The Art of Reinvention: How Safehouse Pictures is Shaping Hollywood's Future
April 6, 2025, 4:53 pm
Location: United States, Louisiana, Shreveport
Employees: 1-10
Founded date: 2018
In the ever-evolving landscape of Hollywood, where trends shift like sand, one production company stands firm: Safehouse Pictures. Founded by the dynamic duo Tory Tunnell and Joby Harold, this married couple has carved a niche that blends creativity with commercial success. Their journey is a testament to resilience, innovation, and the relentless pursuit of storytelling.
Safehouse Pictures is celebrating its 20th anniversary with a bang. Their latest film, *Novocaine*, has not only topped the box office but also captured the essence of what modern audiences crave. Tunnell and Harold have mastered the art of reinvention, navigating the turbulent waters of the film industry with a New York hustle that’s as infectious as it is effective.
The couple’s journey began in New York, a city that pulses with independent film energy. They thrived in an environment where smaller films could shine at festivals like Sundance and Toronto. But as the industry landscape shifted, so did their strategy. They packed their bags and headed to Los Angeles, ready to infuse Hollywood with their unique brand of creativity.
In Hollywood, they faced a different beast. The stakes were higher, and the competition was fierce. Yet, Tunnell and Harold embraced the challenge. They understood that to stand out, they needed to tell stories that resonated. Their mantra? If a story feels familiar, how can you tell it differently? This philosophy led to the creation of *Novocaine*, where the hero is not the invincible fighter but rather someone who faces relentless adversity. This inversion of expectations is what keeps audiences engaged.
The couple’s approach to filmmaking is akin to a chess game. They analyze the board, anticipate moves, and strategize accordingly. Tunnell recalls a pivotal moment when they pitched *Spinning Out*, a show about a bipolar ice skater. Despite initial rejections, they didn’t back down. Instead, they sent ice skates to potential buyers, a bold move that showcased their commitment. This tenacity paid off when they landed a deal with Netflix, proving that creativity and persistence can break through barriers.
Joby Harold’s expertise as a writer plays a crucial role in their success. He has a knack for distilling complex ideas into compelling narratives. His work on *Underground*, a series about enslaved people escaping the South, exemplifies this talent. By framing it as “the greatest prison break in history,” he transformed a heavy subject into a gripping story that captivated audiences.
But it’s not just about the stories they tell; it’s also about the impact they have on the industry. Tunnell and Harold are acutely aware of the challenges facing theaters today. With streaming services on the rise, getting audiences to leave their homes is no small feat. They believe that the key lies in creating experiences that are best enjoyed in a theater—films that evoke laughter, fear, and excitement. *Novocaine* exemplifies this, proving that audiences will flock to theaters for the right film.
The couple’s journey hasn’t been without its setbacks. Tunnell reflects on the importance of resilience. They teach their children that success is often born from failure. This mindset has allowed them to bounce back from disappointments and continue pushing forward. Their partnership is a balancing act; when one falters, the other lifts them up. This synergy is the backbone of their success.
As they look to the future, Tunnell and Harold are not resting on their laurels. They recognize that the film industry is in a state of flux. Digital transformation, changing consumer habits, and global challenges are reshaping the landscape. Yet, they remain optimistic. Their commitment to storytelling and innovation positions them well for whatever comes next.
Safehouse Pictures is more than just a production company; it’s a beacon of creativity in a crowded market. Tunnell and Harold are not just filmmakers; they are visionaries. They understand that the heart of cinema lies in its ability to connect with audiences. Their journey is a reminder that in the world of film, the only constant is change. Adapt, innovate, and above all, tell stories that matter.
In a world where many are content to follow trends, Safehouse Pictures stands out by forging its own path. The couple’s dedication to their craft and their unwavering belief in the power of storytelling is what sets them apart. As they continue to navigate the complexities of Hollywood, one thing is clear: they are not just participants in the industry; they are shaping its future.
With *Novocaine* as a launching pad, the next chapter for Safehouse Pictures is bound to be exciting. The couple’s journey is a testament to the power of creativity, resilience, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. In the grand tapestry of Hollywood, they are weaving a narrative that is uniquely their own, one that inspires others to dream big and push boundaries. The hustle continues, and with it, the promise of new stories waiting to be told.
Safehouse Pictures is celebrating its 20th anniversary with a bang. Their latest film, *Novocaine*, has not only topped the box office but also captured the essence of what modern audiences crave. Tunnell and Harold have mastered the art of reinvention, navigating the turbulent waters of the film industry with a New York hustle that’s as infectious as it is effective.
The couple’s journey began in New York, a city that pulses with independent film energy. They thrived in an environment where smaller films could shine at festivals like Sundance and Toronto. But as the industry landscape shifted, so did their strategy. They packed their bags and headed to Los Angeles, ready to infuse Hollywood with their unique brand of creativity.
In Hollywood, they faced a different beast. The stakes were higher, and the competition was fierce. Yet, Tunnell and Harold embraced the challenge. They understood that to stand out, they needed to tell stories that resonated. Their mantra? If a story feels familiar, how can you tell it differently? This philosophy led to the creation of *Novocaine*, where the hero is not the invincible fighter but rather someone who faces relentless adversity. This inversion of expectations is what keeps audiences engaged.
The couple’s approach to filmmaking is akin to a chess game. They analyze the board, anticipate moves, and strategize accordingly. Tunnell recalls a pivotal moment when they pitched *Spinning Out*, a show about a bipolar ice skater. Despite initial rejections, they didn’t back down. Instead, they sent ice skates to potential buyers, a bold move that showcased their commitment. This tenacity paid off when they landed a deal with Netflix, proving that creativity and persistence can break through barriers.
Joby Harold’s expertise as a writer plays a crucial role in their success. He has a knack for distilling complex ideas into compelling narratives. His work on *Underground*, a series about enslaved people escaping the South, exemplifies this talent. By framing it as “the greatest prison break in history,” he transformed a heavy subject into a gripping story that captivated audiences.
But it’s not just about the stories they tell; it’s also about the impact they have on the industry. Tunnell and Harold are acutely aware of the challenges facing theaters today. With streaming services on the rise, getting audiences to leave their homes is no small feat. They believe that the key lies in creating experiences that are best enjoyed in a theater—films that evoke laughter, fear, and excitement. *Novocaine* exemplifies this, proving that audiences will flock to theaters for the right film.
The couple’s journey hasn’t been without its setbacks. Tunnell reflects on the importance of resilience. They teach their children that success is often born from failure. This mindset has allowed them to bounce back from disappointments and continue pushing forward. Their partnership is a balancing act; when one falters, the other lifts them up. This synergy is the backbone of their success.
As they look to the future, Tunnell and Harold are not resting on their laurels. They recognize that the film industry is in a state of flux. Digital transformation, changing consumer habits, and global challenges are reshaping the landscape. Yet, they remain optimistic. Their commitment to storytelling and innovation positions them well for whatever comes next.
Safehouse Pictures is more than just a production company; it’s a beacon of creativity in a crowded market. Tunnell and Harold are not just filmmakers; they are visionaries. They understand that the heart of cinema lies in its ability to connect with audiences. Their journey is a reminder that in the world of film, the only constant is change. Adapt, innovate, and above all, tell stories that matter.
In a world where many are content to follow trends, Safehouse Pictures stands out by forging its own path. The couple’s dedication to their craft and their unwavering belief in the power of storytelling is what sets them apart. As they continue to navigate the complexities of Hollywood, one thing is clear: they are not just participants in the industry; they are shaping its future.
With *Novocaine* as a launching pad, the next chapter for Safehouse Pictures is bound to be exciting. The couple’s journey is a testament to the power of creativity, resilience, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. In the grand tapestry of Hollywood, they are weaving a narrative that is uniquely their own, one that inspires others to dream big and push boundaries. The hustle continues, and with it, the promise of new stories waiting to be told.