Welcome to Renegades, Gold House’s editorial series spotlighting Asian Pacific leaders and creatives who are carving their own paths and defying stereotypes along the way.

This week, we sat down with film producer Zainab Azizi. Zainab works together with Hollywood legend Sam Raimi to produce genre-focused films via Raimi Productions. Her production credits, including the Sandra Oh-led ghost-story “Umma”, the sci-fi journey “65”, the brutal action-comedy “Boy Kills World”, and the immobile horror-thriller “Don’t Move”, exemplify her love for thrills and chills while paving the way for the next generation of filmmakers. We dive into climbing the career ladder and what’s next on her production slate.

When you were growing up, what was your dream job and how does that childhood goal compare to where you are now?

When I was growing up, I didn’t have a specific “dream job,” but rather a vision of the kind of person I wanted to be—someone who could make a difference and, like many children of immigrant parents, have a successful career that would make them proud. While I didn’t know what that would look like, I was always immersed in the arts. From creating my own fairytales and horror stories (Peter Jackson’s Dead Alive was my introduction to the genre) to drawing comics and directing short films with my brother and cousins, I had a passion for storytelling and a creative drive. But I didn’t realize that film production could be a viable career for someone like me.

Looking back, it feels like a full-circle moment. As a producer, I’m still doing what I loved as a child—creating, telling stories, and working with others to bring those stories to life, but on a much larger scale. All of those childhood experiences, even though I didn’t have the words for it at the time, were laying the foundation for where I am today—gratefully.

Describe a pivotal moment in your early career that helped shape your path in the industry. What was it about this specific experience that solidified your decision to pursue working in film?

A pivotal moment in my early career was starting in the mailroom at WME, which was my first job in the entertainment industry. At the time, I didn’t have any connections or a formal educational background in film, so it felt like a terrifying leap. However, that experience turned out to be life-changing. It gave me an insider’s view of how the industry operates—from talent management to packaging—and I quickly learned how much I loved being part of a team that brings creative projects to life. It taught me the value of hard work and how patience and perseverance can carve out a meaningful path in this industry.

As a producer, you often juggle many different elements of a project. How do you prioritize creative vision and commercial success for your projects?

I lean on my team and encourage creative collaboration in all departments. I wish I knew the formula for commercial success, so I prioritize creative vision and hope for the best!

You’ve worked on a wide range of films with Sam Raimi including Umma, 65, and Boy Kills World. What has been the most exciting part of collaborating with someone who is especially known in the industry for his iconic films and for pushing the boundaries?

Sam Raimi has been an incredible influence on my life. Of course, I loved all of his genre films, but Xena really impacted me. I was enamored by how strong and bold of a character she was—traits that I like to incorporate into the characters in my projects. Sam has been incredibly supportive and always pushes me to listen to and trust my instincts. Aside from being an iconic filmmaker, he is extremely mindful and humble. I aspire to be like that.

Your last film, Don’t Move, charted #1 on Netflix and was a massive hit. What was the process like bringing the story to life, and at what point during production did you realize the film would take off?

The love for Don’t Move feels like a dream. I met with a manager, Marc Manus, who initially shared the script, and I could not put it down! It felt like the perfect popcorn-Friday-night film, and I loved Iris’ arc. Within six months, I was able to secure the financing, and we were in pre-production in Bulgaria. It was such an incredible experience working with the directors, Adam Schinder and Brian Netto, and I’m so happy for them that it’s become a hit!

You’ve worked in a variety of roles within the film industry. Looking back on your career, what is one piece of advice you’d give to someone who wants to break into producing or working in film production?

Start in the mailroom. Work hard and be kind. Find mentors and when you’re able to, become one yourself.

What is an exciting story you are looking forward to sharing next? Are there any topics you haven’t explored yet that you’d like to work on in the future?

I’m currently shooting Send Help, a dream project I’ve been working on for five years. It has been a wonderful experience working with 20th Century Studios. Another project that’s still in the early stages, and which I’m very excited about, is a biopic on Sessue Hayakawa, starring and producing with Andrew Koji and Chris Pang. We’re still in development with our brilliant writer, Yugo Nakamura, but I hope that one day it will be brought to life. It’s an inspiring story that must be told!

Lightning Round

Favorite Book: The Picture of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde

Go-To Theater Snack: Sour candy – yum!

All-Time Favorite Horror Film: Nightmare on Elm Street by Wes Craven

Most Memorable On-Set Experience: Working with Sandra Oh on my first film – she is incredible!

Best Advice You’ve Ever Received: Nothing great comes easy.