A Conversation with Actor Michael Ealy of Seven Pounds - Page 2

What professional lessons did you learn under the direction of Gabriele?

Gabriele doesn't like to spell stuff out. I think if anybody walks away from this movie, the one thing they're thinking is, "I don't know if I got it all. I don't know if I understand it all but I know I like it." That's what people were telling me after they saw it. I think that's good because he doesn't spell it out. It's like he almost inspires dialogue with his direction. He inspires conversation. When you leave that movie, you want to talk about it. What did he mean when he did this? That's good; I think that's healthy. 

What did you take from the film in terms of your own acting? Did it influence your style or the way you approach other films?

No. I think with every film the key is it doesn't matter what you're doing; just bring your A-game. That's it. Bring your A-game every time and you don't really have to worry about who you're working with. I can't get caught up in the politics on set and stuff like that. I just bring my A-game and just try to keep it about the work. I think if you keep it about the work, it doesn't matter what set you're on. It's going to be all right. 

What intrigued you the most about the film?

The script. When I met the writer Grant Nieporte on the set, I was like, "Come with me. What happened in your life that inspired you to write this? Did this have anything to do with you? How did you come up with this story?" I'm fascinated how writers write. He explained to me how it all came together. I was just like in awe of what he did. In all honesty, the script is one of the best scripts that not just I but a lot of people have read in years. It was great. It was a really, really good script. 

What elements of the plot did you like the most?

There's nobility in the actions of the lead character. Will Smith's character is a very noble character despite being somewhat depressed and what have you. He demonstrates the most unselfish nature and commits himself to a very noble and unselfish act – almost God-like – in the end of the film. But the writing, the love story between Rosario's and Will's characters is by far one of the best love stories I've ever seen.

Article Author: Clayton Perry

Clayton Perry's mission parallels that of John Hope Franklin, Marcus Garvey and Carter G. Woodson. As the founder of the NUBIANO Project, Perry facilitates the design of projects that give voice to the Black diaspora, empower the Black community, …

Visit Clayton Perry's author page — Clayton Perry's Blog