“I’d prefer to remain in the background and just do my thing,” reflects Roy Lee, a sentiment that seems almost paradoxical as a photographer captures his image under the glow of studio lights. The mega-producer, known for his extensive work in the film industry, is momentarily posed on a staircase before settling into his office, which is adorned with a collection of custom Lego cars he crafted with his son, Leo. This meticulous assembly of pieces mirrors Lee’s own career, where he has skillfully pieced together cinematic successes over nearly 25 years, culminating in a remarkable 2025.
At 56, Lee has produced or executive produced an impressive eleven films this year alone, beginning with New Line’s sci-fi thriller Companion and peaking with the near billion box office triumph of Warner Bros.’ The Minecraft Movie. The momentum continued with the chilling success of New Line’s horror feature Weapons and the anticipation surrounding Lionsgate’s adaptation of Stephen King’s The Long Walk. This impressive lineup does not even account for the much-anticipated It: Welcome to Derry, the video game adaptation Until Dawn, or the live-action remake of How to Train Your Dragon.
Lee’s Approach to Filmmaking
Despite his prolific output, Lee remains a figure who shies away from the spotlight. You won’t find him mingling at high-profile events or asserting his presence on set; rather, he adopts a more subdued approach, preferring to empower the creative talents he collaborates with. “Some studio executives think they’re more creative and more talented than the talent they’re working with, whereas I never feel that way as a producer,” he explains. “I am just trying to get out of the way and help these people get their movie made.”
This philosophy resonates with filmmakers like Zach Cregger, director of Weapons, who acknowledges Lee’s pivotal role in his career. “He kicked doors open for me,” Cregger states, recalling their collaboration on Barbarian, a film that solidified Cregger’s reputation in the horror genre. “I don’t think anyone has an understanding of the landscape like Roy does. My life changed because of him.”
While Lee has gained recognition for his work with established franchises and remakes, such as The Lego Movie, he is equally committed to nurturing original voices in the industry. Director JT Mollner, who helmed Strange Darling and penned the adaptation of The Long Walk, appreciates Lee’s integrity in a landscape often marred by cutthroat competition. “Roy is one of those rare people who’s had unparalleled success, the type of success that could afford him to be one of those nasty people without consequence. But he chooses to be loyal, honest, and supportive to the people he works with,” Mollner remarks.
Lee’s journey began in the 1990s as an assistant at Alphaville Films, where he laid the groundwork for his future success by connecting talent with material. He pioneered one of Hollywood’s first online script tracking services, which allowed him to forge relationships with future industry leaders. This knack for identifying talent and intellectual property early on has been a cornerstone of his career, as noted by Warner Bros. co-chair Michael De Luca. “This is the whole ball game in this business,” he emphasizes, highlighting Lee’s ability to navigate the competitive landscape with a quiet confidence.
As Lee reflects on his career, he shares anecdotes that reveal his unique approach to filmmaking. One memorable instance involves the development of Weapons, where Cregger’s script garnered multiple bids within a remarkably short timeframe. “That was probably the best situation of a script that didn’t exist two months earlier becoming a hit movie two years later,” Lee recalls.
Lee’s ability to recognize potential extends to his dealings with literary icons like Stephen King. After successfully adapting It, he secured the rights to The Long Walk when it became available, demonstrating his keen insight into storytelling that resonates with audiences. “From the time I got the rights to wrapping production, it was 18 months,” he notes, showcasing his efficiency in bringing compelling narratives to life.
Despite the pressures of the industry, Lee maintains a grounded perspective on accolades and recognition. “Personally, I don’t care about awards, but I’m happy for other people to get them,” he states. His focus remains on the creative process rather than the accolades that may accompany it. “I just want to make something super great,” he adds, emphasizing his commitment to producing films that resonate deeply with viewers.
As the conversation shifts to the future of Hollywood, Lee expresses optimism about the evolving landscape. He envisions opportunities arising from new technologies, particularly in the realm of artificial intelligence, and remains dedicated to creating meaningful entertainment. “I think about this whenever I develop anything: I want to make something that will be somebody’s favorite movie of all time,” he concludes, underscoring his enduring passion for storytelling in an ever-changing industry.
