Interview by Carol Wright | Photographer: Bjoern Kommerell
We got to chat with actor Jalon Christian about his role in the film A Journal for Jordan and what he learned through working with Denzel Washington.
Was there a specific television show or movie that initially sparked your interest in acting?
Well of course I watched every superhero movie and thought “that would be so cool to do that!” Growing up, I was always able to try out different things to see what I liked. So I’ve played every sport, taken singing lessons, learned to play the keyboard, was in chess club, and loved a lot of it. But as soon as I started acting, I fell in love with it! Watching TV shows or movies now, I have such an appreciation for the craft and the amount of time actors spend in preparation.
Tell our readers a bit about A Journal for Jordan. What drew you to the project?
Mr. Denzel Washington. To work with him is a dream come true. I loved the story about family in that true family may not be blood but it can be a connection even greater. I appreciated this wonderful man who was so devoted to his troupes and to his family. I loved the character because in so many ways I really understood him. When I read the script I knew I wanted to play him better than anyone else in the history of the world.
How did you go about preparing for the role of Jordan?
For the audition, I put my entire heart into Jordan. When playing any character but especially a real person, you must put 100 percent of yourself emotionally into whatever they are going through. Being biracial, I had an instant connection to some of the struggles Jordan was going through with regard to racial identity. Also, many people do not have a father figure in their life. I wanted to make sure they felt seen and respected. That’s a big loss.
Denzel Washington directed the film. What did you learn through working with him?
It was a blessing to work with Mr. Washington for a two-week rehearsal prior to us shooting. It’s the greatest when you have a director who also is one of the greatest actors of all time. He understands the process an actor needs to go through in order to have the deepest connection to the character. I learned not to force it but find my way through it. You must find the character way before you get to set. So even in the first take you are no longer seeking it you are living it.
He taught me to be serious about the work and always keep a sense of humor.
Overall, do you feel as though you have grown as an actor after working on A Journal for Jordan?
In every, single way. Working with Mr. Washington, Michael B. Jordan, Chante Adams, our supportive producers like Todd Black, the amazing crew allowed me to see what greatness as a team looks like. Being an actor is a collaborative process. It’s not about one person. It’s about telling a wonderful story that will emotionally move and inspire the audience.
What advice do you have for aspiring actors?
I am also very athletic. I am the quarterback on my football team. I also play basketball, soccer, and baseball. My best advice is to train in your craft like an athlete. Acting is an ongoing process you will keep getting better at no matter how many Oscars you win. You have to decide if you want to make it in the A league to work with the best actors and directors, then you have to be diligent in learning your craft. What you do between the games determines the success of the game.