“Very well directed by Dana Richie who builds up the story cleverly, and creates a meaningful film that is both heartfelt and thought-provoking.”
WINNER, BEST DIRECTOR - FESTIGIOUS FILM FESTIVAL
PURPOSE. IMPACT. SOUL.
Backlot is a human-centric storytelling studio crafting bespoke, narrative-driven content that builds trust and fosters deep emotional connection. We focus on personal experiences, from documentary-style films to authentic brand stories that move the needle and hearts.
We don’t just create premium content; we build lasting partnerships. Our team blends cinematic artistry and expert storytelling with a commitment to long-term goals, listening and collaborating every step of the way. Your input is heard and valued. Our people-first approach means providing comprehensive tools to empower voices and bring unforgettable stories to life.
FOUNDER/EP/DIRECTOR, BACKLOT
Award-winning filmmaker, writer, director, and producer Dana Richie is the Founder and Executive Creative Director of Backlot Productions, a renowned creative studio specializing in documentary, brand content, music-driven programming, and digital media. With more than 20 years of experience spanning television news, pop culture, and commercial production, Dana is known for her ability to connect audiences to the heart and soul of each project - an approach that allows her to explore complex, multi-faceted subjects through a lens of authenticity and hope.
Founded in 2002, Backlot Productions operates at the intersection of brand, culture, and storytelling. Under Dana’s leadership, the company has produced campaigns and original content for global clients including AT&T, Sony, Yahoo!, EMI/Capitol, General Motors, Hennessy, Smartwater, and Bayer, delivering high-profile work that is strategically driven, audience-first, and visually distinctive.
In 2019, Dana made her feature directorial debut with the award-winning documentary Gateway, which received more than 30 awards and nominations, and was widely recognized for its unflinching examination of the opioid crisis. She has also directed and produced original projects such as Unlocked, a documentary-style exploration of the trauma experienced by the medical community during the early days of COVID-19 and its lasting effects, and Trustworthy, a journey across America examining journalism, democracy, and the growing crisis of trust in today’s media, now available on Amazon Prime.
Dana has made an impact as an award-winning director with her acclaimed social impact documentaries Gateway and Trustworthy.
EIC & CFO ADVISOR
Scott Heydt serves as EIC and CFO Advisor at Backlot, overseeing production finance and operations. With deep roots in music, media, and creative businesses, he began his career at Ernst & Young before moving into senior finance roles at Warner Music Group and later leading finance and operations for high-growth agencies including LBi (Publicis Groupe), Tribal Worldwide (Omnicom), and VaynerMedia, where he helped scale teams, strengthen financial systems, and has advised on the acquisition and sale of numerous companies across the media and creative industries. Earlier in his career, Scott was also a signed RCA recording artist and professional touring musician, giving him firsthand experience on both the creative and business sides of the industry. Through his firm Heydt Air, Scott advises companies on financial discipline, operational strategy, and sustainable growth, helping leadership teams build the systems and structure needed to scale with confidence.
| MEDIA
GATEWAY | ENTERTAINMENT TONIGHT
TRUSTWORTHY | PHILADELPHIA INQUIRER
UNLOCKED | ABC7 LA
FACES OF THE MISSING | PEOPLE MAGAZINE
GATEWAY | SCREENING
Backlot turns 25 next year and what a quarter of a century it has been. Our roots began in music programming, brand content and entertainment marketing. Over the years, we’ve created memorable content for top brands, studios and labels. From the early days of music programming to the evolution of modern brand content, Backlot has mastered the art of authentic and inspired storytelling across multiple genres. We're honored to celebrate this incredible milestone.
Relive the golden era of music journalism and see examples of Dana and Backlot’s candid conversations with legendary artists.
Kelly Clarkson talks to Dana about her first Greatest Hits Album.
Bruno Mars talks to Dana about his debut album Doo-Wops & Hooligans.
Slash talks to Dana about getting a start on Hollywood Walk of Fame.
Sting talks to Backlot for VH1 and plays acoustic after 911.
Stevie Nicks talks to Dana about solo album Dreamy.
Mick Jagger talks to Dana about his music video “Visions In Paradise” featuring an elephant.
Sting talks to Backlot for VH1 and plays acoustic after 911.
Perry Ferrell talks to Dana about starting Lollapalooza.
Kiss talks to Dana about announcing Motley Crue Tour.
