‘Directing came as a byproduct’ of acting for David Oyelowo
While starring in films like Selma and Lee Daniels’ The Butler, actor David Oyelowo discovered a new passion: directing. Oyelowo was inspired to step behindthe-camera after learning different nuances of the craft from respected directors like Ava Duvernay and Will Gluck.
The actor’s directorial debut, The Water Man, arrives in theaters Friday. Oyelowo said he learned about having a grasp on the movie’s theme from Duvernay. He credits Gluck with teaching him the importance of a director capturing all of the elements in a film: wardrobe, photography, editing — as well as each actor’s performance. “I’ve sort of had my own film school through working with several great directors,” said Oyelowo, who stars in the film with Rosario Dawson. “(Directing) came as a byproduct of my acting career. I wanted to direct because I’ve been around some of the best people in the world.”
Oyelowo said he wants to direct more projects, if he can juggle that with his busy acting career. “I think there are just some incredible stories that are not sequels or remakes,” Oyelowo said, adding, “In some ways, they’ve slept on Africa as a producer of great stories and great content. I really want to be a part of seeing those kind of stories in a global presence.”