Meet Haulston Mann | Actor/Director

We had the good fortune of connecting with Haulston Mann and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Haulston, Let’s talk about principles and values – what matters to you most?
I think the think the thing I try to pursue the most in my life and career is “creating from a place of joy with people I like and care about.” That’s sort of the true north on my artistic compass. If that’s happening, the project will probably turn out pretty good, but even if it doesn’t I can still stand behind it because it was time well spent with people I want to be around.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I’m an actor and director currently in NYC and moving to LA early 2025. I think the project I’m most excited about as an actor is leading Wes Clark’s first feature film, How to Start a Cult in 5-Easy Steps! It’s a dark comedy that really gave me the freedom to flex my creative muscles. I also had my real life best friend, Alan Murphy, as my co-star which was kind of a dream come true. It should be premiering next year and I’m looking forward to watching the final product and seeing how the team pulls off the film’s unique tone.

As a director I’ve completed a short film, The Cottage, as well as a music video for Russell Jamie Johnson. Both could not have been accomplished without the help and support of my producing partner, Brianna Cala, and her company, Lady Garden Productions. But I’m really excited to turn my attention towards the possibility of directing my first feature, Bloody Knuckles, which is loosely based on my brother’s life as he became a professional MMA fighter after growing up in extreme poverty in Arkansas.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I’m a huge fan of bringing people to Clifton’s Republic if it’s their first time in LA. I also love seeing musicians play over at Hotel Cafe. And if you ever get the opportunity to see a theatre production by The Queen’s Fools, DO NOT MISS IT!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My family, Jamie, Chad, and Marilyn Mann, have always encouraged me to pursue my dreams and never once asked me to consider a plan b. Watching my younger brother, Pro MMA fighter Chase “The Mannimal” Mann, continue to pursue his goals also really lights a fire in me. Finally, one of the most influential mentors in my life was the late Bruce R. Coleman of Dallas, TX. He taught me the importance of creating from a place of joy and investing time and energy in my community. There are countless other friends and collaborators I’d love to list here and thank for the support, the encouragement, and challenges. I’ve been incredibly lucky when it comes to the quality of human beings that are in my life and I’m extremely thankful for that!

Website: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm5498943/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/haulstonmann/

Image Credits
Brianna Cala, Russell Jamie Johnson, Sophia Grasso