Integrated production company Big Block has added actor, comedian and Emmy Award-winning filmmaker Michael Rapaport to its directorial roster for exclusive commercial representation.
Rapaport is equally known for his low-key, streetwise persona as he is for the memorable comedic and dramatic roles he’s played on film and television. Currently, Rapaport stars on the TNT show Public Morals, executive produced by Steven Spielberg. His penchant for trash talking has also proven to be radio gold as the host of his own stereo podcast “I Am Rapaport” and as a frequent guest on the Howard Stern Show on Sirius, especially on the subject of the staff’s fantasy football picks.
Rapaport brings that upfront sensibility to directing, a quality that harmonizes with clients and brands wanting to engage with the viewer on an authentic level. He frequently helms documentary-style projects. A quintessential New Yorker, Rapaport’s ties to the community and culture frequently emerge within his work. His debut feature documentary Beats, Rhymes & Life: The Travels of a Tribe Called Quest explores the history and living legacy of the seminal Queens-based hip hop group. The 2011 film screened at the Tribeca and Sundance Film Festivals to rave reviews.
Rapaport enjoyed another Tribeca premiere with his film When the Garden was Eden created for ESPN’s celebrated “30 for 30” series. The piece, which won Rapaport the 2014 Emmy Award, looks back at the 1970s championship-winning New York Knicks led by Earl Monroe, Walt Frazier, and Willis Reed. Other sports-related projects for major brands include a monochromatic tribute to street basketball in “For The Love of the Game” for Coors Light, and a striking glimpse at the diverse clientele who train at Manny Pacquiao’s gym, the Wild Card Boxing Club, for American Giant.
“I’m a huge fan of Michael’s work both on and off-screen,” said Kenny Solomon, managing director of Big Block. “He really fits our sweet spot. Mike brings that charm, charisma and singular personality to everything he does, whether it be his podcast, radio, television or feature film work.”
Rapaport rounds out a Big Block lineup which also includes directors Paul Trillo, Josh + Vince, The Bozzwicks, and Shaun Collings.
