Point of View: Production Services, Maria Hagiwara

von Joe Brooks
Maria Hagiwara
Managing Partner & Executive Producer Hideoki & Co.


Point of View: Production Services

In a few words, can you tell us who you are and what your job title is?
I'm Maria Hagiwara, co-owner and executive producer at Hideoki Productions.
Did you have a dream job as a child, and if so, what was it?
If I had a dream, it wasn't just one dream. I still dream like a child.
What project are you most of proud of working on and why?
Project Hideoki. I'm happy working on expanding our creative wings. Since 1989, the company focused solely in production services. For the first time in its history, Hideoki Productions underwent a rebrand in 2015. I'm proud to be responsible in carving a new space and shape for the company. Beyond running Hideoki Productions, I co-ideate and co-write stories with creative directors.
Did you have a mentor at one point in your life and how did that person help guide you?
I never had a mentor. However, I grew up with a spiritual guru who's my father. He went by the name of Swami Deva Leelananda. Initiated in India, he taught many subjects from creative development and tapping your mind power. He had a strong following and influenced a gamut of people that changed their lives forever. "To dream is free, so dream big. Be specific in your mind and invoke that it is so" is one of the many things he used to say. I carried plethora of his teachings to this day. My father was my guide from a very young age even if I was just one of his many students listening to him in awe.
Is there a band or an artist that you listen to the most during the work week to help you relax and stay motivated and if so, what is it?
My choices of music vary very much. I do enjoy Madame Gandhi, Dire Straits, Sara Bareilles, Christine and the Queens, Ed Sheeran, Stromae to name a few.
If you had a chance to be President or King for a day and could enact any rule into law, what would it be?
A gun-free America.
What do you think is the most underappreciated aspect of your role in your company?
I'm not the CEO of the company, but I set the vision, culture and ignite passion to keep moving forward -- not just on the business side of things, but more importantly, on people. It's an aspect in my role that is hardly noticed. Whilst I don't receive the acknowledgment, I appreciate the outcome of what I've set before me.
What is the biggest challenge that production service companies have in working with clients?
We've been blessed with wonderful, long-standing clients. If there is one challenge, it would be the typical budget issue which we always manage to work with. Clients go home happy.
What is your favorite part about being on-set during location shoots?
Being with different set of people on-set is always interesting. No shoot is ever the same and I like this about location shoots. Quick problem-solving on the spot is fulfilling.
What is your favorite thing that you get to do at your job in a typical work week?
I get to blast music and dance whenever I want to.


Maria Hagiwara
Managing Partner & Executive Producer Hideoki & Co.