Bay Area Filmmaker Derrick Peprah Launches New Dating Series “Hearts on the Table” — Hosted by Poet Tina Marie
OAKLAND, CA — Bay Area filmmaker Derrick Peprah, the creative force behind PepFilmStudios, is set to release a brand-new dating series titled “Hearts on the Table.” The highly anticipated series officially drops Saturday, December 13th on YouTube, with plans to expand to Tubi shortly after.
“Hearts On The Table” - Still Photo (2025)
“Hearts on the Table” blends authentic dating conversations with cinematic storytelling, offering viewers a raw, intimate look at modern romance. Directed, produced, and created by Derrick Peprah, the show brings his signature Oakland-flavored filmmaking style to the dating genre.
“Hearts On The Table” Participant “Sekani” - Still Photo (2025)
A Unique Dating Experiment with Bay Area Soul
Unlike traditional reality dating shows, “Hearts on the Table” puts two strangers face-to-face over a game of pool. As they play, they ask real questions, flirt, joke, and reveal who they truly are. After the date, both participants sit for a confessional interview where they drop their guards and speak honestly about sparks, red flags, and their first impressions.
“Hearts On The Table” Participant - Still Photo (2025)
The series is hosted by Tina Marie, a notable Bay Area poet known for her emotional spoken-word performances and community presence. Her warm personality and artistic voice bring a soulful layer to the show’s tone.
“Hearts On The Table” Host: Tina Maria - Still Photo (2025)
Derrick Peprah & PepFilmStudios Continue Expanding
“Hearts on the Table” marks the latest project from PepFilmStudios, the rising Oakland film studio led by Derrick Peprah, whose creative range now includes feature films, sitcoms, animated projects, and reality-style dating experiments.
“Hearts On The Table” Still Photo (2025)
Peprah continues to build momentum in the independent filmmaking world, known for his ability to tell bold, culturally rich stories on both small and large scales. His past work includes We The Migos (coming soon), Broken Palms Apartments (Sitcom), and the animated satire Invasion of Lake Merritt.
With “Hearts on the Table,” Peprah expands PepFilmStudios’ footprint into unscripted romance, blending cinematic visuals with real-life dating experiences.
“Hearts On The Table” - Still Photo (2025)
Release Details
Title: Hearts on the Table
Created/Directed/Produced by: Derrick Peprah (PepFilmStudios)
Host: Tina Marie (Bay Area poet)
Premiere: Saturday, December 13
Platform: YouTube (Tubi release coming soon)
Studio: PepFilmStudios – Oakland, California
A New Bay Area Dating Experience
“Hearts on the Table” aims to celebrate connection, culture, and conversation — all through the creative vision of a rising Oakland filmmaker dedicated to telling stories that feel real and relatable.
“Hearts On The Table” Participant Still Photo (2025)
Fans can follow Derrick Peprah and PepFilmStudios on social media for updates, behind-the-scenes content, casting calls, and future releases.
“Hearts On The Table” Trailer 2025

