djimon hounsou - a fighting chance
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photo by steed media service
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Actor, Never Back Down
Djimon Hounsou knows what it means to persevere through trying times. After moving to Paris as a teenage immigrant from the West African country of Benin, Hounsou struggled to pay his rent and eventually became homeless. Unwilling to give up his dream of stardom, he continued to search for ways to make it in the entertainment industry. Hounsou’s luck changed when he landed several modeling jobs and later moved to Hollywood. He has since starred in such critically acclaimed films as Amistad, Gladiator, In America and Blood Diamond. In his latest film, Never Back Down, Hounsou plays martial arts expert Roquoa, and characteristically shows others the importance of sacrifice and determination. –amir shaw
How were you introduced to the film, Never Back Down?
The director [Jeff Wadlow] found me in New York and pitched the movie to me. He was very excited about what he was making and the full idea of the story. I’m also a fan of mixed martial arts. I’ve always loved the sport.
Some of the fighting scenes are very intense, what was an average day like on the set?
In the morning, we would take a shot of protein, have a nice meal and go to the gym and stretch. Preparations were tough and making the film was equally challenging. Whenever you participate in a contact sport, it can take its toll.
How important was it for you to show the rewards of determination in this film?
It was very important for me. The essence of the story is very intriguing. I had to understand what my character was going through and what he was running from.
It’s about the discipline and the training that you have to go through to be successful. You have to face your issues and deal with them in order to advance in life.
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