Denzel Washington on directing: ‘I’m still learning’

“I prefer not being in the films,” he said. “Early on, it had to do with me being able to raise the money to get the films made. Then ‘Fences,’ obviously we had great success onstage, so that translated to film. But I enjoy being a more behind-the-scenes kind of guy.”

Aside from his recent collaboration with Coen, whom he calls “one of the greatest directors,” Washington says he sought insight from some other directors he admires.

“I spent a great day with Paul Thomas Anderson a month or so ago, to listen to how he works,” he said. “And Steve McQueen, I’ve been talking with a little bit. I’m learning how to do it, so I’m interested in learning from the best. So, I’ve been talking to the best.”

Michael B. Jordan says he, too, is interested in learning from the best — which is why it was so impactful for him to be directed by Washington. The actor gives a charismatic performance as Canedy’s fiance, 1st Sgt. Charles Monroe King, who was killed in Iraq in 2006 at age 48. (Canedy is portrayed by Chanté Adams.)

“To be able to work so closely with him was really important,” Jordan said in an interview. “It was a master class, honestly.”

“As an actor, you know, growing up, watching all his movies, watching his performances and being curious about his process — like, ‘Man, I wonder how the greatest of all time rehearses’ or how he breaks down his character,’” Jordan mused. “His perspective of character is so layered. You really realize, ‘Oh, THIS is why you’re Denzel, got it! I’ve been doing great, but then this is the next level.’”