Watermark Media: A New Player in Film and Finance
Industry veterans Julie Waters and Evan Dyal have officially introduced Watermark Media, a production and finance company that has hit the ground running since its inception in 2024. The company has already embarked on co-financing and producing an impressive lineup of five projects, marking its entry into the competitive entertainment landscape.
Highlighted Projects and Premieres
Among Watermark Media’s notable offerings is the feature film Oh, Hi!, which premiered at the prestigious 2025 Sundance Film Festival and subsequently captured the attention of Sony Pictures Classics for distribution. Another significant project in their portfolio is Made Bills to Pay, directed by Joel Alfonso Vargas, which also debuted at Sundance before making its way to the Berlin Film Festival.
Leadership Team with Diverse Expertise
Julie Waters, a seasoned executive known for her influential role at Temple Hill Entertainment, has a track record that includes the acclaimed FX series Dave, as well as Hulu’s Love, Victor and The Other Black Girl. Waters’ decision to launch Watermark Media follows her time at Rachel Brosnahan’s Scrap Paper Pictures, where she oversaw film and television projects.
Evan Dyal, who co-founded Watermark Media, brings a unique perspective from his previous career in real estate development. Supporting them in this venture is COO Aaron Millberg, who has an extensive background in talent representation, notably during his eight-year tenure at UTA’s endorsements division. Millberg has also served as the head of creator and content commerce at the e-commerce company Canal.
Development executive Lexi Kroll complements the team with her expertise, having previously worked in the literary department at Brillstein Entertainment and held roles at Jonathan Levine’s production company Megamix and Scrap Paper Pictures.
Commitment to Innovation and Inclusivity
In a joint statement, Waters and Dyal expressed their vision: “Watermark Media is built on a foundation of innovation and inclusivity, and further solidifies our commitment to creating culturally significant, fresh and diverse narratives from rising filmmakers. With Oh, Hi! and Mad Bills to Pay leading the way, we’re thrilled to share these films with the world and continue supporting creatives who are shaping the future of entertainment.”
As the film industry evolves, Watermark Media is poised to be a noteworthy contributor, emphasizing the importance of diverse storytelling while nurturing the next generation of cinematic talent.