Anderson .Paak Discusses ‘KPops!’ Film Debut and Bruno Mars Tour
Anderson .Paak, a Grammy Award-winning artist, recently made his directorial debut with “KPops!” The film explores the worlds of K-pop and Black culture, reflecting his personal experiences and connections with his son.
About the Film “KPops!”
“KPops!” was inspired by .Paak’s desire to connect with his son, who became enamored with K-pop and YouTube during the pandemic. Over five years, the film took shape, with .Paak starring as BJ, a struggling musician who travels to Seoul to compete in a popular K-pop show. Alongside him is his son, Soul Rasheed, playing the character Tae Young.
Set to premiere on February 27 at AMC theaters across the nation, the film attempts to portray a blend of cultures and generational experiences. .Paak stated that he hopes “KPops!” will illuminate Black and Korean cultures while serving as a family comedy that appeals to a broad audience.
Behind the Scenes
- Directorial Experience: .Paak drew from his past experience directing music videos to helm this film.
- Family Dynamics: The filming process provided insights into his evolving relationship with his son, as they navigated shifting interests.
- Cultural Insights: The film aims to highlight the mutual influences between K-pop and Black music, addressing how both cultures contribute to the modern music landscape.
Musical Collaborations and Tour with Bruno Mars
Alongside the film’s release, .Paak is also gearing up for a tour with his longtime collaborator Bruno Mars. They will perform together as DJ Pee .Wee and promote their successful duo Silk Sonic, known for winning four Grammy Awards. While on tour, .Paak expressed aspirations to create new music with Mars.
Learning and Growing Through Film
The film’s concept evolved significantly during its development. Co-writer Khaila Amazan helped refine the narrative, enhancing its emotional depth. Through this collaboration, .Paak deepened his understanding of K-pop’s impact and influence, both musically and culturally.
An important aspect of “KPops!” is its exploration of cultural intersections. .Paak connected his experiences growing up with Korean heritage and Black culture. He noted the film serves as a vehicle to bond over shared musical interests, hoping to resonate with audiences beyond the K-pop fanbase.
Authenticity and Reception
- Authenticity in Casting: The film features cameos from notable figures in the K-pop industry, like Kevin Woo, adding authenticity to the portrayal of the K-pop world.
- Timely Release: With K-pop’s rising global influence, .Paak feels that the film’s timing aligns perfectly with current cultural dialogues.
Through “KPops!”, Anderson .Paak seeks to celebrate his heritage while providing entertainment that unites audiences. This blend of story, culture, and personal experience may surprise viewers by offering more than just a K-pop-centric film.
