My name is Erick McGee, and my journey into filmmaking has been anything but ordinary. Born in Mississippi, my fascination with film started at a very young age—by the time I was four, I was already lost in the stories and characters on the screen. Growing up, I was captivated by the iconic films of the 80s and the mysterious storytelling of shows like “The Twilight Zone,” which laid the groundwork for my passion for visual storytelling.

I initially pursued my studies in Entertainment Music Industry at the University of Southern Mississippi, setting my sights on a career in the music business. After a year of working as a manager in the industry, I directed one of my artist’s first music videos. It was during this project that something inside me clicked, reigniting the passion I’d always had for film and television. That experience reminded me of my first love—cinema—and I knew I had to make a change. I decided to transition fully into filmmaking, where I could blend my love for music and visual storytelling in a way that felt true to my creative spirit.

Moving to Atlanta, Georgia, marked a significant turning point in my career. Initially, I found work in the beauty industry, where I produced visually compelling content for various beauty brands. This work allowed me to hone my visual style and learn the importance of connecting with audiences through powerful imagery. As I grew more confident in my abilities, I transitioned into commercial filmmaking, collaborating with major brands like Samsung. My background in classic cinema heavily influenced my approach, and I often incorporated elements of nostalgia into my commercial work, setting my projects apart from the rest.

In 2021, I reached a significant milestone in my filmmaking journey with the release of my first theatrical short film, “Only You.” This project was deeply personal and marked a new chapter in my life as a filmmaker. “Only You” allowed me to delve deeper into complex narratives and character development, reaffirming my belief that storytelling is the heart of cinema.

Shortly after, my creative journey took an unexpected yet thrilling turn when I participated in the viral Wes Anderson challenge with a project I called "Wes Andy in the Hood." The content I created struck a chord with viewers, and it wasn’t long before my posts went viral on Instagram and TikTok. The buzz surrounding the project was incredible—I received comments from famous actors, celebrities, and even a comment from the official Oscars account under the post. The attention my work garnered led to an exciting feature in the Wall Street Journal, where my directorial style and unique approach to the challenge were highlighted.

This experience solidified my belief in the power of authentic storytelling and its ability to resonate with a wide audience. Moving forward, I’m committed to continuing to captivate viewers by telling stories from my unique perspective, especially those that explore the richness of minority cultures in a way that appeals to the world at large. My goal is to create work that not only entertains but also challenges perceptions and creates timeless classics that will be remembered for years to come. The journey has been incredible so far, and I’m eager to see what the future holds as I strive to make a lasting impact in the world of filmmaking.