Julian Hampton

Julian Vaughan Hampton is an independent filmmaker, screenwriter, author, director, and founder of Vaughanworks LLC, a production company through which he develops and produces original films across multiple genres. Over more than 15 years, Julian has built a body of work that demonstrates what is possible when creators stop waiting for ideal circumstances and begin working with the people, resources, and opportunities available to them. Julian’s creative journey began with songwriting and writing books before expanding into screenwriting and filmmaking. Rather than following a traditional path into the entertainment industry, he developed his craft through hands-on experience—learning the different responsibilities of an independent film set by performing many of them himself. That experience gave him a practical understanding of writing, directing, producing, casting, and translating an idea from the page to the screen. Through Vaughanworks, Julian has created action films, crime dramas, thrillers, family stories, and other independently produced projects. His filmography includes the action drama ***Fighting Olympus***, which he wrote and directed; the award-winning short thriller "Blacked Box"; Church N State"; and the psychological thriller "The Fear of It". His work reflects an interest in emotionally grounded storytelling, compelling characters, and the human experiences hidden beneath action, suspense, and conflict. As a Black independent filmmaker, Julian is candid about the financial, logistical, and creative challenges involved in bringing original stories to life. However, his message is not centered on what creators lack. He encourages aspiring filmmakers to develop their skills, build relationships within their own communities, use the locations and resources around them, and create meaningful work without believing that success is limited to Hollywood, New York, or a large production budget. Julian’s approach can be summarized by a simple but powerful philosophy: "figure it out and keep creating**. He believes filmmakers learn by making films, writers improve by completing their stories, and creative momentum develops through consistent action rather than waiting for permission, perfect conditions, or outside validation. His appearance on "The Lifestrong Project", titled “Figure It Out Filmmaking: Julian Hampton on Making Movies Anywhere,” explores his evolution from songwriter and author to filmmaker, the lessons he learned by taking on nearly every responsibility behind the camera, and the resilience required to continue creating when progress is difficult. His story offers a practical blueprint for filmmakers, writers, and other creators determined to turn their ideas into finished work.