Today we’d like to introduce you to Asif Akbar

Hi Asif, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.

I’m Asif Akbar, an accomplished, dependable, and visionary young filmmaker, and I’m proud to say that I continue to make waves in the global film industry with every project I undertake. As a director, I’ve had the privilege of working with legendary Hollywood talent such as Mel Gibson, Mickey Rourke, Terrence Howard, Cuba Gooding Jr., Sally Kirkland, Udo Kier, Randy Couture, Frank Grillo, 50 Cent, Michael Jai White, and many others.

My career has been marked by a string of diverse and unique independent films, including my upcoming highly anticipated project, “Boneyard,” which is set to be released by Lionsgate in the summer of 2024. “Boneyard” is a thrilling serial killer thriller that promises to captivate audiences with its suspenseful storyline and gripping performances. In this film, I serve as the director, co-writer, and producer, showcasing my multifaceted talent and creative vision. Collaborating with the legendary Academy Award-winning actor, Mel Gibson, has been a significant milestone in my career. Working alongside someone like Mel is undoubtedly a highlight for me, demonstrating my ability to attract and collaborate with top-tier talent.

My dedication to my craft and my commitment to continuously grow and level up with each project have propelled me to new heights in the global film industry. With every film, I push boundaries and explore new storytelling techniques, solidifying my reputation as a versatile and innovative filmmaker.

I’ve had previous successes, such as bringing the iconic South Asian intellectual property, the Masud Rana novel series, to international film audiences with “MR-9: Do or Die” and its upcoming sequel “MR-9: Sky Dancer,” which have garnered me recognition and acclaim. These achievements, along with my collaboration with Mel Gibson in “Boneyard,” serve as stepping stones for my continued growth in the industry.

My 2022 film, “The Commando,” featuring Mickey Rourke and Michael Jai White, proved to be a remarkable success, captivating audiences and earning the number one spot on Hulu’s streaming platform for three consecutive weeks.

In addition to my directorial work, I’ve produced over 35 films that have achieved worldwide distribution and sales. My ability to seamlessly transition between roles as a director, writer, and producer showcases my versatility and adaptability, allowing me to deliver films that resonate deeply with audiences around the world. With over two decades of experience working on mainstream feature films, collaborating with well-recognized and respected veterans in the industry has allowed me to establish a strong foundation and expertise in the global film arena over the past 15 years.

Born in Khulna, Bangladesh, and raised in Cleveland, OH, USA, filmmaking has always been my passion. Inspired by my father, Enayet Akbar Milon, who was involved in the international entertainment industry, I knew from a young age that I wanted to follow in his footsteps.

My passion for filmmaking sparked in the early 90s when I was just a young boy in grade school, making my own movies using a home handy cam and editing tape-to-tape video. I gained practical experience by participating in my father’s professionally produced productions in Bangladesh, both in front of and behind the camera. After moving to Los Angeles at the age of 18 in 2007, I continued my formal education at Columbia College Hollywood, where I earned a Bachelor’s degree in Fine Arts, focusing on directing in Cinema and Television productions.

My journey in the global film industry is a testament to my unwavering dedication and pursuit of excellence. With each project, I continue to grow, leveling up my skills and leaving an indelible mark on the industry. I look forward to my future endeavors as I take on new challenges and continue to push boundaries, solidifying my status as a rising star in the global film arena.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?

Making a career in Hollywood, one of the most competitive industries in the world, has been no small feat for me. Coming from Bangladesh then Ohio, without any family, friends, or a history in the industry meant that I faced significant obstacles as a minority trying to navigate a landscape filled with established players. I had to work extra hard to carve out my space among the big sharks in California. There were moments of doubt and uncertainty, but I persevered, never losing confidence in my vision and abilities. I invested not just my time but also my belief in myself, pushing through the challenges and setbacks. My passion for storytelling fueled my determination to keep going, as I remained committed to pursuing my dreams of becoming a filmmaker who shares compelling narratives with the world. Each struggle only strengthened my resolve, proving to me that with hard work and dedication, I could overcome the odds and make my mark in this industry.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?

My specialty lies in writing and directing films, where I find immense joy in creating compelling stories and then executing them on screen to bring those narratives to life. There’s something profoundly fulfilling about taking a concept from its inception and transforming it into a visual experience that resonates with audiences. While my primary focus has been on directing, I also became a producer by default at an early age, which has allowed me to hone my skills in a different capacity. In fact, I have produced more films than I have directed, and this dual experience has enriched my understanding of the filmmaking process. It has equipped me with a comprehensive perspective on how to effectively manage projects, collaborate with diverse talents, and ensure that every aspect of a film aligns with my creative vision. This multifaceted approach not only enhances my storytelling but also empowers me to drive projects to completion, ensuring that each film is a true reflection of my artistic intent.

Are there any important lessons you’ve learned that you can share with us?

Throughout my journey in the film industry, I’ve faced some very tough lessons that I learned the hard way, often stemming from trusting the wrong people. There were instances where I put my faith in individuals whose intentions didn’t align with my vision or values, leading to setbacks and disappointments. However, I’ve come to realize that dwelling on these negatives only hinders growth. Instead, I’ve learned to pick up the positive pieces from each experience, using them as stepping stones for my future endeavors. Embracing resilience has been crucial; it has taught me to approach each challenge with a renewed perspective and to foster a deeper understanding of the importance of surrounding myself with trustworthy collaborators. By focusing on the lessons rather than the losses, I can continue to move forward, stronger and more determined to pursue my passion for storytelling.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.asifakbarfilms.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/asifakbar_filmmaker?igsh=MXZ3b293bmR2MjRkbQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
• Other: https://m.imdb.com/name/nm2973729/

Image Credits

Asif Akbar attend the “Boneyard” special screening on June 26, 2024 in Santa Monica, California. (Photo by Vivien Killilea/Getty Images for Lionsgate)