April 2009 | blackfilm.com | AMERICAN VIOLET

April 2009

AMERICAN VIOLET - An Interview with Xzibit

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AMERICAN VIOLET
An Interview with Xzibit
by Wilson Morales

April 13, 2009

From ‘Derailed’ with Clive Owen, to ‘The X-Files: I Want To Believe’ with David Duchovny to his upcoming film with Nicolas Cage in ‘Bad Lieutenant: Port of Call New Orleans,’ rapper/actor Xzibit has been getting bigger parts in Hollywood films and continues to develop his skills that will some day lead to a starring role at some point.

In his latest film, ‘American Violet,’ he’s featured opposite Alfre Woodard and newcomer Nicole Beharie.

The film tells the astonishing story of Dee Roberts, a 24 year old African-American single mother of four who is wrongfully swept up in a drug raid. Despite the urgings of her mother (Alfre Woodard), and with her freedom and the custody of her children at stake, she chooses to fight the powerful district attorney and the unyielding criminal justice system he represents.

In speaking with Blackfilm.com, Xzibit talks about his role and the injustices the film deals with.

What role do you play in the film?

Xzibit: I play a gentleman named Darrell Hughes and I’m the ex to Dee Roberts, the main character in the film. I’m not the greatest as far as my relationship with Dee and the pressure of our situations just adds to her problems.

This film deals a number of injustices done to a community. Had you ever seen any similar atrocities?

Xzibit: The abuse of power in the black community as far as the police are concerned is not a new subject to talk about, but I witnessed it, I saw what people do in reaction to it in different ways. This story was important to me because someone used the system to fight the system. It was inspirational.

Did you talk to Regina Kelly, the real Dee Roberts, in regards to her situation?

Xzibit: No. I didn’t get to meet any of the real individuals who portrayed.

In playing Darrell, did you do anything to add some realism to the character?

Xzibit: This guy really exists so I didn’t have to fabricate much. I was given some DVDs and footage he done for the news and that’s what I used for research.

What attracted you to the role?

Xzibit: It was an independent movie that had such a strong cast. There are seasoned developed actors that, as I try to improve myself as an actor, wouldn’t normally get the chance to work with. On top of that, the story is so important and timely, I thought it was great.

How was working with Alfre Woodard?

Xzibit: She was awesome. She was funny on set and great to work with.

How was working with Nicole?

Xzibit: Nicole comes from a theatrical background and came in fresh into the movie and knocked it out of the park. She has a bright future. As soon as she gets the right role, she’s out of here.

Are you starting to get better material to work with?

Xzibit: Nah, you have to pick and choose. It’s not about how big the part is but how right the part is. I believe I’m making the choices that are helping me and not hurting me.

What role do you play in ‘Bad Lieutenant?’

Xzibit: I play a heavy hitter from New Orleans? Nicolas Cage is of course the Bad Lietenant. I’m also getting ready to go on tour.

How do you balance between music, movies, and family?

Xzibit: It only takes a few months to do one from movie. To be away for that short of time and to have the rest of it to yourself is a beautiful thing. As I step back into the music world, it’s just of matter of balancing my time. It all works out if you have the right team around you.

AMERICAN VIOLET opens on April 17, 2009

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