Rumour has it that if you’re from Queens, NY, it’s natural to think tough guys don’t cry, but “that’s all nonsense,” according to Shomari Love. As an actor, being inundated with constant rejection takes a unique strength. That strength has helped Shomari realize the importance of being able to express emotions.
When you’re in front of the camera, you have to connect with whatever trauma or pain your character is going through. In ‘Dirty’, Shomari plays a psychopathic killer who will do anything to protect his crew, even if innocent lives are taken.
Shomari Love Vs. Dirty
It’s always a pleasure to talk to the man behind the character. Shomari expressed that he has had issues controlling his anger. The difference between him and his character is that Dirty’s automatic thought is revenge, an emotional response with no self-control. When faced with a problem, Shomari is more calculated now. “I think with logic now. I think more about the repercussions and how they may affect me and others.”
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See also: Gent’s Talk: Philanthropy & Big Screen Dreams w/ Grant Hall
As Shomari matures, he has learned better ways to deal with his anger and has found ways to communicate that are more effective. He found where the real power comes from when dealing with conflict. “Most of our power is in not doing. The power is in inactivity,” Love explained, “The person who has the patience to not respond to the aggressor has more power.” We agree. You’re more of a man when you have mastered the art of restraint.
When To Disconnect
Shomari has gained self-control and an affinity for physical fitness after being introduced to Shotokan at a young age and eventually finding Krav Maga. Growing up as a “hot head,” his parents put him into martial arts for discipline and structure. He stated that when it comes to martial arts, “it’s not just the physical, it’s the mental too. [Martial arts] keeps me going. [Fitness] keeps me motivated. It all allows me to clear my head.”
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When dealing with anger, Love recommends having an outlet to decompress. The ability to plug out and disconnect from reality can completely change your mood. Breathwork is his staple outlet. He also resorts to playing sports, going to the gym and travelling. Being outside and soaking up the sun is always recommended, and Love feels an overwhelming sense of tranquillity when emersed in nature. “I love the water. To take a nice shower or go for a swim is such a good release.”
Toxic Masculinity
Shomari loves playing toxic roles because the character may have a certain toughness or bravado, but you usually get an opportunity to connect on a human layer. Getting a glimpse of that character underneath their shell allows you to realize that they may be afraid or hurt. As with actual people, Love voices that “there’s some type of emotion that they may not know how to express, or they were told that the way they want to express it isn’t the right way, so they resort to something like violence.” We’re at an age where most of us realize it is time to change. Shomari acknowledges that we’re getting too old for toxic masculinity. The difficulty lies in whether this can be taught to the youth or if it’s a lesson that only life can teach.
“It’s toxic to hold on. It’s toxic to not let those tears out”
Shomari Love on toxic masculinity
Because children are impressionable, Shomari agrees they need to see more men expressing emotions healthily. It’s the only way to progress. Children growing up not knowing there’s another option is heartbreaking.
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Kold x Windy
If you’re a hip-hop fan and prefer tv shows over movies, you will want to tune into the WEtv series “Kold x Windy.” Love plays a henchman in the series, which follows hip-hop and drill star Malika (Sh’Kia) as she works to create a better life for herself and her son on the south side of Chicago. Love has appeared in several television shows, including the Emmy-nominated series The Chi and Black Lightning. He is no stranger to the film world, as he recently brought his talents to a lead role in the Saban Films thriller “Take the Night.” Shomari also wore the hat of a director and executive producer in the short film Pulse, where he also starred.
Acting brings Shomari the most joy, but he enjoys wearing all three hats. “It gives you a different perspective and a greater appreciation for others.” he clarified. A skilled percussionist who learned to play the African Drums as a child, Shomari has also earned a Bachelors of Arts degree from Seton Hall University and is a proud member of the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Inc. We’re excited for the busy year ahead of Shomari Love and the many successes to follow!
Feature image credit Sen M. Floyd
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