Answers with Denzel Whitaker

Answer 1

You star in Lifetime's recently released film "Back to School Mom". "Back to School Mom" is the story of a 40-year-old woman who decides to go back to school to pursue her degree. When she gets there she learns that her son, who she gave up for adoption, is attending the school. You play Noah Riley, the adopted son. What was it about the character of Noah that made you audition for the part?

With "Back to School Mom", I received a straight offer for this role. Honestly, the day I received the offer, I was driving to my musical composer's house for my short "Criminal". My agent calls and instructs me to "read a script and call him back asap." Usually when that happens, it's good news. While my composer was creating an epic score, his musical talents basically served as dramatic backdrop while I was reading the script. I called my agent, told him I liked it and the rest was history.

Answer 2

During the movie, Mary--the back to school mom--asks your character Noah, "If there wasn't a plan, what would your dream be?". Noah--an extremely talented musician--responds "Carnegie Hall". Do you have as big of dreams as Noah for your acting career?

I certainly do have dreams as big as Noah. It's important and necessary to have such goals, otherwise what are you working towards? And my dreams in this business aren't limited to just acting either. I plan on being an entertainment mogul through the success of my company "Blackmouf Entertainment".

Answer 3

What would your dream role be?

I love action movies and stoic dramatic roles. My ideal role would be a swift character like James Bond in a large scale action blockbuster. Either that or something directed by Tarantino, Scorsese, Nicolas Refn, or Christopher Nolan.

Answer 4

Is it true that you are named after Denzel Washington? What was it like to work with Denzel while filming "The Great Debaters" and "Training Day"?

Yes, I was named after Denzel Washington. Even if I tried to deny it he would tell you I am named after him off pronunciation alone. It was an incredible honor to work with an idol of mine and mentor. He's an amazing person to work with and I'm even more grateful for the close proximity I was able to experience with him since he was directing and acting. In many ways, he's responsible for me pursuing my directing career.

Answer 5

Who are some of your biggest influences in the industry?

Denzel Washington, Will Smith, Christian Bale, Steven Spielberg, Quentin Tarantino, Martin Scorsese, Christopher Nolan.

Answer 6

You've bounced around within the acting industry, working on both television shows and movies. How is filming for a television show different than filming for a movie? Which one do you prefer?

The biggest difference is scheduling, how the character evolves, and the duration of an event with the character. I prefer films as I like to fully immerse myself for the duration of the role and then try something new. I'm not opposed to television but at one point, if the character isn't making dynamic growth throughout the seasons, then that character just becomes a part of you and it becomes second nature.

Answer 7

You've also acted in various genres ranging from drama to comedy. Which genre do you feel suits you best as an actor?

I enjoy drama and action. Both genres tend have the stories that I like portraying. It's a little sad to say because comedy was my mainstay growing up. I guess being silly and slapstick is no longer the comedy I enjoy, however I do love situational comedy. Nothing is funnier to me than awkward moments or asshole characters in comedy.

Answer 8

You're part of the social networking site Twitter. Is it important for you to connect and interact with your fans?

I think social interaction with fans is very important and necessary for any brand to succeed. I love hearing when my work has touched someone or influenced their thoughts in a positive way. It's also a great tool to reach people you might not have had the chance to meet in person.

Answer 9

For those of us who missed "Back To School Mom" on February 14th, where can we go watch it?

I'm sure it's still available on Lifetime.

Answer 10

What profession would you pursue if you were not acting?

Directing, Photography, Editing, Mechanic. Pretty much everything I do now in between my acting jobs.