A Conversation with Roderick McClure

What led you to create RodFather Productions?

My journey as a filmmaker originated from my love of movies and the temporary escape they provided from the real world. Going to the movies with my wife was our regular date-night ritual. I knew at some point my journey would lead towards producing film projects.  My goal at the time was to focus on my family, my business career, and personal ministry.  Producing movies would have to wait. My opportunity came years later when I was presented with the script, which led to our first feature, “Both Eyes Open” starring Gail Bean, Joy Brunson, Taye Diggs, and Tristan Mac Wilds. The movie received instant success.

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You’ve been called a game changer and a disruptor in entertainment… What does that mean to you?

I earned the nickname RodFather due to my capacity to get things done quickly.  I don’t overthink things. I am willing to take risks because I have confidence in my ability to identify opportunities and act on them. I like working with new talent, and I love to create opportunities for first-timers. I am also willing to invest in projects that excite me. This allows us to produce multiple projects per year without being delayed due to a lack of funding or waiting for network approval. It sometimes takes independent producers 2-5 years to land funding for a project. Often, most projects never see the day. I like making things happen.

To make a great movie, it requires a number of things coming together. I was able to assemble a great script, a great cast, a great crew, and a great director. This paved the way for creating something special. Many of us were working in positions for the first time. The movie went on to become the number one movie on Starz, which is unheard of for a first-time film producer. It was exhilarating bringing all of this together.

How meaningful is it that RodFather Productions is a family run business?

Chemistry is everything in this business. We understand what needs to be done without getting stuck on minutia. My son-in-law, Josh Ferell, and my daughter, Morgan Kokaram, bring unique skills to the table. When we come together, it’s all about creating and executing at high levels to produce quality content in the right atmosphere.

Atlanta has become a major production hub for film and TV. Do you see the demand increasing?

Atlanta has clearly established itself as a viable production hub. We have the infrastructure, talent, and technical skills to support major productions and independent films.  But we do need the continued support of local and state governments to encourage more film production. I am hopeful that we will regain momentum and remain the best place for films. I also believe there is a tremendous opportunity available for independent production companies to move content, while the larger companies wrestle with financial demands and investor concerns in an ever-evolving industry.

What do you think Atlanta offers that Los Angeles doesn’t?

I think of affordability. Everything in LA is expensive.  I also think the people here are hungry for opportunities and provide outstanding service and support to the industry.

You’re from Alabama originally but have lived in Atlanta for many years.  What do you love most about the city?

I love living in such a diverse city! The blending of cultures, experiences, and perspectives is energizing. The cityscapes and the diverse neighborhoods and communities are perfect for filming. I’m also a huge sports fan. I love the Hawks, Falcons, and Braves. I am trying to learn more about the United, and I am looking forward to the World Cup.

What are some of your favorite restaurants in Atlanta?

Chops, Houston’s, Yebo, Yeppa, and Del Bar are some of the restaurants my wife and I frequent.

When actors are in town for a RodFather project, where do you like to take them?  

We usually hang out in the Buckhead area because it’s near my home and there are over fifty restaurants to choose from. I am a Hawks season ticket holder, so you can also catch us on the center court at a Hawks basketball game.

Lastly, what’s next for RodFather?

We just finished filming our second production. It’s a romantic comedy called Funny Feelings. This movie is a throwback to the rom-coms of the nineties, like Love & Basketball and Love Jones.  It stars Pretty Vee and Tristan Mack Wilds.  We are in post-production now and expect to release the film in spring 2026. We are also developing a series and a children’s animation project.