William Atticus Parker, a young and talented filmmaker, has made a significant impact in the industry at the tender age of nineteen. As the writer, director, and producer of two feature films, Forty Winks (2022) and Atrabilious (2023),Parker has already received widespread critical acclaim for his work.
Forty Winks, his debut feature film, premiered in 2022 and garnered significant attention for its unique blend of darkly comedic and psychological thriller elements, woven together with the subtle yet effective use of magical realism and horror. The film's cinematography was notable for its bold use of black and white, creating a stark and haunting visual landscape that perfectly complemented the film's themes.
Parker's follow-up feature film, Atrabilious, was announced in October 2022 through a Deadline exclusive. Shot in a striking neon color palette, the film promises to be a visually stunning and thought-provoking exploration of the human psyche. Parker's versatility as a filmmaker is evident in his ability to seamlessly switch between roles, having not only written and directed Atrabilious but also serving as the cinematographer and editor.
In addition to his work on Atrabilious, Parker also took on a range of responsibilities for Forty Winks, including production design, color grading, and casting. This level of creative control and involvement is a testament to Parker's dedication to his craft and his ability to bring his unique vision to life on the big screen.
Parker's inspirations are diverse and eclectic, drawing from a range of influential filmmakers and artists. Jordan Peele's thought-provoking horror films, Ari Aster's unsettling and atmospheric thrillers, Donald Glover's innovative and genre-bending storytelling, Bill Hader's clever and witty humor, Spike Lee's powerful and socially conscious filmmaking, Wes Anderson's whimsical and visually stunning visuals, and the Coen brothers' intricate and complex storytelling all play a role in shaping Parker's distinctive style and approach to filmmaking.
