PepFilmStudios: Derrick Peprah’s Vision for Community-Driven Independent Filmmaking in Oakland

Every film studio begins with a vision, and for Derrick Peprah, founder of PepFilmStudios, that vision was clear: to create a home for authentic, community-rooted storytelling in Oakland, California.

Why PepFilmStudios Was Created

PepFilmStudios Official Logo (2025)

As a Ghanaian-American filmmaker, actor, and writer, Derrick Peprah has always believed in the power of film to reflect real people and real stories. Too often, the voices and experiences of local communities go unseen in mainstream media. PepFilmStudios was created to change that to bring stories from Oakland and the Bay Area to the screen with honesty, passion, and creativity.

Portrait of Derrick Peprah - Ghanaian American Filmmaker (2025)

What Makes PepFilmStudios Different

Photo of PepFilmStudios Fundraiser Event (2025)

While many production companies focus on big budgets or commercial trends, PepFilmStudios takes a different approach. Every project is built with resourcefulness, collaboration, and heart. By blending scripted narratives with moments of improvisation, PepFilmStudios creates films and series that feel alive, raw, and true to the people they represent.

This isn’t just about filmmaking, it’s about movement building. The studio is a place where actors, writers, and creatives from the community can come together, experiment, and grow. It is proof that powerful stories don’t require Hollywood-sized resources just vision, dedication, and community support.

The Community Connection

Photo of PepFilmStudios Community Event (2025)

Community is at the heart of PepFilmStudios. From fundraisers like A Night With The Migos to premieres that double as celebrations of local talent, every event is about more than a film it’s about bringing people together.

“Our work has always been for the people who support us,” says Derrick Peprah. “Without Oakland, without our friends, family, and neighbors, there is no PepFilmStudios. Everything we create is tied to this city and its energy.”

Building the Future

With projects like The Migos, Broken Palms Apartments, and Oh! Lake Merritt, PepFilmStudios is just getting started. The goal isn’t just to release films, but to create a sustainable ecosystem where independent artists can thrive.

The vision for PepFilmStudios is clear: to become a cornerstone of Oakland storytelling, representing the voices of the Bay Area while inspiring other communities to tell their own stories.

From the Founder

Portrait of Derrick Peprah: Founder of PepFilmStudios

“As I look back at what we’ve built so far, I feel proud but also hungry for what’s next. PepFilmStudios was never just about me it’s about us. Every actor, every crew member, every person who has shown up to a fundraiser or premiere is part of this story. My mission is to keep creating films that reflect our lives, our struggles, and our joy, while opening doors for the next generation of storytellers.” — Derrick Peprah

Be Part of the Journey

PepFilmStudios invites everyone to follow the journey, attend screenings, support fundraisers, and share the stories being created. Together, we can continue building a movement of independent film rooted in truth, culture, and community.

Follow us on Instagram and YouTube, and visit pepfilmstudios.com for updates on projects, premieres, and behind-the-scenes stories.