Erik Jensen is a multipyphenate who, along with his wife and creative partner Jessica Blank have been called “the foremost practitioners of documentary theater in the U.S.” Their genre-defining plays “The Exonerated,” “Aftermath,” “Coal Country,” and “The Line” were all critically acclaimed. As an actor, Jensen’s credits include “The Walking Dead,” “Mindhunter,” “Mr. Robot,” “The Americans,” not to mention his praised portrayal of legendary NY Yankee Thurman Munson in “The Bronx is Burning.” On this episode he details his approach toward playing that beloved figure, and finding out that “almost the entire body of that character was an emotional word-gesture.” He talks about learning how much psychology is in people’s words, his process of having multiple “wants” for a character so he can easily adapt to what he’s given, he explains why it’s a disservice to write or act for the audience, why he doesn’t believe in monologues, how conducting interviews taught him how to listen and become a better actor, plus much more.

Back To One is the in-depth, no-nonsense, actors-on-acting podcast from Filmmaker Magazine. In each episode, host Peter Rinaldi invites one working actor to do a deep dive into their unique process, psychology, and approach to the craft.

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Steve Zahn gained early attention for his breakout roles in the 1990s, including “Reality Bites” and “That Thing You Do!” He became a frequent scene-stealer in films like “Out of Sight,” “Happy, Texas,” and “Saving Silverman,” showcasing his offbeat humor and charm. In HBO’s “Treme,” he played a passionate music teacher navigating post-Katrina New Orleans. More recently, he appeared in the first season of “The White Lotus,” earning critical acclaim for his role as a troubled father on vacation. His latest is personal on multiple levels—the indie film “She Dances,” which he co-wrote with his producing partner Rick Gomez, who also directs. On this episode, he talks about co-staring in that film with his daughter Audrey, and being continually blown away by her work. He takes us back to his early stage work, makes a case for the importance of rehearsal, gives us the two attributes that make a great director, explains why he loves the communal aspect of filmmaking, and much more.

Back To One is the in-depth, no-nonsense, actors-on-acting podcast from Filmmaker Magazine. In each episode, host Peter Rinaldi invites one working actor to do a deep dive into their unique process, psychology, and approach to the craft.

Follow Back To One on Instagram