“Embracing the Creative Journey: An Interview with Cody Alexander Curtis on Art, Rejection, and the Power of Storytelling”
In this exclusive interview, Darwin Reina sits down with the talented actor and filmmaker, Cody Alexander Curtis, whose passion for storytelling spans two decades. From his extensive background in theater to his recent transition into filmmaking, Cody’s journey is a testament to perseverance, creativity, and the power of emotional expression. A true advocate for the artistic process, Cody shares his experiences, struggles, and insights into how he continues to grow and make an impact in the world of cinema.
How did you first get into the industry, and what inspired you to pursue a career in film?
It’s interesting. I can’t say I have ever been separated from the industry. For most of my life, I have been performing on theater stages. In high school, I had the honor of playing Romeo (Romeo and Juliet), Hamlet (Hamlet), Lennox (Macbeth), Giles Corey (The Crucible) and Bernard (Death of a Salesman). In college, I played Curly in Of Mice and Men. And this past year I had the chance to dig into the meaty role of Johnathan Harker in Brahm Stoker’s Dracula. But that is enough about my theatre life. I only started working on film-related projects in 2018. A friend of mine was taking a screenwriting class with me and he asked if I would produce a short film he was working on. I had never done anything like it, and it hooked me from the first pre-production meeting. Since then I have played every role in front and behind the camera in some capacity. I have directed six projects in total and acted in five of the six. I love it. I love storytelling and I do not plan on stopping anytime soon. I am even producing my first stage play this year from a script I adapted from one of my short films and I am acting in said show.
As an actor/director, what do you enjoy most about the creative process?
For the longest time, I thought I could fully describe how I felt about acting and the creative process as a whole, but there aren’t any words in any dictionary to describe how beautiful it is. The more creatives I talk and surround myself with this seems to be a common theme. Adrien Brody in 2024’s The Brutalist puts it eloquently (granted I am probably paraphrasing). At a certain point, someone asks him what he thinks of architecture or art. Brody ponders for a moment and says “How can you describe beauty in its purest essence? How can you describe that which will make humanity better.” I love that mindset and I love that description. If I were to say my favorite part: It’s the ability to be free and inspire change when so many things in our world want to push art away or rip away artistic integrity for the sake of profit. The creative process is about making yourself, the people next to you, and the world at large a better place.
How do you cope with rejection and setbacks, and how do you celebrate your successes?
I don’t think there is a creative alive who has not struggled with the idea of rejection and self-doubt at some point. What I have learned through much therapy, books like The Artists Way by Julia Cameron, and speaking with those same creatives I mentioned earlier is to not put weight on rejection. Now this may seem confusing at first, but what I mean is that you can choose which perspective you want to give power to. If you choose to be hopeful and build your life as a creative (Which in my opinion is what we should all be doing) the entire creative process will become a part of who you are. The wins, the losses, the sorrow, and the thunderous inner cheers will all become a part of the journey and the stress of being perfect will go away with time. How do I mourn my rejections? The same way I deal with my successes. I spend time with those closest to me and I talk with them about what I have going on. I think a lot more creative people could benefit by not treating their careers and journeys like precious snowflakes that will disappear with a grasp. If you unclutch the preciousness that is creativity you may find your life more beautiful, your creativity more interesting and your overall life more abundant.
What is your method or preparation process when approaching a new role or project?
This is something I have never really shared because I consider it a very intense process. I need to preface this by saying that everyone’s preparation will be different. First, I start with creating an imaginary 24-hour period for this character. An average day. The events of stories are a result of an extraordinary day or circumstance. I wipe that away so I can get to the meat of the character. Then I will write an extensive backstory for this character and learn about who they are. What was their family life like? Who has had the greatest impact on them? When I get to the final stages of character preparation I dive into something I call character therapy. This is a process where I will treat myself as a therapist and have discussions with my character about what is going on, however the events of the play, or film will not have happened. The character will have no idea what is going to come next. It’s an intense and emotionally vulnerable practice. If there is one book I recommend every creative, actor, writer and person read it’s The Body Keeps The Score by Bessel Van Der Kolk. This single-handedly changed my practice as an actor and a person. It is a heavy book, but what it does is teach that everybody in the present day is just a conglomeration of their past experiences and traumas. For example, someone who loves to be adventurous probably got it from camping or taking a lot of trips with their parents and friends. Someone who has a difficult time trusting others has more than likely had experiences in their life that have solidified those mindsets, even if they do not know it themselves. It’s a powerful book and one that I believe is essential for storytelling. If you are doing anything you need to be prepared. Acting, directing, or otherwise.
What motivates you to keep pushing forward in such a challenging industry?
Knowing that my journey is my own. I have not always been positive. There have been several times that I wanted to quit this industry. What has kept me going is the supportive network I have built around me. Being on an independent journey is certainly one way of doing things. Learning, creating, and moving forward keep me going. At this stage of the game I have to admit I don’t believe motivation exists. You just have to keep moving forward. Do what you think is right and don’t let anyone tell you what you are capable of.
Which two actors or directors would you most like to collaborate with, and why?
Actors:
ANYA TAYLOR JOY — Not only do I think she is wise beyond her years, but I swear every time I watch her on screen it feels as though she is teaching me something, plus she gives every role 1000% of her being. That sort of dedication is just something truly special.
KEANU REEVES — What else is there to say? He is not only an incredibly dedicated actor, but more importantly, he is a fantastic human being. He cares so much about other people that you can’t help but be drawn to him. Moreso than acting, I would love to spend a day with him.
I think because I recently saw Nosferatu I would love to work with Robert Eggers. His understanding of how to make an incredibly beautiful and enticing film is something to be admired, but I am also an admirer of great horror and he also has that genre on lock. For this reason, I would love to work with Mike Flanagan. And I don’t know who else will say it, but my dream studio to work with is A24 — What I stand for as an artist and the kind of stories they produce is what I want to be involved with.
If you were not pursuing a career in film, what other profession might you have chosen?
Something in the fitness space. I love health and fitness and I love exercise, good food and experiencing life.
What advice would you give to aspiring actors and directors who may be on the verge of giving up?
Things will get better. This career is not an easy one, but if you know you are made for it you will find a way. I also want to take the time and say to take care of your mental health. Without a healthy mindset, we don’t have anything. We live in a social media climate that pushes work, work, work and more work. There is so much toxic material on social and traditional media these days that it is easy not to take your best interest into account. If you are someone pursuing a creative path and you are feeling left behind it is ok. You are not broken, you are not missing a piece, you are running your own race. The world needs your stories, it needs your gift as an actor, writer, and filmmaker. You know why it’s ok to take a step back and give yourself a break? Because if you know you are meant for this you will be in it for the long haul, for the rest of your life. If I am going to give practical advice here it is:
Take a social media break
Don’t listen to unsupportive people
Be the kind of person for you that you want to be for other filmmakers
Don’t listen to anyone telling you to destroy your life to pursue your dream.
Pursue bigger goals
Love more
Be understanding
Be creative
Make the stories you want to create.
Never stop being you
What words of inspiration or resilience would you like to share with others in the industry or those just starting out?
First of all, welcome to the first chapter of your story. You have made it. Never stop creating, and never stop being joyful. No matter what gets thrown your way it is important to remember to stay who you are. I have seen way too many people change who they are because they reach some level of success. If you want to keep going, be the kind of person you would want to work with on set. Be kind, be curious, be adventurous, take risks, be brave, be bold, and never let anyone and I mean ANYONE decide what you are made for. If you want to be a lead in movies you can be, if you want to write and direct continuously you can be. You can be anything you want. With the tools we have at our disposal, you can create the artistic life you are meant for. You started this journey for a reason. You were meant for this. Now get out there and start creating the beautiful stories your soul is calling you to create.
To learn more about Cody Alexander Curtis and stay updated on his latest projects, be sure to follow him on IMDb and through his social media channels.
Cody Alexander Curtis Instagram
All responses and images featured in this interview were provided directly by the interviewee. The views, opinions, and statements expressed are solely those of the interviewee and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of Rodartin S.L. Any inaccuracies in the responses are unintentional and the responsibility of the interviewee. Images are published with permission and remain the property of their respective owner(s). Unauthorized use, duplication, or redistribution is prohibited.
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