DAVID BIANCHI

From the bustling streets of Mexico City to the shining lights of Hollywood, David Bianchi's journey in the world of acting and filmmaking is nothing short of inspirational. At the tender age of being a third grader, David was cast as Captain Hook in a school production of Peter Pan, a pivotal moment that not only showcased his natural flair for performance but also highlighted the transformative power of inclusive casting. His teacher’s bold choice to look beyond racial stereotypes ignited a fire in young David, setting him on a path to explore and embrace his artistic talents. His early years were filled with performances, from rapping to family gatherings, which laid the foundation for his later pursuits in film and television.

As the creator and co-writer of the upcoming series "RZR," David takes on the complex character of Grimm, a veteran grappling with his demons in a post-apocalyptic world. Drawing from his own battles and triumphs, including a personal journey towards seven years of sobriety, David imbues Grimm with a raw, authentic vulnerability that speaks to the challenges we all face. His commitment to bringing such layered characters to life not only enhances his storytelling but also connects deeply with audiences, making his work compelling and relatable. As "RZR" prepares to make its mark, David's dual role as an actor and a producer showcases his multifaceted skill set, promising a series that is as intriguing as it is revolutionary in its depiction of human resilience and redemption.

David, can you share a pivotal moment from your childhood that solidified your passion for acting?

When I was in 3rd grade living in Mexico City, I was cast to play Captain Hook in Peter Pan. Even at such a young age, it proved that I could perform in front of an audience. It was also significant because I was cast as a character traditionally portrayed by a white guy! The teacher's decision to colorblind cast me ignited my passion for performance. Without them seeing beyond the color of my skin, I may not have discovered my love for acting. Even earlier, I had a knack for performance, spitting raps during the era of Fat Boys and Run DMC and performing for the family, but it wasn't until high school that I began seriously considering film and television as a viable career path. I was convinced that I would succeed.

In "RZR," you play Grimm. How do you personally relate to this character?

Grimm’s mission is to make the world a better place, yet he grapples with anxiety (particularly as a returning veteran from a nuclear war). Additionally, Grimm struggles with addiction, hooked on benzos and oxys. I resonate with the complexities of such a character, as I am approaching seven years of continuous sobriety myself. I understand the struggle of being driven, yet flawed: trapped by one's own self-destructive tendencies. Like Grimm, I am deeply committed to fulfilling my purpose, despite my imperfections.

The polarity of the hero's journey combined with character flaws is crucial to Grim's relatability, allowing the audience to see elements of themselves in him. I often say that, in some ways, we are all Grimm, navigating our own struggles and striving to overcome them.

What was the most challenging scene to shoot for "RZR" and why?

One of the most challenging scenes for me was when I was held hostage, zip-tied to a wall, and beaten. The difficulty didn't lie in the physicality of the scene but rather in the logistical challenges we faced. Due to scheduling issues, my scene partner, Richard Cabral, wasn't available that day. So, when we filmed all the camera coverage on my side, I had to recreate the exact scene from two days prior, this time performing opposite a background player reading lines from an iPhone! Despite the challenges, the scene cut together seamlessly, and the exhaustion from a long day of filming only added to the intensity.

Another challenging scene involved facing off with an adversary, where I taught myself to speak Japanese phonetically. This scene required a high level of focus due to its stillness and stoicism. Memorizing monologues in a language I don't speak was tricky, especially with limited takes to get it right due to our tight schedule. It took tremendous self-control knowing failure wasn't an option.

As the creator and co-writer of "RZR," how do you balance your roles in front of and behind the camera?

Surrounding yourself with a trusted team is crucial for any actor. When I feel confident in the camera, lighting, electric, and the directors, it allows me to switch off my producer brain and fully focus on my role as an actor. Being completely off-book for the entire script before production was essential for me. Knowing all 96 pages of dialogue verbatim ensured that I could always deliver, even in the face of unpredictable variables on set. This level of preparation freed up my energy to support the logistical aspects of the production if need be at any given notice.

How do you think these technologies will affect the future of storytelling in film and television?

RZR explores themes of AI and blockchain, reflecting the rapidly evolving landscape of technology in the entertainment industry. Artificial intelligence is revolutionizing production workflows, poised to significantly disrupt traditional methods. The pace of AI development suggests it will reshape physical production in profound ways. Meanwhile, blockchain technology is poised to revolutionize information and intellectual property systems within the next five years. Additionally, blockchain has the potential to transform fan engagement, offering new ways to consume and immerse oneself in content through digital asset collection.

In the production of RZR, AI played a significant role, particularly through tools like Mid Journey for creating virtual worlds in Unreal Engine, even AI newscasters. This use of AI, along with extensive art and production design, brought the world of RZR to life. I am a proponent of leveraging artificial intelligence to streamline and simplify workflows in filmmaking and other creative endeavors.

NFTs are revolutionizing the landscape for filmmakers and artists, ushering in an era of digital ownership. This shift allows artists to build sustainable economies around their work, eliminating the notion of the "starving artist." NFTs offer fans more immersive experiences and faster access to exclusive content, fostering communities of like-minded individuals. Additionally, blockchain technology ensures the authenticity and provenance of intellectual property, providing creators with greater control over their work and protecting against manipulation or unauthorized use. For example, if there's an AI music track featuring Drake's voice, it's challenging to confirm its authenticity. However, if Drake releases an album authenticated on a blockchain system and issued as NFTs, we can verify its origin.

Being of Afro-Brazilian descent, how do you think your heritage influences your creative output?

My multicultural background, with American and Brazilian passports and upbringing in Mexico City, shapes my worldview and inspires the art I create. I identify strongly as a South American Latino, embracing progressive thinking influenced by my diverse experiences. As an Afro-Brazilian, I advocate for diversity and inclusion in the entertainment industry, having faced challenges due to being ethnically ambiguous in Hollywood.

The struggles I've encountered have fueled my determination to create opportunities for Afro-Latino, Afro-Brazilian, and Latinx communities. This commitment is reflected in "RZR," which prioritizes diversity with 58 speaking roles, predominantly Latino, and only six Caucasian actors. Being fluent in Spanish, Portuguese, and English enriches my approach to acting and screenwriting. Mastery of multiple languages enhances vocal versatility and facilitates authentic dialogue delivery. Additionally, proficiency in different languages aids in portraying diverse characters and accents, ultimately contributing to a more nuanced and global perspective as an actor.

How has your classical theater training influenced your performance in television and film roles?

In my experience, the best film actors often have classical theater training, which provides a strong foundation for their craft. Great theater actors often excel on both stage and screen. While the techniques used in theater and film differ, awareness of both modalities can enhance a performer's versatility. Understanding the boundaries and dynamics of stage performance can inform bold and creative choices in film acting.

Voice, diction, and physical stage work provide a solid framework for developing compelling characters. Actors without a theater background may find it challenging to make bold decisions or explore improvisation in film roles, stunting their performance. Theater training empowers actors and creative freedom to deliver memorable performances on screen.

Can you explain the concept of 'Spinema' and how it blends poetry with cinema?

"Spinema™" is an art form I've honed over nearly two decades, blending my roles as director, producer, writer, performer, and poet. In this medium, poetry serves as the script, but conveying emotions requires interpretation through physical performance. Not every poet possesses this skill, making it integral to compelling Spinema™ films.

Great actors shine as poets on screen because they're adaptable, as Bruce Lee said, like water, conduits of emotions. In a Spinema™ film, performers transform poetry into performance art, blurring the lines between the two. Whether reciting Shakespearean-like verse or delivering prose, emotions are conveyed through a lens. It takes a unique performer to deliver poetry viscerally while navigating the nuances of the camera.

These films are socially conscious, often raising awareness of underlying conditions like heartbreak or injustice. Poetry serves as society's graffiti, inspired by myriad experiences, making Spinema™ a powerful tool for storytelling and reflection.

How have you seen the entertainment industry evolve since you started your career, particularly with the advent of streaming platforms?

If it weren't for streaming technology, we wouldn't be having this conversation. Streaming technology has ushered in a huge renaissance for actors, with unprecedented opportunities. Streaming platforms provide a vast landscape for actors to explore diverse characters with Hollywood-level production value. A-list actors can now delve into complex roles over multiple hour long episodes, it’s like shooting a ten hour feature film. But the abundance of content has led to content fatigue, making it challenging for new work to capture audience attention amid the constant stream of releases. This is a hurdle Gala Film must overcome as we launch RZR and our new platform in an era dominated by streaming across TV, online, and social media.

How did you prepare for your role as Grimm in "RZR"?

I did a fair amount of physical training, which is common for me as I'm usually in the gym five days a week. Specifically, I focused on adding about 10 lbs of muscle and honing skills in hand-to-hand combat, knife combat, and close-quarters tactical weapons. Working closely with my stunt coordinator, Eric Aude’, we meticulously practiced stunt choreography. I performed all my own stunts in RZR, which was a thrilling experience. As a physically inclined actor, I wanted to get dirty. My theater background shined here.

Which directors or screenwriters have had the most influence on your work and why?

Some of my biggest inspirations in filmmaking come from creators who explore the darker side of the human condition. I'm deeply influenced by the works of Darren Aronofsky, Quentin Tarantino, Taylor Sheridan, Ridley Scott, Alfonso Cuarón, Tony Scott, Harmony Korine, Sam Levinson, Denis Villeneuve, and Alejandro González Iñárritu. These auteurs craft layered and textured canvases that delve into the complexities of life with honesty and grit. I aspire to create work that resonates with the depth and impact of their films, hoping that one day these legends might take notice of my contributions to cinema.

What has been the biggest obstacle you've faced in producing your own films and series?

Every project presents its own set of challenges, and each one is equally demanding in its own way. I don't view obstacles as being bigger or smaller than others because, to me, they're all just part of the journey. When faced with challenges, I find ways to navigate around them, over them, through them, or under them. There's never a doubt in my mind, body, or spirit that the task at hand will be accomplished. Even during the toughest moments, such as working for 32 hours straight or dealing with unexpected setbacks, I remain committed to seeing the project through to completion. Challenges are simply part of the process, and as long as I maintain a mindset of determination and resilience, I know that I can overcome anything that comes my way.

How do you engage with your fans, and how has their feedback influenced your work?

I strive to maintain accessibility across various social media platforms. I enjoy interactions with my audience and aiming to inspire them. Giving back to my community is important to me, leaving behind a legacy. The response from my fans fuels my motivation, pushing me to continue creating and connecting with others.

You've worked with notable names like Danny Trejo and Mena Suvari. What have you learned from working with such experienced actors?

I've had the privilege of working alongside legendary actors like Anthony Hopkins, Ewan McGregor, Jeffrey Wright, Karl Urban, Lou Gosset, and Orlando Bloom, among others. What stands out to me among veteran actors with staying power is they are kind, attentive, focused, and professional. While movies may come and go, what people remember is how you made them feel and how you conducted yourself on set. From these experienced actors, I've learned the importance of enjoying the process, embracing professionalism, and exceeding expectations. In the film industry, professionalism is paramount for long-term success.

With "RZR" set to release soon, what are your hopes for its impact on viewers and the sci-fi genre?

I hope that science fiction fans immerse themselves in a cinematic world unlike any they've seen before. The foundational elements of RZR, steeped in cryptocurrency, metaverse technology, and neural implants, offer a unique backdrop against the gritty urban setting of the Grid Zone. I believe sci-fi enthusiasts will find inspiration in the world-building, story, performances, and intensity of the show.

What advice would you give to young artists who aspire to follow in your footsteps?

Work hard at failing. Create regardless. The only obstacles in your path are mostly created by you. Stay out of your own way. Understand that ‘no’ is the best word you can hear because it forces you to move in a different direction. Nothing is personal. Everybody's perceptions of you have nothing to do with how you identify. Work furiously but do it with tact. Care about your brand. Find your voice and a tribe of people ready to create with you at your level. Have conviction. Make a decision, even if it's the wrong one. But make a decision. And never wait. The clock is always ticking. There is always something to do. And have fun along the way. Don't worry about the end result. Worry about today's results.

How do you navigate the business aspects of film and television production?

I often remind artists that to be successful in entertainment, you have to have an entrepreneurial mindset. That means diving into the world of business: understanding contracts, drafting budgets, building pitch proposals, and working with attorneys and marketing teams. Learning to create a startup around yourself is crucial, regardless of your art form. If you don't enjoy the administrative side of entertainment, reaching high levels of success may be challenging. Look at figures like Bradley Cooper, Matthew McConaughey, Leonardo DiCaprio, Brad Pitt and Martin Scorsese—all incredible creators who are also producers. They understand the business of show business, and as artists, we spend the majority of our time on the business side rather than the show.

How has your approach to acting and filmmaking changed over the years?

Every project is a learning experience that allows for growth and improvement. As I become more involved as a producer, I also become more intentional and aware as an actor. Many actors may not fully appreciate the amount of work that goes into producing a project, but my understanding of the efforts of other departments enhances my performance. I've learned that as an actor, my role is to know my lines, hit my marks, and stay out of the way, allowing everyone else to do their jobs effectively.

Where do you see yourself in the next ten years, both personally and professionally?

In 10 years, I see myself deeply involved in real estate and producing multiple projects annually, diversifying my portfolio globally. However, I say often that I work in the work business and God works in the results business. Predicting the future isn't my forte. I've learned that while I work hard, it's important to stay open to where life takes me. My focus remains on relentless work today to ensure a bright creative future as an artist and entrepreneur.

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