An inspirational true story.
Under the Stadium Lights. Directed by Todd Randall, written by John Collins and Harnid Torabpour. Milo Gibson (Hacksaw Ridge) and Laurence Fishburne (The Matrix) star in this inspirational true story of a small town high school football team who beat all the odds to win their state championship. After a crushing defeat ended their prior season, everyone counted the Abilene Eagles out of title contention. Facing doubts and personal challenges both on and off the field, it will take the guidance of their team chaplain (Gibson) and a surrogate father figure (Fishburne) for them to realize what they can achieve when they stand united as a team. In this uplifting underdog story, the Abilene Eagles will once again soar in an incredible comeback that will be forever remembered in sports history.
I had the privilege of seeing a screener of Under the Stadium Lights, as well as the opportunity to speak with one of the stars, Acorye White, who plays Herschel Sims in the film.
How did you manage to go from being a star football athlete at UAB to a dramatic actor?
Acorye White: My final semester in college I needed some extra credits. Someone suggested I take the acting class and I was like,”no way, I’m an athlete.” But I tried it and as soon as I got up on stage I said to myself, I want to act!
What was it like working with first time director Todd Randall?
Acorye White: It was fun. The process was interesting. Todd was precise with the action, he knew what he wanted because the film is based on a true story, but he encouraged improv to push me to elevate the drama and cathartic experience of the story.
Who are the actors that inspire you most?
Acorye White: I really admire the work ethics of Denzel Washington and Will Smith. Their enthusiasm and energy are admirable and motivating.
What kinds of roles do you aspire to in the future?
Acorye White: I would love to play in a biopic film as the young Mike Tyson. I have boxing skills, and I would really enjoy interpreting such a colorful character. I would also love to work in something like Black Panther:2. I like the idea of doing daring athletic stunts in front of a green screen. That would really be fun!
What’s next for Acorye White?
Acorye White: I have an acting coach so I am working on my drama skills, but I also love writing screenplays and I am hoping to get my newest Action/Thriller produced.
Thank you Acorye for taking the time to speak with me!
I watched the film and I really enjoyed it, being a sports genre film I was surprised it was more of a drama than I had expected. Seeing Laurence Fishburne perform is always a treat and he delivers the goods in spades!
Don’t miss ‘Under the Stadium Lights’ in theaters now and On Demand.
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