Michael ‘BoogieVision’ Pinckney is a man on a mission to bring arts and fine entertainment to the urban scene. He is a veteran of the entertainment industry racking up in an impressive 15 plus years. He is the creator of such TV shows such as “The Trade” (recently screened at UrbanWorld Film Festival), “Swag”, “The Project”, and “The Colors of Love”, among many others. He has also worked on many acclaimed movie sets with legends such as Spike Lee. He comes to the game with a hunger to be the best he can possibly be. Armed with an impeccable work ethic and a focused artistic vision, he is poised to be at the top of the Hollywood heap very soon. We sat down with this talented artist to see just what makes him tick.
AM: How did you get into the filmmaking business?
MP: Well, I started out as a writer and I built it up from there. I work really hard at my craft and even though I consider myself a filmmaker, I consider myself a writer first. When you are a writer, filmmaking takes on a whole different meaning. The concept becomes materialized in your own brain and seeing it come to fruition is very satisfying.
AM: Who inspired you the most to become a filmmaker?
MP: The person who inspired me to become a filmmaker is probably Spike Lee. He is one of the most talented and efficient filmmakers around. He knows his game and is very successful at it. I knew when I worked with him that I was learning from the best. Also, I love Martin Scorsese and his style of filmmaking.
AM: Which audience are your shows and movies geared towards?
MP: My shows and films are mainly geared toward the urban audience. I love reaching all people, but especially the urban youth of today.
AM: Have you tried your hand at Hollywood and if so, how is that going?
MP: I am currently pitching concepts to Hollywood executives. I meet with them to discuss possible partnerships and deals. However, the right opportunity hasn’t opened up just yet. All I know is that I will keep trying my best and it will definitely happen.
AM: What would you tell the young filmmakers of today?
MP: I would tell any young, minority future filmmakers and artists alike to really learn your craft and keep at it. Also, it is important not to take no personally. It is also important to be fired up about what you do every single day.
AM: What advice would you give to up and coming artists who face discrimination in the business?
MP: I would always tell them to take that negativity and turn it into something positive. It should make them work harder. It should motivate them to put their nose to the grind stone, do their best, and shine even in the face of adversity.
AM: Who is your mentor in the film industry?
MP: I have been doing this for over 15 years so I’m at the point now where I mentor other people. Of course, Spike Lee was a great mentor to me and taught me well, so now I can pass that knowledge along to other young filmmakers.
AM: What projects do you have in the works now?
MP: I am now transitioning primarily from filmmaking into television. That has just become a natural progression for me. In fact, I am currently pitching shows like “The Trade” to networks, and I am really looking for the right fit. I know that will happen as long as I am persistent and do good work.
AM: Thank you so much for taking the time to chat with us. You are truly an inspiration for those who are both coming up in the business and those who already established.
MP: Thank you very much also. It was a pleasure to speak to you and share my vision with others as well.
You can find out more about what Michael is up to at www.blacknoisemedia.com.
