Anderson .Paak called in big-name favors to make ‘K-Pops’ sing: ‘I owe a lot of people’

As a film enthusiast and music lover, I found this interview with Kris Bowers, the lead actor in “Spiral,” truly captivating. His journey into acting, especially opposite his 13-year-old son for their first feature, is nothing short of inspiring. The way he effortlessly balances humor and humility while discussing his music industry cameos is a testament to his charisma and down-to-earth personality.

In his free time outside of Las Vegas performances, Super Bowl intermissions, and numerous collaborative projects, Anderson .Paak has also taken on the role of video director for artists like Leon Bridges, H.E.R., and Hailee Steinfeld.

Currently aged 38, the multitalented musician from California is stepping into directorial roles for the first time with “K-Pops.” In this movie, he portrays BJ, a drummer-frontman reminiscent of Phil Collins who hasn’t yet gained widespread recognition. As BJ joins the house band of a talent competition show in Seoul, he unexpectedly finds out that one of its contestants is his long-lost son.

As a passionate cinephile, I’m excited to share that I was part of the team behind a heartwarming family comedy, which beautifully celebrates diverse cultures. This project is a collaboration with an eight-time Grammy winner who, like me, has roots in both Black and Korean heritages. The stellar cast includes Yvette Nicole Brown, Jonathan “Dumbfoundead” Park, Jee Young Han, Kevin Woo, Cathy Shim, and the adorable Soul Rasheed, .Paak’s real-life son.

Prior to the initial screening of the movie at the Toronto International Film Festival this coming Saturday, the debut director shared with The Times his thoughts on accurately portraying K-pop in cinema, securing notable guest appearances, and working alongside his own son on set.

Where did the idea for “K-Pops” come from?

Since 2016, I’ve been frequently absent due to being on tour. It feels like when I leave with my baby in diapers, I return and they’re already growing up so quickly. Time truly flies when you’re having fun! Fortunately, when the pandemic struck, I got to spend more quality time at home with my children. My son and I even created a series of amusing YouTube skits together. I discovered his innate comedic talent during this process, and it was an enjoyable experience sharing this activity with him.

I hadn’t been very familiar with my Korean heritage until I started living with someone who is fully Korean and is also the mother of my children. Often, when I returned home, they were speaking Korean, eating kimchi, and listening to K-pop music. Sometimes, I felt out of place among all this, as if I didn’t belong. Whenever the conversation turned to BTS, for example, I found myself wondering about BET instead.

Some individuals expressed hesitancy towards my role in guiding and penning this project, yet that’s exactly what I desired. The entire endeavor stemmed from my wish to invest more moments with my son, and to accompany him at each stage of his journey.

Your character isn’t too likable at first. Who’s he based on?

A significant aspect of that character reflects an attitude in me where I believed I had all the answers, thought my abilities could open doors everywhere, and cherished playing to a crowded bar on Saturdays and Sundays, even earning drink tickets. It wasn’t until I became a family man that I began desiring more for myself.

To bring depth to this character, I wanted him portrayed as self-absorbed and unaware, living in his own bubble. The Free Nationals, my actual band, were there to provide a sense of reality and prevent me from losing touch. [BJ] needed a compelling storyline with room for growth to maintain audience interest in the film.

In some instances, the plot may incorporate an explanation or overview of K-pop music, such as mentioning prominent groups over time or the essential components of a successful act. Did you experience any pressure to accurately portray this genre during the creative process?

Indeed, that’s correct. In the process of discovery, I came to understand its political nature, even more so than gangsta rap music at times; it seems that there are certain individuals who cannot collaborate due to the structure. As a music history enthusiast, and with my colleague Khaila Amazan being a K-pop devotee, we aimed to delve into the historical background, influences, and uncover why these groups have achieved such massive popularity.

Every phenomenon in music comes full circle; what BTS was doing was so similar to what the Beatles and the Jackson 5 were doing. The choreography, fashion, each member having their different personality — that’s the building blocks of a great group, from New Edition to New Kids on the Block.

I find it enlightening when BJ connects the roots of K-pop to Black culture in that record shop scene, particularly considering the ongoing dialogue about K-pop and cultural appropriation.

To elaborate, we found it necessary to expand and refilm that particular scene. In essence, I’m pointing out that if you are passionate about this or any genre, and particularly aiming to produce something novel, it’s essential to delve into its origins. By doing so, you’ll recognize the recurring elements, the adaptations, and the distinctive interpretations that creators worldwide bring to various types of art, such as music.

In a non-disrespectful manner, I’m emphasizing the interconnectedness of ideas, suggesting that innovation stems from knowledge passed down through generations. It’s exhilarating when creators add their unique touch while still honoring the roots of what has come before. This isn’t about criticism or accusations of plagiarism; instead, it’s an examination of history and a show of appreciation. I aimed to convey this idea in my film in an enjoyable manner.

Let’s chat about the appearances in the music industry! How did you decide who would feature? Was it like sending a quick message to everyone on your contacts list?

To put it simply, I’ve utilized all the help I could muster, and you’ll likely find me collaborating on numerous tracks in the future as I owe favors galore. While sticking to the script, I aimed high with my aspirations – for instance, if we’re going for a “come-to-Jesus” dream sequence, could we secure Kirk Franklin?

I was astonished by how down-to-earth and welcoming everyone was towards joining the film, considering it was my debut movie. And I’m incredibly proud of the diverse cast we have here – what on earth is Jay Park, Diplo, Saweetie, and Earth, Wind & Fire doing in the same movie? It reminds me of “The Blues Brothers,” with its iconic cameos that are enjoyable surprises yet fit seamlessly into the narrative.

In our latest production, you’re sharing the screen with your 13-year-old boy, who’s making his debut in a full-length film for the first time. Could you tell us about working alongside him as a co-actor?

As a cinephile, I can’t help but admire his versatility, agility, and an innate charisma that seems effortless. He doesn’t overthink; instead, he trusts his gut instincts. What drew me to him for this role was the authenticity of our connection on those YouTube skits. I wanted the audience to experience the same emotions I felt during those creative sessions with him. Moreover, he’s not a polished actor who’s been trained for years; he’s just a kid, and that’s exactly what I needed for this part. He reminds me of the raw talent in films like “There Will Be Blood” and “School of Rock.” Those child actors are incredibly gifted, but they also feel genuine – you can tell they’re kids, and that authenticity is essential to me.

I was somewhat apprehensive as I thought he might not agree due to his demanding early-morning call times, dance rehearsals, and need for immediate learning. Additionally, films require a lot of time to produce, and as he grew older, we needed to modify the script in some areas so it would resonate with him and be something he could feel proud about. I didn’t want him to see it, dismiss it as awkward, decide never to participate again, and later regret his involvement.

Initially, when the lights and cameras were on, he was prepared and unfazed, despite the heavy burden of expectations. At times, he outperformed me noticeably; I’m grateful I got to work in the editing suite or else it might have appeared that I was inexperienced. Working with him was a moment I’ll always cherish as it ranks among my most significant collaborations – he stands head and shoulders above all the others I’ve worked with.

After creating numerous music videos and a family-focused feature film, what kind of films would you like to take on in the future?

Looking for films that are vibrant, encompassing sci-fi genres, biographical dramas about influential musicians or game-changers in music. I’m interested in creating movies that resonate emotionally, evoke feelings, and impart valuable lessons. I yearn to expand my knowledge and cultivate a unique style, and the best way to achieve this is by producing more work.

Last question: That running joke in which your character gets mistaken for Childish Gambino and André 3000 — is that based on real-life experiences?

Absolutely, it’s quite amusing when people mistake me for someone else! This has happened so often, where people are familiar with my music but not my face. That kind of self-effacing humor and the ability to laugh at oneself is something I’m comfortable with. However, perhaps they’ll recognize me after this, as following this, I’ll be a well-known movie star.

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2024-09-07 14:30