Last week I had the pleasure of watching the movie Blackbird and interviewing Julian Walker.
This movie tells the story of seventeen-year-old Randy (Julian Walker), a devout Christian who is hiding a secret inner struggle – the denial of being gay. Since his father (Isaiah Washington) left, Randy takes care of his emotionally disturbed mother (Mo’Nique) and is the kind of friend all of his classmates can depend on.
It is not until he opens himself up to love that he discovers that becoming a man means accepting who you really are. #WeAreBlackbird #BlackbirdDVD
Julian was a pleasure to speak with. He is full of life and aspirations. It’s amazing that this was his first major role because he did such an amazing job.
Did you grow up singing? Singing was a big dream and aspiration of mine. Initially I wanted to be a singer before I became an actor. And with this movie, I was able to do both which was great.
Is singing still something you want to do? Of course. I am looking for voice lessons, and I want to learn how to play the guitar so I can help tune my own voice. So I am definitely working on that.
What is your one big dream? My One Big Dream, I hope that I am able to continue to do movies or events that have a good message behind it. I would love to one day, do hosting like eNews, have a blog, become a writer and/or an author. I hope and dream I am able to accomplish everything I want to do.
How was the whole audition experience that afforded you a role in a feature film? It was crazy. I found out about the audition my first semester there (at college). Everything started moving really fast once I got the part.
Were you intimated or nervous working with Isaiah Washington & Academy Award Winner Monique? I really was. When I found out that I would be working with them and the rest of the amazing cast, that they would look at me like, “Who is this new guy? Who does he think he is?” But it was just the opposite. Everyone took time to speak with me one on one, teach me things and help me. It was a great first experience.
What was your best and worst experience filming Blackbird? My best experience was after filming Blackbird. I went to Boston for a Youth Lesbian, Gay and Transgender conference and having so many people come up to me and share their story, that was so similar to the character I played was amazing. So many people are suffering with their secrets and to be in position to help them see someone in a similar perspective was amazing.
My worst experience was doubting myself. Those moments when you go down a road you’ve never been before. You have doubts about your ability? I brought those fears along myself. I actually waited until the last minute to submit my audition tape because of fear, but I am so happy that I did.
Working with all the talented actors, what are some pearls of wisdom they shared? Have fun! I get so nervous before any major publicity event. The excitement you feel when you do something you love! They said, keep that! If you ever loose that, then maybe you shouldn’t be doing this. Remain humble, positive and know this is what you want to do and be happy!
What was it like being on The View? I was sweating bricks backstage, I was so nervous. What made it amazing was Monique and Isaiah and the bond and friendship we had. We started playing music, laughing a lot and taking pictures that allowed me to calm down. It was amazing. Everyone was so positive and supportive.
Did you feel uncomfortable filming the homosexual love scene? I was uncomfortable. I had a nervous feeling, but Patrick (the director) made it so natural and comfortable for me. During the love scene, he only one in the room were the camera woman and Patrick. He was so caring and put our feelings first in many aspects.
Based on the same title novel by Larry Duplechan, the film, which released in theaters in April, is directed by Patrik-Ian Polk (Noah’s Arc, The Skinny). The film stars Academy Award® winning actress and comedian Mo’Nique (Precious), Isaiah Washington (Grey’s Anatomy, Blue Caprice, The 100), Terrell Tilford (Single Ladies, Guiding Light), D. Woods (MTV’s Danity Kane), Gary L. Gray (The Cosby Show, Bring It On: All Or Nothing), Torrey Laamar, Kevin Allesee, Nikki Jane and introduces breakthrough actorJulian Walker.
BLACKBIRD, the provocative film acquired by RLJ Entertainment will be available on VOD and Digital on July 28, 2015 and Blu-ray and DVD on August 4, 2015.
