IN CONVERSATION WITH DARREN MANN

interview by JANA LETONJA

Darren Mann’s career has flourished alongside some of the industry’s most celebrated titans. He's worked closely with Taylor Sheridan, starring on his Paramount's hit series ‘1923’, which aired its second and final season earlier this year. In addition to acting, Darren has ventured into filmmaking as a writer and producer. His short film ‘Windfall’ achieved international recognition with a world premiere at the San Francisco California Independent Film Festival (CAFF). 

You’ve worked with some of the industry’s most respected names—Taylor Sheridan, John Wells, Harrison Ford, Helen Mirren. What have you taken away from those experiences, both professionally and personally?

I feel like I’m living my dream, and I’m incredibly grateful for it. It’s a special thing to grow up idolizing these people, then find yourself working alongside them. Getting a peek behind the curtain at how they create their magic, each with their own unique approach, is a real gift. That’s the beauty of this business, there’s no one right way. I’ve definitely taken mental notes while obsessively observing them. You’d be foolish not to, they all have their own version of a winning recipe.

What was it like stepping into the world of ‘1923’, especially with such powerhouse co-stars? How did you prepare for that role?

I was beyond excited. I had fought hard to get onto ‘1883’, even started riding heavily on my off days from ‘Animal Kingdom’ to improve my shot. That one didn’t land, but ‘1923’ did, and I was ready. I prepared my ass off. That way, when I get to set, I can just play. I can’t control most things once I’m there, so I focus hard on the things I can control. Take the pressure off where you can. Hockey taught me that. I remember riding the pine in junior, finally got a shift in the second period, messed up, and sat the rest of the game. Afterward, the coach said “You better always be ready. Cold, nervous, whatever, that’s it. Take it or leave it.” I’ve never forgotten that.

How does working on a series like ‘Animal Kingdom’, with John Wells at the helm, shape an actor’s understanding of long-form storytelling?

John Wells is a legend. Working on his show was a true pleasure, and being directed by him in the finale was a real highlight. He’s a class act and a great leader. I really admire his style of storytelling and directing, and I hope I get to be on another one of his sets soon. And I’ve got to say, I’m a big fan of the French hours we ran on ‘Animal Kingdom’. I don’t know if that’s standard on all his sets, but I loved it.

Many of your roles are emotionally and physically demanding. How do you mentally prepare for such intense characters?

They sure are. Keeps the intensity up, which I like. I approach my roles the way a fighter prepares for a fight. It might sound odd, but it works for me. Sometimes I go back to Alabama or train at home, but either way, I up my training to 2–3 MMA sessions a day and grind through the script in between. That way, when those long Friday shoots hit and your best scene of the film is happening at 3 am, I’m ready. Not just physically, but mentally. That kind of camp breaks me down, and that’s exactly what I need.

You’ve also stepped behind the camera as a writer and producer for ‘Windfall’. What inspired that project, and what was the biggest challenge in creating it?

That was a long time ago now. I was young and hungry to learn more about the other side of the camera. I wanted to stay busy and deepen my craft. The hardest part? Deciding to cater the damn film ourselves, on top of writing, producing, directing, and acting. Ricky and I, along with everyone involved, threw ourselves into it. It was a great time.

As someone who’s both acting and producing now, how do you decide which stories are worth telling? What’s the long-term vision for your work with EVK Entertainment, and are there any specific genres or themes you’re looking to explore?

I’ve got about half a dozen scripts in development, all in different stages. I follow my heart when it comes to choosing projects, stories I’d want to watch. I’m drawn to things that are inspiring, positive, and motivating. My childhood wasn’t always the easiest, and I have no interest in telling stories that are negative, full of empty violence, or leave people feeling like crap. Forget it. I want to help you get up in the morning, laugh a little, or maybe reconnect with someone you love. That’s the kind of impact I’m chasing, regardless of genre. But I’ve definitely got a theme going.

You’ve won multiple Leo Awards, including for ‘Giant Little Ones’ and ‘Fortunate Son’. What do those recognitions mean to you, and how do they influence your future choices?

They meant a lot to me. I started in my hometown of Vancouver, so being recognized there, in front of people I’ve looked up to for years, really hit home. I worked my way up the ladder from one-liners like “Wow, trippy,” to guest spots, recurring roles, series regulars, then film leads. I wouldn’t trade that trajectory for anything. That live, boots-on-the-ground schooling is priceless, like an NHL player getting seasoned in the AHL first. I’m thankful for the Vancouver film community. They really helped raise me. And now, I’ve kind of held off submitting to awards, it’s someone else’s turn. I’ll be cheering them on.

What role has been your most transformative to date—either in terms of career growth or personal evolution?

That’s a tough one. Every role has shaped me in some way. But if I had to pick one, I’d say ‘Embattled’. That’s where I met my wife, Jesi. I can’t imagine doing this without her now.

With your cross-border experience between Canada and the US, how do you see the differences in storytelling and opportunity across those markets?

That’s a great question. Honestly, I think I struggle to pinpoint big differences because there are amazing storytellers in both Canada and the US. I feel lucky to work in both markets. One key difference is the support for the arts in Canada, things like grants and funding that aren’t always available stateside. But both countries are full of talent and passion.

What is coming up next for you?

I’m on the hunt right now. A few irons in the fire. We’ll see what strikes first. Life’s good. The next thing will come when it comes. I’m enjoying the ride. But hey, if you’ve got a spare million lying around, hit me up, we can make my boxing movie next.

TEAM CREDITS:

talent DARREN MANN
photographer RETO STRECHI
editor TIMI LETONJA
interview JANA LETONJA