The Haunting of Hollywood is centered around James Donovan who is deeply influenced by the tragic life of his mother, Olivia, and her love for movies. While he used to help Olivia with her audition tapes with his Super 8 camera, now he embarks on a journey through Los Angeles with his GoPros and digital cameras to see if the trip to the iconic Hollywood sign holds the key to solving the mystery around his mother’s death. James’ friends Skyler and Casey accompany him on this odyssey under the assumption that they’re merely entertaining his whims, but the closer they get to their destination, the more they realize that something actually supernatural is at play. I sat down for a virtual chat with director Lilia Doytchinova to unpack what’s going on in this surreal film, what are her biggest cinematic influences, and more.
How did you come up with the story of The Haunting of Hollywood?
“The story is deeply personal—it’s not just a tale about struggling artists; it’s a reflection of my own experiences and those of my incredible cast and crew. When I embarked on my first feature, I wanted to create something authentic, something I could genuinely speak to. It felt fitting to craft a love letter to Hollywood that also acknowledges its dark underbelly. Just imagine the glittering yet treacherous streets of Hollywood—where dreams can easily transform into nightmares. This narrative was inspired by my fascination with the elusive specters that haunt not only the backlots but also the minds of those who dare to pursue their dreams here. It’s like a therapy session for the film industry, packed with just the right amount of supernatural intrigue to keep audiences on the edge of their seats. At its core, it’s about confronting those haunting fears that accompany the pursuit of fame, while also celebrating the courage it takes to navigate those shadowy paths.”
It’s been said that the movie is inspired by true life events. Can you share some of those inspirations with us?
“Absolutely! One of the most poignant inspirations for The Haunting of Hollywood is the tragic story of Peg Entwistle. As I delved into the history of the Hollywood sign, I discovered this remarkable actress from the 1930s who left Broadway behind to pursue her dreams in Los Angeles. After enduring a series of rejections and facing despair when her risqué film role in Thirteen Women was cut just before its official release, Peg lost all hope. In a heartbreaking moment of desperation, she chose to jump off the ‘H’ of the Hollywood sign in 1932. Her story encapsulates the struggles and emotional turmoil that many artists experience in their quest for fame. It serves as a powerful reminder of the darker side of the entertainment industry, resonating deeply with the themes of our film. Peg’s tragic fate highlights the intense pressure and emotional toll that ambition can inflict on those brave enough to chase their dreams.”
Your movie tackles the topic of mental health. What is the process of dealing with such a heavy theme and portraying it in this surreal and mystifying way without losing its seriousness?
“In The Haunting of Hollywood, James has the hardest journey, grappling with the effects of his mother Olivia’s mental illness. His struggle to confront her spirit is central to his path toward healing, poignantly representing the generational pressures of the industry. Our process focused on honesty and sensitivity. We centered Olivia’s experiences while using haunting voice overs that echo James’s turmoil, blending reality with his anxiety. To enrich this portrayal, we utilized metaphors through music and unsettling impersonators, creating an eerie tension between industry illusions and reality. By adopting a surreal aesthetic, we explored the depths of despair while maintaining respect for the serious subject matter. Our goal was to craft a narrative that engages the audience in a thought-provoking and relatable way, encouraging reflection and dialogue around these critical mental health issues.”
The movie was developed throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. Did that period evolve your film in a way that you didn’t expect when you first conceptualized it?
“Absolutely! The pandemic transformed our film in ways I had never anticipated. What began as a guerrilla-style shoot evolved into a profound exploration of isolation and existential dread. The empty streets of Hollywood during lockdown infused the film with an unexpected layer of haunting solitude, amplifying the themes we were already addressing. The pervasive sense of hopelessness and isolation that the pandemic brought to our locations became integral to the story. It underscored the characters’ struggles, deepening the narrative and allowing us to highlight the emotional toll of chasing dreams in such a challenging environment. In many ways, the very circumstances that seemed like obstacles at first ultimately enriched the film’s artistic vision.”
What are some of the challenges you faced while making this film? What was the hardest scene that you shot?
“The challenges we faced while making The Haunting of Hollywood were nothing short of epic! Some of the hardest scenes to film took place during the Arrowhead night shoot. We braved freezing temperatures, icy roads, and snow-covered grounds—our camera even froze at one point! But rather than dampen our spirits, these obstacles forged a strong camaraderie among our indie filmmaking team. Each setback only fueled our determination; we were united by our passion for storytelling, bolstered by a youthful arrogance that kept us moving forward. Shooting during the pandemic added a surreal twist—running through the empty streets of Hollywood felt like we owned the place, if only for a moment. Filming at the iconic Hollywood sign during early morning guerrilla shoots was exhilarating and nerve-wracking, especially when we heard breaking news of local vandalism on the very day we shot there. Editing proved to be a real adventure. Sifting through over 70 hours of footage, I found myself alone in the editing room—both intimidated and excited. This was where the true magic began; I realized I had the power to rewrite the narrative and convey emotions that had eluded me on set. It was an excruciating yet exhilarating and profoundly satisfying process, one that ultimately shaped the very heart of the film.”
You’ve worked in quite a few big-budget productions (as per IMDb: Expendables 2-4, Creed 2, and Mechanic: Resurrection). How did that journey prepare you for your debut directorial? What are some industry secrets that you learned during that process that you used during the making of your film?
“My journey through big-budget productions was an invaluable training ground for my directorial debut. I learned how to effectively run a set and manage a team, even though the crew for this film was much more streamlined than what I was used to. At the heart of any successful production are strong communication and organization—skills I honed by observing the best in the industry. Working alongside seasoned producers, I witnessed firsthand the dedication and relentless problem-solving mentality required to bring a vision to life. I aimed to emulate that spirit on my own set. One of the key insights I gained was understanding the dynamics and communication policies between various departments. Treating everyone with respect and fostering a collaborative environment are lessons you can’t fully appreciate unless you experience them in action. These industry secrets have become the backbone of my approach as a director and producer, helping me cultivate a positive atmosphere even on a smaller scale. They remind me that good filmmaking is not just about the script or camera work—it’s about the team that brings it all together.”
What are some of your biggest cinematic influences (favorite directors, writers, or films in general) that you were drawing from while making this film?
“My cinematic influences form a rich tapestry woven from diverse sources, each leaving a lasting mark on my creative journey. The Blair Witch Project (1999) embodies the indie spirit, inspiring us to adopt a raw, guerrilla filmmaking approach that adds authenticity to our narrative. It illustrated the power of creating compelling films on a shoestring budget with limited resources and boundless creativity, mirroring my own approach for The Haunting of Hollywood. As a super fan of David Lynch, particularly Mulholland Drive (2001), I aimed to capture the eerie, dreamy, and hallucinatory world he masterfully creates, populated with creepy and peculiar characters that reflect Hollywood’s darker side. The quirky narrative of Under the Silver Lake (2019), featuring its protagonist Sam on a mysterious quest to uncover a conspiracy, also resonated with me as I explored LA’s underbelly. In crafting Olivia’s character, I drew inspiration not only from the true story of Peg Entwistle but also from Gloria Swanson’s portrayal of Norma Desmond in Sunset Boulevard (1950), whose depiction of Hollywood’s obsessions beautifully reflects the haunting themes of our film. My love for cinema began with Breathless (1960), whose revolutionary jump cuts and striking black-and-white imagery opened my eyes to the power of storytelling as a medium for expressing chaotic and hopeful thoughts. The transformative impact of Requiem for a Dream (2000) cannot be overstated. Its deep emotional resonance—conveyed through extraordinary editing, a poignant score, creative cinematography, and raw performances—stirred something profound within me. It ignited my desire to create something equally impactful that challenges viewers’ perceptions and stirs their emotions. Ultimately, my mission is clear: to open the hearts of my audience, just as these influential films have done for me.”
What was the process of casting for this film? How much of that hike to the Hollywood sign did they do for real?
“Every bit of that hike to the Hollywood sign was real! We all trekked to the top, even rehearsing there in advance. I spent time on my own at the site, working out logistics—I know that place like the back of my hand. Before diving into preparation, I ran a small Kickstarter campaign to raise initial funds for the movie. During this process, I discovered William Mann, who plays James. I was immediately impressed by his talent and ability to convey powerful emotions. For the promo shoot, I had the actors run up the hills in Griffith Park at night, and it quickly became clear that William was perfect for the role. His extraordinary dedication made it obvious that I had found my lead. The casting process was extensive, filled with numerous chemistry readings until we found Stefanie Infante, who perfectly embodies Skyler. Lami, who plays Casey, is not only a talented actor but also a real musician, and from the moment I saw him, I knew I had found Casey. The night I received Joseph Lopez’s self-tape, I was so excited that I couldn’t sleep—I knew he was incredible, and I couldn’t wait to call him in the morning! Tiffany exceeded my vision for Olivia, bringing depth that allowed us to explore new dimensions together. The impersonators, Christian and Astrid, were equally impressive; I’m looking forward to working with them again in larger speaking roles in the future. I sought actors who weren’t afraid to step out of their comfort zones and embrace experimentation. I’m incredibly grateful to have found such a talented and committed cast.”
How did you ensure that your cast wasn’t affected, mental health-wise, by the subject matter of your film, especially because, much like the characters they’re playing, they are artists trying to make their mark in this industry?
“That connection among us was palpable. We all experienced feelings of loneliness, rejection, and dissatisfaction at various points in our early careers in Hollywood, which allowed us to bond deeply over the subject matter. Our shared experiences helped us unite around telling a cautionary tale, with a mission to inspire aspiring artists to persevere despite setbacks. We approached the story as a reminder that it’s easy to fall into the trap of despair, but it’s much harder to rise from it and maintain a positive outlook when everything around seems gloomy. Throughout the filming process, we emphasized open communication, encouraging the cast to share their feelings and experiences. This support system became a crucial part of our teamwork. Ultimately, the film serves as a reminder that no one is alone in their struggles. We are all in this together, moving toward the light one day at a time. It’s this collective strength and understanding that kept our spirits high and helped us navigate the emotional depths of the story without compromising our mental health.”
And what kind of thoughts & opinions, overall, would you want audiences to walk away with after watching The Haunting of Hollywood?
“I want audiences to recognize the immense pressures present in this challenging industry, but also to understand that if you know your ‘why’ and pursue your passions with all your heart, you will be okay. We all need a boost of energy and validation, but too often, we look outside ourselves for it when it’s something we must cultivate from within. Tragically, Olivia didn’t find that inner strength, and in her exhaustion, she made a heartbreaking choice to end it all. Yet, the story continues through James, Skyler, and Casey, who must carry on in their pursuit of their dreams. Hollywood can be luring, dangerous, and lonely, but when you take the time to look within and tell the story that truly matters to you, you’ll find your own compass for navigating this complex world. My message is one of resilience: stay strong and keep believing in yourself. There’s no better place than right here, making the best you can, one step at a time. That’s all you can do, and it’s enough.”
