip the Venice Canals if you’re in the mood for something more relaxed. And if you’re feeling adventurous, get a tattoo at Black Diamond Tattoo. My wife and I make it a birthday tradition when we can, and it’s always a memorable experience. After Venice, head over to the Santa Monica Pier. It’s iconic—free concerts in the summer, great food, and sunsets that’ll make you want to stay forever.

You’ve gotta do the Hollywood thing, at least once. I promise, it’s worth it. Take a stroll down the Hollywood Walk of Fame and check out the TCL Chinese Theatre. Then, head to the Griffith Observatory for incredible views of the city and the Hollywood sign. If you can, catch a show at the Hollywood Bowl—there’s truly nothing like it.

Since you’re in the center of movie-making magic, spend a day at Universal Studios Hollywood. If you really want to see the magic behind the movies, make sure to take the Universal Tram and visit the backlots. If you’re here on a Sunday, don’t miss Smorgasburg LA in Downtown LA. It’s foodie heaven, with some of the best eats you’ll find in the city.

Since I’m an Inglewood resident, I have to shout out a couple of my local favorites. Start with coffee and brunch at Hilltop Coffee + Kitchen—it’s got great vibes and even better coffee. While you’re in the area, check out SoFi Stadium and the new Intuit Dome—talk about an impressive build. Walk around the lake and take in the full view. For something really special, see a movie at Cinépolis Cinemas. You can watch a film while enjoying a full dining experience—it’s my new favorite way to experience a movie, right up there with IMAX.

There you have it—a little bit of everything that makes LA amazing. Enjoy, and soak it all in!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
In life, nothing can be achieved alone, and I’m incredibly grateful to the many people who have supported me along the way. First and foremost, my wife, Debbie Lockie, who constantly tells me I can make it happen and pushes me every single day toward success. My mother has always been my biggest cheerleader, reminding me that I can accomplish the impossible as long as I’m willing to put in the work.

I’m also deeply thankful for my producing partner, Karina Farah, who decided to join me on this wild and ambitious journey. And currently, NuContext Creative for giving me the opportunity to truly learn the ins and outs of producing content.

To be honest, I’m grateful for each and every person I’ve ever had the chance and opportunity to work with on set. Every collaboration has taught me something valuable and helped shape me into the person I am today. I wouldn’t be where I am without the incredible people who have shared this journey with me.

Website: https://darktriad.net

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

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61555749864275

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@robertbyrd8759

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Image Credits
All images are created and owned by me