Late Shift Stays Up to Get Production Right for Brands

In an increasingly dispassionate world, Late Shift’s hands-on approach welcomes collaborators who value this style. Founders of Late Shift, seasoned executive producer John Hollingsworth and accomplished director Matt Genesis, have launched the New York-based production company with one simple goal - to make great work with great people.

The duo thrives on crafting bold and challenging projects, finding a way to balance the big picture with the fine details. The company’s relentless hunger for creativity is exemplified by the motto “we stay up late to get it done right”.

For Late Shift, the vivacity to carry an on-set experience through to the audience is always a priority in bringing creative visions to life. LBB caught up with John to discuss embracing new approaches in the production landscape, strong partnerships, future ambitions and ultimately how Late Shift came to life.

Late Shift’s philosophy is the commitment to go above and beyond for every project. As a duo, John and Matt have an undeniable appreciation and high regard for the “hands-on approach” to replicate and transmit the true feeling of filmmaking. As John describes, “We take a practical approach because, at the end of the day, we believe the audience can feel it on screen. What really sets us apart is the level of care we bring to every production."

Launched as a natural evolution in Matt and John’s partnership, Late Shift's success is underpinned by a commitment to long nights problem-solving and tirelessly evolving projects. “Creating Late Shift was our way of taking everything we’ve built together and turning it into something bigger – a company where we could steer the ship our way, on our terms,” says John. ”It’s about pushing boundaries, delivering high-end projects, and bringing a love for the spectacle of filmmaking into everything we do. This is our approach: bold, ambitious, and unforgettable.”

The duo’s passion for “delivering exceptional work” stems from a devotion to the craft of filmmaking. As John says, “It’s about putting the time, care and effort into every detail to create something truly special. We love what we do, and we want that love and dedication to be unmistakable on screen.”

That passion is deep rooted, and bleeds into every project. As well as a desire to bring in a “fresh perspective on filmmaking”. The duo immerse themselves in detailed and meticulous processes with a practical approach to ensure projects are always to the highest standard. “For us, it’s about reintroducing the tried-and-true, old-school methods of filmmaking and adapting them to the modern world using the technology available today—not just because it’s popular, but because it’s genuinely useful when it serves the project,” notes John.

And as accomplished industry experts, John and Matt have witnessed huge amounts of change and development in the production world over the years. But as John says, “When it comes to modern approaches, adaptability is key.”

As such, in the modern content-fuelled landscape, they work to maintain a focus on quality storytelling. Whether through incorporating modern technology or employing more traditional production processes, Late Shift always prioritises passionate project development. “A few years back, Matt and I worked on a project for Amazon Fashion that perfectly captured the Late Shift approach. The spot featured shoes changing on-screen in real time, and instead of relying on CGI, we went the practical route – using motion control for every single shot. Yes, every shot,” remembers John. “Leaning into the practical, hands-on approach, the final spot feels real – because it is.”

However, as timeless as old-school projects are, John recommends that “you need to stay open to innovation” in order to enhance the work and avoid following the crowd.

When asked about future ambitions for Late Shift, John shares, “long-term, you might see us stepping into the narrative space, but in the short term, expect big campaigns – projects that could set new standards or spark conversations. A year from now, I imagine we’ll be talking about some of the bold, buzz-worthy work we’ve been lucky enough to create, and maybe even some new ways we’re pushing boundaries. Stay tuned, because we’ve got a lot in the works.” With a partnership as strong as this duo, John shares that, “Starting Late Shift felt like the natural next step in our journey. We’ve got big plans ahead—so stay tuned!”

Spotlighting a bold and ambitious approach, Late Shift kicks off 2025 as a brand new production company with an audacious attitude to take this year head on. Putting enthusiasm above long nights and perhaps a need for caffeine, John and Matt showcase their passion for going above and beyond.