Filmmaker Rainier Rubin Joins the Storytellers of Camp Lucky
It may be nearing the end of summer, but Camp Lucky’s creativity is a year-round experience. Joining the spirited production and post studio is director Rainier Rubin, a filmmaker whose film direction and storytelling is imbued with cinematic quality, inspiring narratives, and pop culture sensibility. His experience encompasses a diverse range of productions including campaigns for global brands including Nike, Reebok, Jordan, and the NFL, among others.
“Rainier’s ability to harness his experience as a documentarian and bring that same level of human connection and genuineness to his narrative work, shows a cinematic wisdom that is well beyond his years,” notes Camp Lucky EP Brandon Tapp. “His genuine dedication to delivering engaging stories is driven by his natural ability to connect with people. It’s a warmth that shines through in his filmmaking, and we are thrilled to have him join our Camp.”
“Arriving at Camp Lucky feels like a homecoming - and we clicked as soon as I stepped through the studio doors,” says Rainier. “Not only does Camp Lucky have an impressive track record, but I’ve also been thrilled by their vision for the future and embrace of new tech. Beyond that, Camp Lucky is home to remarkable talent in production and post, with strengths in advertising and longform. I couldn’t be more excited to grow under the leadership of Tammie Kleinmann and EP Brandon Tapp.”
Born into a large family, Rainier’s early interest in film was often thwarted by a lack of couch space during family movie nights. Nevertheless, as the new kid in high school he found community in storytelling, filming what would become a beloved series of student portrait mini documentaries. Rainier then enjoyed a four-year collaboration with the Duke basketball team where – as the unofficial 15th man – he explored life on the court from every angle, always humbled to be around Coach K and the deep team atmosphere.
Moving to Los Angeles, Rainier began directing music videos which provided a space for honing his bold visual style. He then worked at Mars Reel, the youth sports-focused media company backed by Warner Media, LeBron James, Dwyane Wade, Drake, and others. There, Rainier helped grow the production arm, contributing to projects with ESPN, Champs Sports, Chipotle, Goat Group, and many more – including the first documentary series with Bronny James. His work then expanded into branded content and advertising under his own banner, including many direct-to-brand projects. The team experience with Duke, and his subsequent professional opportunities, inform the environment Rainier creates on set - open, fun, and deeply collaborative.
“My background started with documentary,” he elaborates, “crossing the threshold into spots and branded content - always with the goal of connecting audiences to memorable storytelling experiences with a well-defined visual style. My numerous direct-to-brand projects have given me a valuable skill set for navigating client interests and creative solves. That, and developing and appreciating the sense of community that comes with the filmmaking experience.”
