Meet Praheme | Filmmaker

We had the good fortune of connecting with Praheme and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Praheme, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
I’ve always wanted to own my films. I was inspired by witnessing my father own and operate a real estate company for over 30 years. Starting out in film, I knew working independently would give me the ability to create now and without needing permission. A desire to be your own boss and not be under anyone’s thumb.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I am a filmmaker. I write, direct and produce films. I think what set me apart from other is my vision and dedication to telling stories outside of the Black box. Growing up, I did not feel like content in the Black space represented me, my values or my aspirations. In that void is where I create.

My path started with learning the craft of filmmaking. I studied radio, tv, film at Howard University and later received my Master’s in film production from Florida State University. After schooling, I set out to make my first feature film Muddy Lions. This is one of my proudest achievements. I’m proud of all the work created, but Muddy Lions was a chance to impact the youth and as I took the film around the world, I witnessed it’s impact.

It has not been easy working independently and not coming from wealth or having industry connections. I’m still on my path, learning and continuing to grow as an artist. The journey has not been easy and there have been days where I thought of giving up. But I can’t shake the calling to create and share my gift with the world. It’s something my mother instilled in me. And honestly, I haven’t seen anyone cooking up with I have inside. I know and believe there is place for me and my work. When I face obstacles and things get hard, I keep writing. I keep creating. A lot of filmmaking can be expensive but writing is free of charge.

Praphetic Praductions is my film company and our philosophy is “iamWE”. I am because we are. I create stories about the Black experience in America, in the world. I try to tell the story from every element, the words, the actors, the music, the colors, etc. I make art for Black people to see themselves in ways they never imagined.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Favorite spots. With a new baby, it’s been a while since I’ve been in the streets but I’ll give it a try. I spend a lot of time in Baldwin Hills. Start the morning off with some exercise on the Baldwin Stairs and get our heart pumping. Then we can get some breakfast at Undergrind cafe in a chill area of Culver City. If they’ve never been to LA, I would take them to Hollywood and let them people watch. From there we could hit a comedy show. For drinks we can hit the Dime or live music and food I’ve enjoy the The District GS. A few other places I’d take them is Salt and Straw for ice cream. Leimert park on the weekend. The Grove. LACMA for some art.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I would like to dedicate my shoutout to my father, Joseph Earl Ricks. I would not be the man I am today without the love and support of my father. His presence, words of wisdom, constant encouragement and belief. My father invested in my first film Muddy Lions and help start my career.

My wife, Beth Ricks. She pushes me every day to be the best version of myself.

Website: praheme.com

Instagram: instagram.com/praheme

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/patrick-praheme-ricks-98393018/

Twitter: twitter.com/simply_prah

Facebook: facebook.com/praheme

Youtube: https://www.linkedin.com/in/patrick-praheme-ricks-98393018/

Other: www.troop491-movie.com wuifilm.com