There is a list of films that are considered classics, and there is no doubt that the 2000 film “Love & Basketball” is among the list of greats.
If you’re anything like me, you can probably recite almost every line while watching the movie. That film placed so many actors in the forefront as it helped jump-start their careers.
You all may remember Glenndon Chatman, who starred alongside Kyla Pratt as the young Quincy McCall. Following the success of “Love & Basketball,” he went to work on other projects such as, “The Luck of the Irish,” and more.
I was able to catch up with Glenndon Chatman to see what it was like to be a part of such a classic film, his thoughts on the industry today and what upcoming projects he has in the works.
When asked what was the biggest lesson he learned while working on “Love & Basketball,” he said, “The biggest lesson that I learned from working on that film can’t necessarily be summed up to one thing. So many great things I gained from that experience. From a professional perspective, I learned to always respect the craft and take it seriously or else it won’t take you seriously. Take your time to develop your character and always be the best version of you because you never know who’s watching & someone ALWAYS is.”
Q: What would you say is your fondest memory from the set of “Love & Basketball?”
A: Being fortunate enough to work with such an exceptional group of actors who brought out the best in me. Also, being able to work with Gina(director). I remember as a kid thinking how cool she was and how dope it was that she was a black female telling such a relatable story that all demographics could resonate with.
Q: With you starting off in the industry so young, you were a part of what people consider the “golden era” for television and films. What would say are the pros and cons of the industry now compared to back then?
A: The cons: I came up in an era where casting directors wanted to physically see the actor. So when you got an audition for a film or television show you knew it was a big deal because they can’t bring everyone into the office similar to now). Basically, you knew they really wanted to see you. There was also a sense of relationship building with casting. Nowadays 85-90% of auditions are self-tapes and casting directors cast based off of that. Convenient yes, but less personal and less advantageous for the actor. Your margin for error has to be to nonexistent and you have to on point. (Pro & Con) The pros are that there are so many platforms for you to be seen and for you to create your own project and narratives that you no longer have to necessarily worry about the former.
Q: In 2016, you starred in a film called “No Regrets,” with other heavy hitters such as Loretta Devine, Brian White, Elise Neal, and many others. What was that experience like?
A: That experience was great! Again, another group of great and talented actors that made coming to work every day enjoyable.
Q: Aside from still being involved in the acting scene, what else have you been up to throughout the years?
A: Just College, Fatherhood, & “Real Life”. Working closely with at-risk youth in underserved and underprivileged communities nationwide. Also, with acting being my foundation I was able to transition and venture into other fields of entertainment i.e. music, producing, & writing.
Q: Are there any upcoming projects you may have that you want our Roommates to look forward to?
A: Absolutely! I have a stage play that I co-produced and that I am acting in as well titled “The Other Side of The Story” written by a great up and coming playwright Jon Sherman. It’s a story of brotherhood, love, betrayal & tragedy told from the perspective of men of color, hence the title. It’s us men getting to tell our version of why we do what we do. Opening at the top of the year. Also, be on the lookout for music from myself and The Cold Blooded Soul team. A lot of great things ahead to forward to.
