David Jensen [Interview]

Today’s wonderful interview subject is what I would rightfully consider to be a class act of a human being. He has been involved int he world of film and television for over 30 years and as turned out some absolutely incredible roles, which we are so excited to share with you today. It’s David Jensen, Everyone!

I initially became aware of Jensen’s work when he appeared in the absolutely brilliant 2004 film that is often over-looked, but remains to be absolutely brilliant and one of my favorite films of all time entitled A Love Song For Bobby Long. You may remember us speaking about this film a few years ago when we had Grayson Capps gracing our digital pages, who had some incredible music to accompany the film, and who’s father happened to write the story in which the screenplay was eventually based upon. It’s a true love letter to the city of New Orleans, and the beat down souls who continue to occupy its space to this very day. And Jensen was a superb addition to the cast. And absolute damned delight, if you ask me!

And his career has had some very interesting and exciting at bats on many other incredible projects. We are so excited that David was able to take some time out of his schedule to tell us a bit about these projects and his experience as an actor and more over the last 30 years. He is a delightful person, and we are so very excited that he is here with us today. So without further babbling, please enjoy some wonderful words from the amazing David Jensen. You’re going to love this!

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When did you first decide you wanted to join the world of acting? What was it that initially led you into this world?

How I first got interested in acting was when I was in a 9th grade production of Cheaper By the Dozen and one day during rehearsals 3 or 4 of the girls in the cast started making out with the boys in the cast back stage.  The thrill was so compelling and illicit.  But somehow the cast kept it from the faculty and it continued thru the run of the show.  It was an innocent but transformative moment I will never forget.  I don’t remember telling this story often but I am sure what has kept me going from stage productions one after another is the chance that  something thrilling will happen again.

In 2012, we found you portraying a cannibal in This Is the End during the insanely hilarious scene at the end when we are reunited with Danny McBride. I will still go back and watch that moment very often. So how was your experience working on that scene? I don’t know how I could keep myself from laughing like a child. Was it as fun to work on as it was for us to watch?

My time on This Is the End was a long hot summer night next to the Mississippi River in New Orleans.  I don’t remember anyone holding sides or even bothering with a script.  Channing Tatum was in a full Mexican wrestlers mask and on a short leash Danny McBride was tugging on as McBrides’ sex toy/gimp.  I talked a lot to Jay Baruchel who I think is really talented. and Jonah Hill was very accessible.

In 2004 you appeared in one of my favorite films of all time in a very sweet role that I’ve never stopped thinking about. I’m talking about your role as Junior in A Love Song For Bobby Long. How was your experience working on a film like this one? Was there anything about that experience that singles itself out from the plethora of other projects you have worked on?

A Love Song For Bobby Long was another good summer experience in New Orleans before Katrina.  Elliot Davis shot the film, Shainee Gabell wrote and directed.  It’s one of those films that really captures the sense of place.  Many people tell me that it is their favorite film shot in New Orleans.  I play a saxophone jazz musician who fits in this small riverside community.  John and Gabriel Macht were terrific and Scarlett was flawless.

One genre that you have become quite familiar with is the world of horror and thrillers. Notably, you appeared in the classic film, The Mist from Frank Darabont! We are huge fans and supporters of the world of horror around here, so it behooves me to ask you how you enjoy working in the world of horror as opposed to other genres? What is something positive about working on a horror project?

I love horror movies, and Frank Darabont’s The Mist had a great cast, great special effects and every phase of production was a pleasure.  It was a big cast and you could get to know everyone for the 6 weeks I was shooting.  Marcia Gay Harden, Andre Braugher, Toby Jones, Bill Sadler all fun to work with.

After over 30 years in the business, and with all the advancements in technology over the years, I am curious to hear from an experienced actor what you find to be some core values of the world of filmmaking that are still as relevant today, even as me move into the online/digital modern times?

30 YEARS IN THE BUSINESS and it still comes down to honest truthful story telling.  Good people and a story well crafted. (Regardless if you are shooting Kodak 5248 on Panavision or digitally on the Amira, or on an iPhone 10).

What does the future hold for you? Anything you would like to plug to our readers?

Just finished Walk Away Joe, a film starring David Stratharne, that I think will get a lot of good notices and I’m in the new True Detective season starting in 2019.

What was the last thing that made you smile?

That is an easy question because i was just thinking what a good time to be alive.  How important it is for every artist to bring out the truth in whatever art form you are pursuing.  Truth matters and is what ultimately endures the test of time.  I got interested in acting because I thought I was a good liar.  And along the way I learned that truth was far more interesting and life vivifying.  It made my own craft and its’ pursuit more tangible.

And a good guide for structure in every project.  In looking back at the arc of my own life, it gives me satisfaction and a smile.

And check out this lovely collection of stills generously provided by David Jensen himself:

A Love Song For Bobby Long

The Curious Case of Benjamin Button

Alien Tornado

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