A walk through tour of our main set on the film!
Free to Be Fathers was my first international co-production, and it required equal parts planning, nerve, and a little production magic. Working with a shoestring budget, I secured an entire floor of a downtown Detroit skyscraper and turned it into the world the story needed. Pulling that off still feels like a small miracle.
I also served as Director of Photography, building the film’s look around the location, Detroit’s character, and the resources we had. The project reminded me that production value is not always about having more money. It comes from smart choices, creative problem-solving, and a crew that trusts one another. We’re looking forward to bringing the film to audiences in 2027.
PROJECT DETAILS
Project: Free to Be Fathers
Format: Narrative film / international co-production
Year: 2026
Location: Detroit, Michigan
My roles: Producer and Director of Photography
Status: Planned release in 2027
Production note: An entire floor of a downtown Detroit skyscraper became the principal location
ABOUT DEREK
I’m a producer and cinematographer with more than 20 years of experience across feature films, documentaries, television, commercials, and branded content. I’m the founder of Kaifilms, where I work across development, financing, production, and cinematography to help projects move from the first conversation to the final frame.
Kaifilms: www.kaifilms.com
IMDb: www.imdb.me/derekmakesfilms
Contact: www.derek-johnson.com/contact
