David Oyelowo sits down for an intimate conversation about his powerful new film “Newborn” (in AMC Theaters April 10th), in which he plays a man rebuilding his life after seven years in solitary confinement. David opens up about the devastating realities of solitary confinement in America, the painstaking research behind his performance, and his partnership with Nate Parker to launch their own streaming platform, Mansa, and distribution company.
He also reflects on the seven-year journey to bring “Selma” to life, working alongside Forest Whitaker, Daniel Day-Lewis, and Tom Cruise, and why the career young actors should aspire to is a slow burn. Plus, David shares what he learned from Ava DuVernay, why he defied his agents to work with her, and the price of true artistic greatness.
🎬 Newborn — In AMC Theaters April 10th
Topics covered:
0:00 Introduction
1:43 What is “Newborn” about
2:08 The reality of solitary confinement in America
3:48 Preparing for the role of Chris Newborn
6:02 Nate Parker collaboration & building Mansa
7:28 Hollywood distribution & the “rolling break even”
8:21 AMC Theaters partnership
9:07 Theater vs. film acting
11:05 The seven-year journey to play Dr. King in “Selma”
16:19 Advice to young actors: the slow burn career
18:32 Working with Ava DuVernay for $250K
19:52 Working opposite Forest Whitaker
21:15 The price of greatness
22:15 Birthday plans & closing