David Roy Banks is an American musician, writer and actor well known for his role in “Cut!” that he also co-wrote at that time. He started his entertainment industry career in 2004, debuting in the film “Doing Hard Time”. Moreover, David has appeared in over 200 commercials broadcasted worldwide. He recently starred in an action film “Preacher Six” directed by Grady Earls and in the fourth season of HBO’s comedy-drama “Insecure”. We had a chance to interview David on his projects and future plans.
Hello, David! What have you been up to lately?
Besides playing my drums really loud and annoying my neighbors? I have also become a professional napper [LAUGHS] I used to have a problem diving into my bed in the middle of the day but now I have absolutely no shame I tend to have this intense drive for staying busy and going 100 mph on everything! So a nice nap in between just feels right.
It is widely known that not so many people believed in you getting famous in the entertainment industry, why do you think they did not believe in you at first?
Based on the fact that I would never stick with anything. My ADHD was absolutely out of control.One day I would be on a mission to tour with my band and the next I would think “gee, it would be fun to be a cop” [LAUGHS] I was all over the place. Perhaps it could have something to do with my award in high school for Least Likely to Succeed…… I’m kidding
What motivated you to keep trying for roles?
There is something extremely powerful about someone telling you NO, or YOU CAN’T DO IT.I was on a mission to prove otherwise. It’s the perfect fuel for success! As long as you have at least one person in your corner fighting along with you or encouraging you every step of the way. Mine has always been my mom. That’s all I needed.
You have been dedicated to your acting projects since your first role in “Doing Hard Time”, what was the most difficult thing you did to portray a character and do your best on camera?
Someone once told me that most commercial actors are never able to crossover into the film/TV world successfully. It’s two completely different worlds. Which I sort of agreed with, but again I was on another mission to prove otherwise. The character description for one of my latest TV series was “Intimidating Bulked up Meathead Cop” At the time there was nothing intimidating about me and my skinny self weighing in at 180 pounds. [LAUGHS] I decided to put on 30 pounds and give it a go! Not that there was anything extremely difficult about that other than waking up 2 times each night to inhale tuna, rice/beans and protein shakes. It was a fun little challenge.
In the past, you have mentioned that you would not want to be in some reality show in five years. Why is that?
Years ago I heard reality television is now 44% of TV, and it’s just going to get worse. I was seeing a handful of my friends struggle to work on normal shows. With the exception of a few people there is a small shelf life for “Reality Stars” I’m not going to lie, it was fun to watch Ozzy Osbourne at home cooking in his robe, but that only goes so far. It just became so saturated, and it seemed like everyone had a secret sex tape that “accidentally” made it to the internet.
What would be your dream projects?
Anything I can look back at 10 years from now and still be proud of. Being able to create something with others that are on the same page. There is nothing better than walking away from a shoot where you took chances and trusted yourself enough to try new things and just LET IT ALL OUT! I can usually ride that high for days.
What can you tell us about your recent project?
I just wrapped a fun series called The Afterparty directed by Christopher Miller coming soon to Apple TV.Staring Dave Franco and Sam Richardson. A retelling of the same night told through a different character’s perspective, each with its own unique visual format and film genre to match the teller’s personality.
Do you plan to write more scenarios or even direct films in the nearest future?
Absolutely! I think it’s important to keep creating and stay as busy as possible with things that might be out of your normal comfort zone. Writing is always an amazing way to do that. So many people have been keeping busy and taking advantage of this down time we are all going through at the moment. Whether it’s starting a podcast, a YouTube series, or pitching a show. There are so many ways to keep busy. I have always been a firm believer in work generating more work. When you just sit at home and wait for the phone to ring in magically never does.
What advice would you give to people who want to be successful one day?
Hit the pavement every day! There is that whole 10,000 hours thing we have all heard about. That is probably putting it lightly. Do at least one thing each day to help get you there. If you don’t know how to do it Google it [LAUGHS] It’s so much easier these days. Write down your goals and stare at them daily. Checking them off has always been a rush for me.
What can you tell us about life behind the scenes in your recent film “Preacher Six”
It was one of those bitter sweet moments. Being able to work with Carmen Argenziano was an absolute gift. When I say he is truly a man with an amazing heart, it’s an understatement. I was in awe the entire shoot. When I heard of his passing on twitter it literally blew me away. He gave me some advice that I will never forget.
Do you enjoy watching yourself on the big screen?
Absolutely not! Unless I really suck, then I do [LAUGHS]
What is next for you?
I think it’s nap time. Can I get back to you on that?
