ON DECK: H.wood Group Announces New Projects with Kid Cudi, Machine Gun Kelly and U.K. Rapper Skepta.
H.wood Group is making its next move in the film and TV space.
The company headed by John Terzian and Brian Toll — the go-to-guys for Los Angeles’ coveted tables at hot spots like Delilah, Bootsy Bellows and Bird Street Club — recently added a multimedia production arm to their hospitality company, announcing a film and TV schedule featuring projects with Kid Cudi and Machine Gun Kelly, among others.
First on the roster: a documentary about Skepta, the British grime rapper behind tracks like “Greaze Mode” and “Gas Me Up (Diligent)” from his upcoming LP, Knife and Fork. The project is described as “a stirring documentary about the artist focusing on themes of cultural identity and artistry.”
It’s set to be co-directed BAFTA nominee Hector Dockrill and produced by Terzian and Toll along with Dwight Okechukwu of 1PLUS1 Production.
Says Okechuku, “I am thrilled and excited about our new partnership with powerhouse h.wood media, based in Los Angeles. As we embark on this collaborative journey, I am truly excited about the endless possibilities that lie ahead.”
A rapper, actor, fashion designer and producer, 41-year-old Skepta’s journey as the son of Nigerian immigrants has helped define his career and connected him with millions.
In 2016, he refused the MBE from the Queen, instead accepting a chieftaincy title — Amuludun of Odo-Aje (“Chief Entertainer of Odo-Aje”) — in his parents’ hometown in Nigeria. In recognition of his impact, Skepta was honored with the Visionary Award at the 2024 Ivor Novello Awards.
“His story is one of modern identity, the immigrant experience of ‘growing up in a place that is not your home,’ mental health and finding one’s true self,” says Terzian. “His emotional and inspiring journey will resonate with audiences around the world, and we are honored he entrusted us to tell his story and work with us on future storytelling.” The doc will premiere in 2025.
S: Hollywood Reporter