Atlanta’s film scene was buzzing in 2016, and at its core was Kareem “Gorilla” Davis. This is his rollercoaster ride through Hollywood.
“In 2016, you couldn’t tell me I wasn’t the biggest up-and-coming film director in Atlanta,” Davis says. “Hot off of my first feature film in Florida, I was embarking on my most exciting project yet. I published a fiction novel, turned it into a screenplay, and began the casting process with my then-wife. Sponsorships, auditioning royalty, and callbacks were coming like a tidal wave.”
But what started as a dream project quickly turned into a crash course in cancel culture.
Davis was the guy who worked magic behind the camera. He had a knack for fostering untapped talent in others. He started young, helping shape award-winning artists when he was barely old enough to drive, and later molding emerging names into Hollywood heartthrobs. With a proven track record of unearthing potential, making stars wasn’t just his job — it was his gift.
But at his apex, a problematic past marred his ascension, as issues arose stemming from a mix of angry investors, disgruntled actors he’d worked with, and a complicated divorce created a whirlwind of personal strife.
“It’s the people who you’re seemingly closest to, nicest to, and root for the hardest that have the most ammunition against you” he says. Davis believed in being real, raw, and being open about his own struggles. “You see, I am a very honest and transparent individual. I believe by sharing my journey and hardships with the world, I can inspire people to trust the process.”
“Yeah, I’ve messed up,” Davis admits. “I’ve stepped on toes, had deals go south. But I’ve also gone all in — selling gear to pay back investors, skipping my own bills to keep my crew afloat. Success ain’t a straight line,” he says, reflecting on his experiences.
Rather than bowing out, Davis stuck to his guns. “The real deal doesn’t need a defense,” he says, inviting scrutiny from his detractors while remaining steadfast in his work.
Through the hurdles, Davis remains resourceful, transforming seeming disadvantages into a demonstration of efficiency and the ability to lead despite adversity. Accustomed to the struggle of working with limited resources, Davis has hesitated when presented with a wealth of resources. It developed into a completely unorthodox method of shooting films that’s served him well.
While Imperium Features might be considered an underdog in the industry compared to major studios with blockbuster budgets, it is their close-knit team mentality that’s allowed them to develop a high-concept, low-investment strategic approach to creative production sets the company apart. Guided by the meticulous direction of Davis, Imperium Features strives to reshape the standards for efficiency and excellence in the film industry.
Next, Davis is gearing up for his upcoming action thriller, Broken Things, which is currently in pre-production. The film follows a ruthless businessman whose son unintentionally hires a hitman to instill a moral transformation in his father.
Expressing his anticipation for the project, Kareem states, “I’m really excited about this one. It’s reminiscent of the films that inspired me as a young boy, and it’s something that you don’t see very much in the forefront these days. The intensity and suspense of a high-stakes action thriller blended with social commentary on what it means to be a father and a success in today’s world will hit home.”
Developed by Imperium Features, the film is being produced by Stephanie Paige, Yoel Kanchelov, and Paul Stavropoulos, with 5120 Entertainment Eugene Parker as Executive Producer. Additional production support will be overseen by Don Hale Jr. for 5120 Entertainment, with collaborative assistance from Avron A.P. Payne.
Beyond filmmaking, Davis has recently secured a podcasting deal with Filmatic to produce The Hardest. The podcast promises a deep dive into the world of filmmaking and the arts, exploring the profound impact of cinema on contemporary culture, with the premiere episode set for mid-2024.
In preparation for the next phase of his career, Davis stands firm, letting his art speak his truth as a reminder that he won’t allow the past to derail his future. The highs and lows of his journey are a testament to his conviction to the work, sticking to the hustle even when life can be unforgiving.
