‘Fight Night’ producer Will Packer says he’s ‘living proof’ that diverse content is good business

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As a movie buff and avid follower of Hollywood trends, I am truly impressed by Will Packer’s remarkable journey and impact on the industry. With his unique ability to produce movies that cater to an underserved audience and deliver significant box office successes, Packer has proven that diversity is not only good for art but also good business.

Will Packer knows that diversity in movies is good business.

The producer has gained prominence in Hollywood for creating movies featuring predominantly Black actors, addressing an often overlooked demographic. This audience has responded positively, propelling his films to commercial success. For instance, his 2017 comedy “Girls Trip,” starring Tiffany Haddish, Regina Hall, Queen Latifah, and Jada Pinkett Smith, became the highest-grossing comedy that year. Movies like “Think Like a Man” and “Ride Along” have also enjoyed significant box office success.

After expanding his portfolio to include streaming platforms, documentaries, and television projects (encompassing both scripted and unscripted programs), this artist is broadening his repertoire at a pivotal moment for the industry undergoing significant changes in its business structure. Upcoming for him is “Fight Night,” a limited series on Peacock based on a true story about the biggest heist in Georgia’s history, featuring an impressive cast including Kevin Hart, Samuel L. Jackson, and Taraji P. Henson. However, Hollywood’s economic downturn should not lead to the neglect of diverse projects in favor of solely prioritizing profits, according to him.

“I believe it takes bold individuals in the industry to recognize the financial rewards of producing a diverse range of content organically. And I take pride in being one of those pioneers.”

This year is the 10th anniversary of Will Packer Productions. What are you most proud of?

In an unstable industry where many companies don’t endure, we’ve managed to remain sustainable and long-lasting. Despite constant shifts and changes, we’ve kept our value to media partners and audiences, making relevance our top priority.

What has helped you stay relevant?

I prioritize both commercial success and authenticity in my work. We aim to create content that resonates with our primary audience, offering it at a moment they’re most receptive.

As someone who has spent years in the creative industry, I find it astonishing how self-important we can become. I have encountered peers who hold the belief that if they create something, audiences will flock to it naturally. But let me tell you, this mindset is far from reality, especially in today’s oversaturated market.

What more needs to be done to diversify Hollywood?

I’m a firm believer in looking on the bright side. Progress has certainly been made if we compare the current state of things to where we started – the representation in front of and behind the camera is more diverse than ever before. However, given how sparse authentic diversity was in the past, there’s still a long way to go. While I remain optimistic, I’m not naive enough to believe that we’ve reached some miraculous turning point. In fact, during times of budget constraints, such as when studios pull back on spending, initiatives focused on diversity are often the first to be cut.

I’m a living example that various content brings great success in business. Regrettably, it’s becoming more challenging for filmmakers from diverse backgrounds, as it is for all filmmakers. However, the struggles faced by marginalized voices are disproportionately severe and evident now.

What projects are you excited about?

I’ve been following the exciting world of television production for quite some time now, and one project that has truly piqued my interest is called “Fight Night.” As a devoted fan of both history and storytelling, I can’t help but be drawn to this limited series that I’m fortunate enough to be working on for Peacock.

Rapid-fire questions

What are you listening to now?

As a film enthusiast, I’ve been absorbing various forms of media to fuel my creative mind. Recently, I’ve been engrossed in an audiobook titled “Tools of Titans.” Musically, I’ve found myself drawn to the collaborative works between Kendrick Lamar and Drake. These tracks serve as my soundtrack for productivity and motivation during my workouts. Additionally, this year, I had the privilege of attending Carnival in Trinidad. The lively and infectious soca rhythms have been a part of my daily playlist ever since.

How do you get focused?

For me, maintaining focus has always been essential. With so many things on my plate, I cannot afford to lose concentration. I’m the type of person who manages multiple tasks simultaneously by effectively compartmentalizing my responsibilities.

What do you do to relax?

As a cinema devotee who’s also an amateur boater, I find myself drawn to the serene beauty of the beach. The water calls to me, and when I can, I hop on my boat and set sail. It’s there, in the midst of the gentle waves and the vast expanse of water, that I feel most at peace. The hustle and bustle of everyday life fades away, leaving only the soothing sounds of the sea and the sun warming my skin. These moments on the water are when I truly unplug and find solace for my soul.

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2024-07-18 22:09