Who is Mike Hill?
Mike Hill is an impact filmmaker and director of the theatrical feature documentary Live the life you please. His life work is to harness the power of screen stories for the greater good, to inspire and activate audiences by crafting compelling films that make a deep and lasting impact.
What would you do differently from what you do now?
I love what I do but am always striving to reach more people and make a greater impact. To do this I’d love to produce purposeful, narrative feature films and television series. I have several of these projects in active development at the moment and can’t wait until these reach audiences in Australia and abroad. And I want to learn more about how to measure and evaluate the impact that screen stories make on audience behaviours.
Who inspires you and why?
Most filmmakers and master storytellers inspire me, especially doco makers, who are like kindred spirits. I’ve been a life-long fan of Errol Morris and love Christopher Nolan’s films. Both of these filmmakers are disruptors and innovators but also students of the craft of screen storytelling. I’m also a huge admirer of Sue Maslin, who is one of Australia’s great producers and trailblazers. Her work in recalibrating the way Australian films are made and reach audiences is so inspiring.
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
More of what I’m doing – making films that ‘matter’ (to me. and hopefully to you as well).
Favourite holiday destination and why?
Victoria’s surf coast. Where the Otway’s meet the sea is such a draw. The wilderness, the beaches, the wildlife and seeing nature put on a different show every day never fails to fill my cup.
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
When friends come to Melbourne from out of town, I love to take them to one of my favourite restaurants in Richmond, walk them down the river and explore the Botanical Gardens before either diving into the city or the MCG depending on which side of the arts/ sports divide they’re on.
What are you currently reading?
Making Movies by Sydney Lumet and listening to Cinema Speculation by Quentin Tarantino – both brilliant for different reasons.
What are you currently listening to?
Local Valley by José González.
Happiness is?
Watching the sunset over Rabi Island in Fiji surrounded by family and friends with a drink in my hand.
What does the future hold for you?
As many memory-making adventures as I can squeeze in to it!
Mike is the director of the theatrical feature documentary Live the life you please – currently screening in selected theatre across Australia. For more information, visit: www.livethelifeyouplease.com for details.