Episode 55: Freeman Hospitality with Michael Cooke

Step into the vibrant world of award-winning director and cinematographer Michael Cooke, hailing from the heart of Atlanta, Georgia. This podcast invites you to explore the remarkable career of a creative visionary whose talent spans the commercial, narrative, and documentary realms, leaving an indelible mark on the world of visual storytelling.

Michael's journey began in 2007 when he entered the realm of music videos, serving as a director of photography for some of hip-hop's most prominent figures. Over the years, he honed his craft as a freelance cinematographer, lending his lens to the dynamic world of music videos. However, his trajectory would soon shift as he transitioned into the director's chair, crafting compelling commercials for global giants like Apple, American Express, and Walmart.

In the past decade, Michael Cooke has emerged as one of the industry's most sought-after independent directors, having helmed numerous projects across various genres. His focus has evolved towards the art of narrative storytelling, culminating in his directorial debut with the short film "Across the Tracks" in 2014. This crowdfunded endeavor would go on to win accolades including the Best Diaspora Short Film at the African Movie Academy Awards and Best Short Film at the UK's Music Video and Screen Awards, cementing Michael's status as a rising star. 

A fervent commitment to stories with social relevance and profound meaning is the hallmark of Michael's craft. Currently, he is navigating the festival circuit with two recent projects: "Freeman Hospitality," a short pilot/film exploring the world of a black security service set in 2055, and "Yogurt Raisin," a narrative that confronts themes of race, identity, and over-policing on the eve of a groom's wedding.

Whether directing or wielding his camera, Michael Cooke's mission is to craft visuals that linger in viewers' minds for years to come. Join us in this podcast as we unravel the artistry and vision of a filmmaker whose work transcends boundaries, leaving a lasting impact on cinema. 

This is the story of Michael Cooke, where each frame is a canvas for storytelling, and every project is a testament to the enduring power of visual narrative.