Meet Ra’Shawn Durell | Screenwriter & Actor

We had the good fortune of connecting with Ra’Shawn Durell and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Ra’Shawn, do you have a favorite quote or affirmation?
“I want to be an honest man and good writer” -James Baldwin

There are so many factors in this industry that are completely out of our control. And we can drive ourselves mad trying to be everything to everyone. These are two goals that I fully believe I can strive to always reach. The rest of it will happen exactly when it’s supposed to happen.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
The work is easy. Getting the chance to act, to write, to produce. Those are the moments where it all feels right. Maintaining a living is the hard part. The determination to keep reaching for those moments while paying the bills and clocking in. LA traffic? Oooh baby. I can’t say my persistence is stronger than any one person, or that my talent sets me aside from so many other people working for their success. But no one else has your point of view; that’s what makes me unique, what everyone brings to their audition, or blank page. Perspective & Identity. I want the world to see my point of view.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Right off the bat; we’d go to the Arclight (in my mind it’s not closed, don’t crush my dreams). We have to see at least one movie, that’s non-negotiable. After that, a greatest hits of all the places I’ve been to over the years; The Blind Barber, Moonlight Rollerway, see an intimate show at The Hudson, make a day trip down to the Gaslamp District in SD. And then Disneyland on the last day.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
There is no one individual that is stronger, more loving & supportive than black women. And I’ve been blessed my entire life to be surrounded by the most incredible examples of success. My mother Elizabeth, sister LaToya, my aunt Karen, grandmother Margaret & who I’ve been lucky to call best friends; Carmella, Corlis & Takia. It’s not just about supporting me and my goals but displaying a level of perseverance and inspiration in reaching their own; setting an example in a world that wasn’t catered to their success but still achieving their dreams all the same. There’s absolutely no way I would be where I am today without each one of them.

Website: https://linktr.ee/CinephileAttack

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesimbatattoo/?hl=en

Other: https://vimeo.com/rashawndurell