Michael B. Jordan on Jamie Foxx, Kobe Bryant & Just Mercy

TL;DR

Michael B. Jordan discusses his role in "Just Mercy" and Bryan Stevenson's impact.

Transcript

[CHEERS] JIMMY KIMMEL: Oh, yeah. MICHAEL B. JORDAN: It's a nice-- [CHEERS, APPLAUSE] JIMMY KIMMEL: Can I tell you something? MICHAEL B. JORDAN: What's up? JIMMY KIMMEL: So all week, I say, and you know, coming up on Thursday, Michael B. Jordan will be here. And every time I've said it, all the women in the audience, each night, have s-- [CHEERS] Th... Read More

Key Insights

• 👨‍⚖️ Michael B. Jordan emphasizes the importance of Bryan Stevenson’s work in fighting for justice and highlighting wrongful convictions in the criminal justice system.
• 🎥 The collaboration between various influential figures during the film's promotion enhanced the film's visibility and impact.
• 🛟 Jordan’s approach to embodying real-life figures reflects a commitment to authenticity and responsibility in storytelling.
• 😀 The film serves as a powerful reminder of the ongoing struggles many face within the incarceration system.
• 😓 Jamie Foxx's role as an accomplished actor and comedian positively influenced the film set, fostering a supportive environment for the cast.
• 🤗 Stevenson’s availability during filming allowed for open communication, empowering Jordan to deliver an authentic performance.
• 🖐️ Jordan’s relationship with the audience and fans plays a significant role in his promotional efforts, connecting him further to the themes in "Just Mercy."

Questions & Answers

Q: What motivated Michael B. Jordan to take on the role of Bryan Stevenson in "Just Mercy"?

Michael B. Jordan felt it was his responsibility to portray Bryan Stevenson after learning about his important work on equal justice and exonerating wrongfully convicted felons. After listening to Stevenson's Ted Talk, Jordan recognized the urgency of sharing this story, which felt both powerful and relevant, even though it came from events that occurred decades ago.

Q: How did Bryan Stevenson influence Michael B. Jordan during the filming of "Just Mercy"?

Bryan Stevenson served as a valuable resource for Michael B. Jordan throughout the filming process. Jordan was able to consult Stevenson to ensure authenticity in his portrayal, asking questions and receiving insights that helped him understand Stevenson's character more deeply. Stevenson also provided support and was excited about Jordan playing him, which made the experience more fulfilling for Jordan.

Q: What was the significance of Kobe Bryant's involvement with the film's screenings?

Kobe Bryant hosted special screenings of "Just Mercy" due to his advocacy for criminal justice reform and equal rights. His involvement highlighted the importance of the film's message and helped raise awareness of the critical issues addressed within it. The collaboration also created a platform for impactful discussions among those attending the screenings.

Q: Did Michael B. Jordan feel nervous about screening "Just Mercy" for Bryan Stevenson?

Yes, Michael B. Jordan expressed that showing the film to Bryan Stevenson was nerve-wracking since he was portraying a living person. Unlike previous roles where he portrayed deceased individuals, he found it reassuring that Stevenson was available to help and guide him through this unique experience.

Q: How did Jamie Foxx contribute to the atmosphere during filming?

Jamie Foxx brought a unique energy to the film’s set by maintaining a lighthearted atmosphere, even amidst serious scenes. He would shift the tone through music or jokes to help the cast connect with their characters during emotionally charged moments, making the filming experience enjoyable for everyone involved.

Q: What does Michael B. Jordan think about the ongoing relevance of the film's themes?

Jordan believes the themes explored in "Just Mercy" are extremely relevant today, as issues of injustice and wrongful convictions persist in the legal system. His intention with the film is to inspire viewers to understand these complexities and advocate for change, showcasing how these narratives could have happened in recent years.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• Michael B. Jordan shares his excitement about starring in and producing "Just Mercy," a film based on Bryan Stevenson's efforts to exonerate wrongfully convicted individuals from death row.

• He highlights Bryan Stevenson’s work with the Equal Justice Initiative and reflects on the importance of justice in the criminal justice system, emphasizing the ongoing relevance of these issues.

• Jordan describes interactions with notable figures like Kobe Bryant and Jamie Foxx during the film's promotion and expresses pride in the film’s message and its impact on audiences.