American Funeral

Academy Award–nominated director and producer Lee Daniels approached RiTE about creating a music video for the season finale of Star. His vision was thematic: how to visualize the tension and fear surrounding the rise of police-related shootings in Black communities.

Knowing the subject was deeply sensitive, we engaged both the Atlanta community and local police to better understand the perspectives on both sides. What emerged was a cycle of fear — a tragic feedback loop where mistrust and split-second decisions escalate into violence. Working with our creative team, we developed a visceral visual language built around interconnected characters spanning multiple years.

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In collaboration with renowned choreographer Sean Bankhead, we designed a delicate blend of stunt work and precision filmmaking. Using our BOLT motion-control system and Phantom high-speed camera, we slowed down those critical seconds where fear and violence collide. With films like this, our goal is simple: to foster understanding through empathy.