Everyone knows that actors must face a great deal of rejection as they audition for roles. What most people do not realize, however, is that directors often have their own fair share of disappointment. Such was the case for the highly talented Rick Famuyiwa, who was announced as the director for the upcoming film The Flash before plans fell through. However, his departure from the project has opened up his schedule for other projects, with rumors linking him to a martial arts picture called Son of Shaolin.
While Famuyiwa has had a highly successful and decorated career, many people do not know much about him. His films, although powerful and moving, have not been large-scale blockbusters. For this reason, many people wanted to know more about him after his name made headlines recently. Here are five of the most interesting facts about this gifted director.
5. He based his first film on his own life
Creativity may be extremely important for directors, but nothing makes a picture more powerful than connections to real life. Famuyiwa’s first film, The Wood, was so successful partly because it was based on his own experiences. The film, while not a full autobiography, depicts some of the experiences Famuyiwa and his friends and family had. The film was highly acclaimed and earned Famuyiwa nominations at The Black Reel Awards and The NAACP Image Awards.
4. He is well educated
Famuyiwa is clearly a natural talent, as each of his films have been critically acclaimed. However, he has also devoted a significant amount of time and effort into honing his craft. Most notably, this included earning degrees in both Film & Television and Critical Studies from the University of Southern California. He also spent time perfecting his craft at the Sundance Filmmaker’s Institute, which he considered graduate school.
3. He is Nigerian and grew up in California
With so much media attention centering on the issue of immigration, it is always nice to see a successful first-generation American. Famuyiwa is an excellent example of how much immigrants and their children can contribute to society, as his parents moved to the US from Nigeria. He grew up in Inglewood, California. While the city has a bad reputation, he stated that his upbringing was not filled with gangs and violence like one might expect. He explained that although these were present in his teenage years, he and his friends were never involved with them.
2. He likes making low-budget films
In addition to the low number of meaningful roles available to actors of color, one of the most significant barriers to equality in Hollywood is securing funding for pictures written by people of color. Given this issue, Famuyiwa believes that it is often better for people of color to make low-budget films. By making scripts that lack expensive effects and can be shot quickly, black directors can have films produced and tell the stories they need to tell.
1. His films highlight issues like race, acceptance, and friendship
One of the reasons why so many studios are approaching Famuyiwa with their projects is his ability to handle important issues. His films have tackled difficult subjects like racial diversity and friendship within areas dominated by people of color. He also often explores the role of friendship in a person’s life. Although he now appears poised to break out into high-profile productions, his early work was impressive in its ability to deliver powerful messages without a big budget.
Final Thoughts
Rick Famiyuwa will likely become a household name very soon, as he has attracted the attention of huge studios like Marvel. However, fans should look to his early work to see what an extraordinary talent he is. After understanding the difficulties African-American directors often have securing funding for their projects, Famiyuwa decided to tell his stories through low-budget productions. His work is entertaining, intriguing, and explores important issues like race and friendship. As he continues to climb higher and higher in Hollywood, fans will likely be treated to even more inspiring films from this incredible director.
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