Meet Derrick Peprah: Founder of PepFilmStudios and Visionary Behind Oakland’s Independent Film Movement
When you hear the name Derrick Peprah, it is becoming synonymous with independent filmmaking in Oakland, California. As the founder of PepFilmStudios, Derrick has built a creative hub that is not only producing original stories, but also bringing together local talent and community voices to the screen.
Portrait of Derrick Peprah, Ghanaian-American filmmaker, actor, and founder of PepFilmStudios (2025)
From Ghana to Oakland
Ghana West Africa
Born in Ghana and raised in the United States, Derrick identifies as a Ghanaian-American filmmaker. His cultural background and personal journey have deeply influenced his perspective on storytelling, resilience, and the importance of community. After moving to Oakland, Derrick poured his energy into building PepFilmStudios, determined to create a space where authentic voices could thrive.
Building PepFilmStudios
PepFilmStudios Logo
In 2025, PepFilmStudios officially established itself as an independent production company rooted in Oakland. What started as a small idea has now become a brand with multiple projects in development, including the feature film The Migos, the comedy mockumentary series Broken Palms Apartments, and the upcoming satirical animated feature Oh! Lake Merritt.
PepFilmStudios is built on one principle: community storytelling. Derrick believes that the best stories come from lived experiences and that film has the power to unite people, spark conversation, and reflect real life.
A Filmmaker, Writer, and Director
Derrick Peprah, independent filmmaker and director, photographed in Oakland, California (2025)
Derrick’s filmmaking journey is unique because he wears many hats. He writes, directs, produces, and even acts in his own films. His creative process blends scripted storytelling with improvisation, giving actors freedom to bring their own voices into the work.
“Film is more than just entertainment,” Derrick explains. “It is memory, emotion, and vision captured on screen. Every project I take on is about representing Oakland and the stories of people who don’t always get heard.”
Recent Projects and Achievements
The Migos, Film Poster
The Migos (feature film, 2025): A revenge thriller set in Oakland, currently in post-production.
Broken Palms Apartments (mockumentary sitcom, 2025): A comedy series capturing the chaos of tenants and leasing office drama.
Oh! Lake Merritt (animated satire, in development): A political and cultural commentary told through the story of a duck society.
With the trailer for The Migos surpassing 100,000 Instagram views in under a month, PepFilmStudios has quickly gained recognition as one of Oakland’s most ambitious indie film studios.
Looking Ahead
Derrick is not stopping at films. He envisions PepFilmStudios as a growing creative ecosystem that will nurture new actors, filmmakers, and community voices across the Bay Area. Through workshops, screenings, and collaborations, he plans to turn PepFilmStudios into a household name for independent cinema.
Follow the Journey
Audiences can expect more news as PepFilmStudios prepares for the premiere of The Migos on October 25, 2025, at The New Parkway Theater in Oakland.
Stay updated on PepFilmStudios’ projects and Derrick’s journey by following on Instagram, YouTube, and through the official website.
