BAFTA-winning producer Hayder Rothschild Hoozeer joins FILMD Chat to unpack the “15-year overnight success”: from runner lugging kit in Margate to building Who’s Here Films, studying at NFTS on a BAFTA scholarship, and learning to trust his taste. We go inside the making of Rock, Paper, Scissors, a true story on the Ukrainian frontline and why casting Ukrainian, filming in Ukrainian, and working with the Ministry of Culture mattered for authenticity. Hayder shares rehearsal-first tactics, bringing editor and composer to recces, and the no-ego culture that finished early and won big. We also dig into campaigning, impact, and keeping Ukraine in the conversation as the film qualifies for the Oscars. If you’re a filmmaker navigating budgets, structure and self-belief, this episode is a masterclass in craft and perseverance.
