International production company Stink Films has added director Rick Darge to its U.S. roster for commercials, music videos, and branded content.
Darge began his career as an editor, cutting everything from feature-length films to documentaries, commercials to television specials. From editing, he moved into cinematography, where he worked on Satacracy 88 which earned two Daytime Emmy nominations, winning for Outstanding Broadband Program–Drama. The other nod was for a team including Darge in the Outstanding New Approaches–Daytime Entertainment category. Before long, Darge transitioned into writing and directing with the film Zen Dog, which won Film of the Festival at the Raindance International Film Festival, along with several other national accolades.
Born in New Jersey and raised in Northern California, Darge discovered filmmaking at an early age. Inspired by his childhood hero Mel Brooks, he often enlisted family members and friends to star in his short films and fake infomercials. In high school, Darge directed music videos, shorts, documentaries, and an indie feature called Broken Strings. Darge went on to attend the University of Southern California and earn a BA in Cinema-Television. As an alumnus of Upright Citizens Brigade and a creator of numerous short films, Darge brings his satirical and often thought-provoking comedic chops to his range of work, including with his creative partnerships, Pretty Gross and Spooky Bonus.
“We’re here to laugh,” said Darge. “That’s my worldview, really. Taking the darkness and transforming it into something positive is what motivates me. I’m excited to do exactly that at Stink and make great content. They’re incredible, and I’m eager to start this next chapter of my career with them.”
“Rick uses his filmmaking to create a sort of relief amid life’s chaos,” said Daniel Bergmann, founder of Stink Films. “He makes his audience laugh and relax, even if it’s only for a few moments. He’s an outstanding addition to our roster and we’re thrilled to have him join us and continue to inspire and incite with his comedy stylings.”
Darge was previously represented by Future Park. He resides in Los Angeles.
