Grammy-winning musician Anderson .Paak has taken a major step beyond the music world with the release of his directorial debut film, K-Pops! — a heartwarming and music-driven story that blends culture, comedy, and family in a way that’s resonating with audiences and critics alike. The movie, which premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival in 2024, is now scheduled for a wide theatrical release in the United States on February 27, 2026, bringing Paak’s unique creative vision to the global stage.
K-Pops! follows BJ, a washed-up Los Angeles musician played by Paak himself, who is trying to revive his stalled career by taking a gig with a music competition show’s house band in Seoul, South Korea. On the way, BJ unexpectedly reunites with his long-lost son, Tae Young, who happens to be a contestant on the same show. What begins as a quest to reclaim musical relevance evolves into a touching journey of reconnection, understanding, and blending of cultures — all set against the backdrop of the dynamic world of K-pop.
What makes this cinematic venture stand out is how personal and culturally immersive it is. Paak drew inspiration from his own life, including his K-pop-infused pandemic bonding with his son and his own Korean heritage through his mother, and wove those experiences into a narrative that celebrates family ties and the universal language of music.
Critics and early audiences have responded positively to K-Pops!. The movie holds an 89 per cent “Fresh” rating on Rotten Tomatoes, with reviewers praising its feel-good energy, cross-cultural humor, and heart-centered storytelling that unites disparate musical traditions. The film’s soundtrack and score, crafted to reflect a fusion of K-pop rhythms with Paak’s signature soul and funk, further underline its creative ambition.
In interviews, Paak has spoken candidly about the challenges and rewards of making his first feature film. He described the process of writing the script, acting, navigating the complexities of K-pop production structures, and composing original music as both “insane” and deeply rewarding. His hope is that K-Pops! motivates audiences not just to enjoy music, but also to explore new sounds and reconnect with loved ones through shared cultural experiences.
The cast brings a rich mix of talent to the screen. Alongside Paak and his real-life son Soul Rasheed, the film features actors like Jee Young Han, Jonnie “Dumbfoundead” Park, and Yvette Nicole Brown, as well as cameo appearances by several K-pop artists and cultural figures, which enhances its authenticity and global appeal.
Critics have noted that while the story hinges on familiar comedy-drama beats, its charm lies in the genuine cross-cultural dialogue and the way it joyfully portrays musical passion bridging seemingly distant worlds. There’s a sense of affection and respect for both Black musical heritage and contemporary Korean pop culture that sets the film apart from typical genre fare.
For Paak, this project isn’t just a creative statement — it’s a personal journey. By intertwining his own family experiences, musical roots, and respect for global culture, K-Pops! represents a story that’s rooted in identity, connection, and the joy of artistic collaboration.
As K-Pops! makes its way into theaters this month, audiences around the world are excited to witness a film that not only presents lively performances and heartfelt humor but also stands as a reminder of how music can unite people across continents and generations.