Universal Pictures has made a three-year deal with Will Packer, the man behind successful Black films such as ‘Stomp The Yard’, ‘Takers’, ‘Obsessed’ and ‘Think Like A Man’.
According to Deadline, Packer is launching a new production company, Will Packer Productions, which will be moving to the Universal lot. In his new position he will be an active buyer of pitches and specs for comedies, dramas and thrillers.
Packer built his business with urban films, but now that he’s at Universal, he can broaden his portfolio.
The studio picked up on Packer’s talent while working with him on his upcoming film, “Ride Along,” which stars Ice Cube and Kevin Hart and is expected to hit theaters January 17, 2014.
“Will is driven by a boundless energy that drives his relationships and permeates his films,” said Universal Pictures chairman Donna Langley. “We’ve cherished our experience working with him on ‘Ride Along’ and cannot wait to collaborate with him on more films in the years to come.”
Packer’s ‘Stomp The Yard’, ‘Takers’, ‘Obsessed’ and ‘Think Like A Man’ opened in the top weekend slot in U.S. box offices.
In addition to “Ride Along,” Packer’s upcoming film, “About Last Night,” stars Michael Ealy, Joy Bryant, Regina Hall and Kevin Hart.
