About
Rob Hollocks is a British-born filmmaker, writer, director and producer, based in Los Angeles for over two decades and working across live-action features, animation, and international film marketing at the highest levels of the industry. He is also a partner in Beyond Casual media in Georgia, and a co-founder of Pickering Animation Studios in the UK.
During his tenure as Head of International Marketing at Paramount Pictures, overseeing global campaigns for some of cinema's most iconic franchises and releases - including Forrest Gump, Saving Private Ryan, and the Indiana Jones, Mission Impossible and Star Trek franchises, working with Lucasfilm, Amblin Entertainment, and Cruise/Wagner Productions. After founding his own digital consultancy, he went on to work with Fox, Lionsgate and Sony on major studio projects. His animation credits include work with Disney, DreamWorks, and Illumination, as well as the acclaimed Riot Games/ Netflix series Arcane.
As a filmmaker, Hollocks writes, directs, and produces his own genre projects. His feature The Observance (his third film as writer-director and fourth as producer) enjoyed a highly successful festival run, garnering over 10 awards in the USA, Europe and Japan, (including a 'best director' win at the Hollywood Independent film festival) and was released theatrically at AMC cinemas across the United States
His earlier features, Applewood and Mister Sleep have earned recognition within the indie horror and thriller communities for their atmospheric storytelling and creative ambition.
He is also the author of The Indie Theatrical Playbook, a practical field manual for independent filmmakers navigating theatrical distribution drawn directly from his own release campaign.
With a growing slate of international projects, Rob continues to push the boundaries of genre storytelling, building a body of work that is both commercially successful and artistically resonant.
FEATURES:
The Observance
The Observance is a psychological horror thriller directed by Rob Hollocks and starring Kate Dailey, Ted Raimi, and Alec James.
The film has been praised for its unsettling atmosphere, powerful performances, and its exploration of faith, control, and psychological manipulation.
From festival audiences to theatrical screenings, The Observance has built a reputation as a compelling independent horror film that isn’t afraid to challenge its audience.
AWARDS
The Observance has received significant recognition at both U.S. and international film festivals, earning multiple awards across acting, directing, and best feature categories.
Across its festival circuit, The Observance accumulated multiple international awards and nominations, cementing its place as a standout entry in the modern independent horror landscape.
Following a strong festival run, The Observance went on to secure a U.S. theatrical release with AMC Theatres, screening in cinemas across the United States as part of a limited theatrical engagement.