Black Rhino Creative is a Vancouver-based film production company that specializes in creating cinematic documentary series, feature-length films, and branded entertainment. Founded by directors Ryan Mah and Danny Berish, the company is dedicated to telling stories that highlight diverse communities and unique perspectives. With notable projects like the series “Postcards From” and a feature film about the iconic architect Arthur Erickson, Black Rhino Creative aims to leave a lasting impact through their distinct storytelling approach. We got to speak to Ryan Mah and Danny Berish to discuss the origins of their company, their motivations, and their vision for the future.
What is your business called and what does it do?
The name of our production company is called Black Rhino Creative. We are filmmakers who work alongside top-tier talent to create cinematic documentary series, feature-length films, and branded entertainment.
What made you want to do this work?
The name Black Rhino Creative comes from a story we heard about the last Black Rhino in the wild going extinct. We wanted to pay homage to the last Black Rhino and use our storytelling as a means to tell positive stories.
What problem did you want to solve with the business?
There are not too many BIPOC owned and operated film production companies here in Vancouver, and we wanted a chance to explore stories about diverse communities. We have a series on AMI called Postcards From, where we explore accessibility and travel and most recently, we made a feature film about the iconic architect, Arthur Erickson, who lived in an era where being an openly gay man had tremendous challenges.
Who are your clientele/demographics?
All walks of life. The goal for any project is to find an audience that is either learning something completely new or is deeply connected to the story and has a vested interest in sharing our work.
How does your business make money? How does it work?
The democratization of camera equipment and editing software has significantly levelled the playing field, which allows for margins to be made. Another great way of making passive income in the film industry is retaining rights to your intellectual property. Owning your IP allows producers to connect with distributors, licence content and connect with larger audiences.
Where in the city can we find your profession?
North Burnaby
What is the best question a prospective customer could ask a member of your profession when comparing services? Give the answer as well.
What is your vision? Art and film can be very subjective. As filmmakers, we all, generally speaking, have access to the same supplies and equipment but having a unique point of view and vision for executing a project is what sets us apart.
What is the best part about what you do? What is the worst part?
Honestly, the people that we encounter on a daily basis is the best part of the job. We’re very fortunate to meet the most inspiring people and work with the most creative minds. Worst part, our teams are small and we need to be focused on the projects we pursue, so we can’t do them all.
What is your favourite joke about your own profession?
Not really a joke, but many folks see our work and say how fun it must be to meet all these incredible people and travel to remote places. Although that’s true, 90% of the job is paperwork and sitting in front of a computer, the remaining 10% is what you see on Instagram.
Where can we follow you?
PAY IT FORWARD: What is another local business that you love?
Ambit Cafe. Great local cafe near our office. Caffeine and creativity go hand in hand.
