Culture influences everything, from the food we eat to the way we live, and now, to the global phenomenon of K-pop. K-POPS! explores that message in a way that is comedic, sentimental, and filled with electrifying dance and music.
Anderson .Paak makes his directorial debut with K-POPS!, a film inspired by his real-life son, Soul Rasheed. Much like many fans worldwide, Rasheed fell in love with K-pop and dance, connecting with his Korean side and finding a passion that became the heartbeat of this project.
Not only is this .Paak’s first time directing, but both father and son star in the film as a fictional estranged father and son.
Not Jumping on a Bandwagon, Embracing the Roots
K-POPS! isn’t what you might expect. .Paak isn’t chasing a trend; he’s honoring culture. The film acknowledges the deep influence of Black culture on global music, weaving together genres like blues, gospel, rock and roll, house, and hip-hop throughout the story. These sounds blend with the fast-paced world of Korean pop.
From the “PAAK PAAK Chicken” references to intense K-pop survival show moments, the movie playfully yet respectfully immerses viewers into Korean entertainment culture while never losing sight of its musical origins.
The film centers around BJ (played by .Paak), a musician carrying the weight of a complicated past relationship and a rough career. In search of a comeback, he lands a gig in Seoul as part of the house band for a K-pop competition series, WILDCARD. While there, he discovers that his long-lost son, Tae Young (played by Soul Rasheed), is also competing for stardom.
The survival show format, dramatic edits, intense rehearsals, vocal and dance units, and the coveted “all-rounder” title, is portrayed with both humor and authenticity. From exaggerated replay moments to strict industry standards, K-POPS! delivers a surprisingly accurate “K-pop 101” for both longtime fans and newcomers.
A Star-Studded Cast & Premiere Night
The ensemble cast brings the story to life with both comedy and emotional depth. Cast members include:
- Jee Young Han (Unprisoned)
- Dumbfoundead
- Yvette Nicole Brown (Drake & Josh)
- Cathy Shim (Reno 911!)
- Kevin Woo
- & More!
The Knockturnal attended the red carpet premiere at The Grove on February 24, just days before the film’s global theatrical release in over 300 theaters.
The evening concluded with a Q&A and live performances by .Paak and Kevin Woo, featuring original songs from the film. Support from stars like Janelle Monáe and Mariah Carey highlighted the strong community behind the project.
The film features an impressive soundtrack blending Anderson .Paak’s signature soulful sound, reminiscent of his Silk Sonic era, with authentic K-pop production. Legendary K-pop producer DemJointz helped collaborate in the soundtrack with songs.
Adding to the excitement, superstar K-pop girl group aespa announced their collaboration song “Keychain” for the film, featuring Anderson .Paak.
Cameos:
K-POPS! effortlessly bridges industries and audiences with a lineup of unforgettable cameos. Appearances include:
- Vernon of Seventeen
- Jessi
- Jay Park
- The Rose
- IShowSpeed
- Saweetie
- Jaden Smith
- Diplo
- Earth, Wind & Fire
The film also nods to cultural staples like Korean busking traditions, variety programming such as PSICK Show, and even references to Squid Game, making it accessible and fun for both seasoned K-drama viewers and first-timers.
While vibrant and comedic on the surface, K-POPS! carries emotional weight. Themes of faith, absent parents, reconciliation, and sacrifice give the film real depth. Jee Young Han’s performance, in particular, delivers moments of genuine emotional resonance.
Beyond the premiere, the after-party at .Paak’s West Hollywood bar ‘Andy’s’ was a celebration of community, complete with themed “WILDCARS” playing cards, Pizza Hut classics, custom keychains, and a soundtrack of K-pop and soul beats filling the night.
Final Thoughts
K-POPS! successfully brings together K-pop, Korean culture, and Black musical heritage in a way that feels organic, celebratory, and sincere. It’s funny, emotional, musically rich, and visually dynamic.
As a business owner, producer, musician, father, and now director and writer, Anderson .Paak continues to evolve. What may have seemed like a risk, entering the K-pop space, becomes one of the film’s greatest strengths.
K-POPS! is not just for K-pop fans; it’s a film about connection, representation, and rediscovering family.
A phenomenal storyline, unforgettable choreography, meaningful cameos, and a soundtrack that bridges cultures, K-POPS! earns a 10/10. Whether you’re a devoted K-pop stan or simply love a heartfelt story, this film delivers.
Get Tickets HERE.
