*Anderson .Paak is taking his creative talents to new heights with his latest project, K-Pops!, a heartfelt and comedic journey into the fast-paced world of Korean music competitions.*
The Grammy Award-winning musician not only stars in the film but also directed, co-wrote, and produced it. K-Pops! made its debut at the 2024 Toronto International Film Festival before securing U.S. distribution through Aura Entertainment, following its stateside premiere at the 2025 Tribeca Film Festival.
Produced in collaboration with Stampede Ventures and Live Nation Productions, the film features a dynamic cast including Jonnie “Dumbfoundead” Park, Yvette Nicole Brown, and .Paak’s real-life son, Soul Rasheed.
Storyline and Characters
- K-Pops!* follows BJ, played by Anderson .Paak, a musician determined to reignite his career. His path leads him to Seoul, where he joins the house band for a televised K-pop competition. In a twist of fate, BJ discovers that one of the contestants — Tae Young, portrayed by Rasheed — is actually his long-lost son.
The relationship forces both father and son to confront their cultural differences while finding common ground in music and performance.
Trailer Highlights
In the newly released trailer, audiences see BJ navigating the competitive and colorful environment of the fictional Korean music show Wildcard. A humorous exchange hints at BJ’s unfamiliarity with the K-pop scene, setting the tone for a film that blends comedy, drama, and cross-cultural discovery.
Inspiration Behind the Film
Speaking to The Hollywood Reporter, .Paak revealed that the concept for K-Pops! emerged during the COVID-19 lockdown. His son’s interest in becoming a YouTuber led to creative skit-making sessions, where .Paak observed Rasheed’s natural improvisational talent.
During this period, the family’s fascination with K-pop grew — a connection strengthened by their Korean heritage. “It hit me — what if I wasn’t in my son’s life, he grew up in Korea, and we had to reconnect while learning each other’s cultures?” .Paak explained. This idea became the foundation for K-Pops!’ blend of humor and heartfelt family dynamics.
Music and Production Team
Co-written by Anderson .Paak and Khaila Amazan, K-Pops! features original music created in partnership with acclaimed K-pop producer Dem Jointz. The film’s production credits include Greg Silverman and Jon Berg of Stampede Ventures, Jaeson Ma of EST Studios, and .Paak himself. Executive producers include industry heavyweights from Live Nation Productions, EST Studios, Full Stop Management, and more.
Release Date
K-Pops! will be released exclusively in AMC theaters on February 27, promising music lovers and film fans alike an energetic, culture-crossing cinematic experience.
