In the ever-changing and unpredictable world of
filmmaking, it’s a wonder that directors and producers can remain
dedicated to a dream. With faith, immense talent and an earnest desire
to expand the scope of urban films, Rainforest Films Inc. has
persevered the treachery of Hollywood to establish itself as one of the
entertainment industry’s premier film production companies. Co-owned by
Florida A&M alums, Rob Hardy and Will Packer, Rainforest launched
in 1994. Currently based in Atlanta, Georgia, the company is credited
with box-office hits such as Stomp the Yard and This Christmas.
Their recently released thriller, Obsessed, features NAACP Image
Award-winning actor Idris Elba, Grammy Award-winning singer Beyoncé,
and actress Ali Larter.
For
Packer, who is in charge of securing financing for the studio and
overseeing various distribution projects, the moviemaking process has
exposed him to dealing with the woes of Hollywood. When asked how he
stays creative and sharp while forging ahead in the industry, he
replies, “Obviously, by knowing that I am not where I want to be yet,
I’m very ambitious and I know that I still have a lot of goals.”
Packer’s
plans for the future include working on various movie projects and a
new television show. He cautions that being a producer or director in
the film industry constantly challenges one to to stay ahead of trends.
He adds that mentorship helped him with his career, and encourages
others in their respective fields to mentor someone. “A lot of people
only get an opportunity to reach their goals through relationships they
build with people who are already established in what they wish to do.
So it is up to us to mold the next crop of talent,” he states.
Hopefully, his colleagues are listening and are willing to follow his
lead. –dawn alicia montgomery
