The InDaily 40 Under 40 alumnus from 2020 said the announcement last week that his supernatural horror film DIABOLIC will be shot and produced solely in South Australia illustrated the importance of being recognised in your home state. 

Principal photography will start in late 2022 and Phillips said that when productions like this come to shoot in SA they don’t usually do any post-production in the state but this time it is different. 

“The deal is proof that SA is a player on the international stage in film and not just a shooting destination for big international and interstate projects,” Phillips said.

“It proves that young industry leaders don’t have to move from the state to fulfil their dreams… bring the dream to you.” 

He said that the 40 Under 40 Awards provided him the platform to be recognised for his achievements, which are usually reserved for other industries.

“Those kinds of awards and business awards always seem to be reserved for tech companies or massive franchises… rather than people in the creative industries,” he said.

“It was really nice to be recognised in my field, alongside other hard-working entrepreneurs.”

The 40 Under 40 Awards provide young entrepreneurs with a platform to increase their exposure, not only locally but also globally.

“In regards to helming large-scale film projects as a director, the 40 Under 40 award has proven that these aren’t just artistic projects, but serious commercial endeavours and run like any other business,” Phillips said.

“When you’re an entrepreneur or a leader of people, there’s no one that tells you you’re doing a good job because you’re at the top.

“I think that every once in a while it’s really nice for someone to say and recognise these types of people… and say you’re doing the right things and to keep doing what you’re doing.”

With the last few remaining tickets on sale till Friday, Phillips said it was important to go to the 40 Under 40 Awards to meet the people who lead this state. 

“It really is the greatest up and coming entrepreneurs that SA has to offer,” he said.

“There’s a lot of talent in the room and a huge amount of networking opportunities for anyone in business.”

Ticket sales to next week’s gala evening close at midnight Friday, with only a few remaining tickets available. The awards will begin at 6:30pm on Thursday, June 9 at the Adelaide Oval and feature South Australia’s finest food, beverages, guest speakers and live entertainment.

The 40 Under 40 for 2022 will be revealed in InDaily and the free print edition of  CityMag next week.