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William Clevinger is an established film producer who gained recognition for his most recent film, "Cut Throat City." The film, directed by RZA, featured a star-studded cast including Terrence Howard, Wesley Snipes, Kat Graham, Rob Morgan, Shameik Moore, and Ethan Hawke. Despite facing challenges due to the pandemic, the film reopened theaters in August 2020 and received critical acclaim internationally. While it initially made just over 1 million in cinemas, it found its audience when it debuted on Netflix in January 2021, securing the top spot and remaining in the Top 10 for the entire month. "Cut Throat City" also performed well in various countries across the globe, solidifying Clevinger's success as a producer.
Clevinger's passion for film and sports began to intensify when he was diagnosed with life-threatening Lyme disease. During his time at home, films became his companions. Every Friday evening, his grandmother took him to the local movie theater in Ocala, Florida, to watch the latest blockbusters. It was during this period that he developed a deep appreciation for filmmakers like Steven Soderbergh and Robert Rodriguez. Rodriguez's book, "Rebel Without A Crew, or How a 23-year-old filmmaker with $7,000 became a Hollywood Player," had a profound impact on Clevinger. He read it repeatedly, highlighting numerous sentences, and it served as a source of inspiration for his entry into the film industry.
Once his health improved, Clevinger wasted no time and enrolled at Full Sail University in Winter Park, Florida, to pursue his filmmaking dreams. With an unparalleled drive and the ability to connect with others, he completed his education by the age of 20 and then moved to Los Angeles. Armed with a budget of $35,000 and drawing from the knowledge he gained from Rodriguez's book, Clevinger produced a low-budget zombie horror thriller called "Automaton Transfusion." This project eventually secured a studio distribution deal, leading to Clevinger's early success in the industry.
Over the past 19 years, Clevinger has produced over 25 successful independent projects in film, television, and digital media. With the critical and commercial success of "Cut Throat City" and the valuable relationships he has built throughout his career, Clevinger co-founded "The Big Picture Collective" in February 2022. This collective aims to produce cutting-edge film and TV projects while also providing mentor ship and first-look opportunities for young athletes. The Big Picture's mission is to create a supportive family environment that helps athletes with representation, Name, Image and Likeness (NIL) rights, and opportunities in the entertainment industry throughout their sports careers. Mental health support is also a priority for the collective.
The Big Picture Collective intends to nurture and work with high-character young athletes and their families, utilizing a diverse group of individuals from various industries to develop long-term connections and ventures in the arts. The collective includes mentor ship from iconic sports figures (to be announced), as well as professionals in acting, writing, producing, directing, and music. The goal is to provide the next generation of athletes with opportunities to excel in both their sports ambitions and artistic pursuits, while also preparing them for a legacy that extends beyond their athletic careers.
Clevinger's vision is rooted in loyalty and a belief in giving back to those who have helped him along his journey. He aims to empower talented individuals to control their own futures and prioritize their mental health within a supportive and culturally diverse environment. By tapping into dreams, voices, and cultural beliefs, The Big Picture Collective aims to break down barriers and provide opportunities for young talents to thrive. For Clevinger, it has always been about something bigger than himself, and his focus lies in creating a legacy of support and success for those who follow in his footsteps.
