Hughes begins his career as a Hollywood producer, initially financing small, low-budget films.

Hughes produces 'Everybody's Acting', an American comedy film directed by Marshall Neilan, which received mixed to positive reviews.

Hughes produces 'Two Arabian Knights,' a silent film directed by Lewis Milestone, winning Milestone the Academy Award for Best Director and gaining Hughes recognition as a serious producer.

Hughes produces and directs 'Hell's Angels,' an expensive and technically challenging aviation film. The production is plagued by delays, cost overruns, and accidents, but it eventually becomes a box-office success and a landmark in aviation cinematography. It is considered the most expensive film made at that time.

Hughes produces 'Scarface,' a controversial gangster film directed by Howard Hawks. The film faces censorship challenges due to its depiction of violence, but it becomes a classic of the genre. It is loosely based on the 1929 novel of the same name and inspired by Al Capone.

Hughes directs 'The Outlaw,' a Western film starring Jane Russell that becomes notorious for its suggestive advertising and censorship battles. The film is a box office success, but its controversial nature overshadows its artistic merit. Its release and distribution are heavily delayed due to these battles.

Hughes continues to produce and sometimes direct films, showcasing a keen interest in pushing boundaries and exploring new cinematic techniques.