Blurring the Lines Between Film and Gaming

In an age where technology and storytelling intertwine, Nic Hill stands as one of the few creative minds daring enough to bridge imagination with innovation. As Co-Founder and Chief Innovation Officer at Sawhorse Productions, he doesn’t just create content; he reshapes how audiences experience it. From immersive metaverse experiences to interactive film activations, Nic’s work sits at the intersection of entertainment, technology, and human connection.

Foundation: The Story Behind the Vision

Nic’s journey began long before Sawhorse Productions came to life. With a degree in Media Studies from the University of San Francisco, he cultivated a deep understanding of how stories move people—whether through the lens of a camera or the rhythm of music. Before launching his company, he made his mark as an independent filmmaker, directing internationally acclaimed documentaries that reflected his sharp curiosity and emotional depth.

Those early years helped shape the storyteller he is today. As one of his former collaborators, Siska Doviana, once observed, “A goal-driven documentary filmmaker with a heart and intelligence that match it.” That heart remains evident in everything Nic touches, guiding his creative philosophy to connect audiences not just to brands but to meaning.

Ascent: Building Sawhorse and Reimagining Storytelling

In 2012, Nic co-founded Sawhorse Productions, a full-service production and post house in Los Angeles known for its dynamic blend of creativity, comedy, and cinematic storytelling. What began as a small collective of artists has grown into a powerhouse shaping branded content, commercials, and both scripted and non-scripted shows for some of the world’s most recognized names Pepsi, Netflix, Hyundai, Lionsgate, Universal Pictures, and the NFL among them.

Under Nic’s leadership, Sawhorse became known for pushing creative and technical boundaries. His philosophy is simple: blend artistry with technology to redefine what’s possible. It’s a principle he continues to emphasize as he builds teams that innovate fearlessly.

His colleague Chris S. once remarked, “Nic is a very talented and hard worker. We have collaborated on numerous projects, and it has always been a pleasure working with him.” That reputation for collaboration has not only built enduring partnerships but also inspired an internal culture of creativity and respect one that attracts visionaries eager to experiment with storytelling in new dimensions.

Impact: Merging Film, Gaming, and Immersive Marketing

Today, Nic’s influence stretches far beyond traditional filmmaking. His projects have turned interactive platforms into storytelling arenas, creating experiences that engage audiences in ways conventional media never could. From developing The Conjuring: Last Rites activation inside Fortnite to producing Roblox experiences for How to Train Your Dragon and other global franchises, Nic’s creative direction continues to blur the line between entertainment and participation.

As a thought leader in immersive marketing, Nic frequently shares insights on emerging digital frontiers through his podcast Brands In Play and as a member of the Ad Council’s Leadership Council. His vision resonates strongly with the entertainment industry’s shift toward interactivity and audience-driven engagement.

Longtime collaborator Noah Tsutsui summed up Nic’s creative impact best, describing him as “a wild mix of artistic vision, incredible work ethic, and unbiased journalism. Working with him has always produced amazing results everyone on his team can be proud of.” That spirit of integrity and innovation continues to define Nic’s approach as he navigates the evolving landscape of media and technology.

Vision for the Future

As the entertainment world accelerates toward immersive storytelling powered by AI, AR, and gaming ecosystems, Nic remains at the forefront of that transformation. Through Sawhorse Productions, he continues to champion a future where creativity and technology coexist seamlessly. His recent call for AI filmmakers to join his team reflects a forward-thinking mindset one rooted in the belief that while tools evolve, the human soul of storytelling must remain constant.

When he isn’t pioneering new frontiers in digital entertainment, Nic finds balance in music, cycling, and family life in Los Angeles. His diverse passions serve as reminders that true creativity thrives when curiosity is never confined.

Editorial Note

Nic Hill’s story reflects the evolution of modern storytelling itself from independent film to immersive media, from heartfelt narratives to interactive worlds. His career serves as an invitation to creators and brands alike: to innovate fearlessly, to collaborate authentically, and to never lose sight of the human story at the heart of every great experience.