Diving into Dystopia: David Bianchi on Leading ‘RZR’ and Shaping Futures on Screen.
In the fast-evolving world of science fiction, David Bianchi stands out not just as an actor but as a driving force behind the scenes. Best known for his compelling role in “Queen of the South,” Bianchi is now captivating audiences as Grimm in the highly anticipated sci-fi thriller series “RZR.” Premiering on Gala Films, a new freemium platform poised to rival giants like Netflix and Apple+, “RZR” plunges viewers into a dystopian future where neural implants and artificial intelligence intersect with the dark alleys of black-market crime. With a stellar cast including Richard Cabral, Danny Trejo, Emilio Rivers, Christopher Marquette, and Mena Suvari, the series promises a gritty exploration of technology’s edge. Following its buzzworthy trailer debut at San Diego Comic-Con, “RZR” began its journey with an explosive two-episode launch. Today, David joins us to discuss his multifaceted role in “RZR,” the series’ intricate world-building, and his perspectives on the evolving landscape of digital storytelling.
Follow David @davidbianchi_official
Describe yourself in three words.
Diligent. Determined. Relentless.
How did you get started in acting?
When I was in 3rd grade, living in Mexico City, I was cast to play Captain Hook in Peter Pan. At such a young age, it proved that I could perform in front of an audience. It was significant because I was cast as a character that has traditionally been portrayed by a white guy! The teacher’s decision to colorblind cast me ignited my passion for performance. Without them seeing beyond the color of my skin, I may not have discovered my love for acting. Even earlier, I had a knack for performance, spitting raps during the era of Fat Boys and Run DMC and performing for the family. It wasn’t until high school that I began to seriously consider film and television as a viable career path. I was convinced that I would succeed.
What is the best and worst part of being an actor?
One of the great parts of being an actor is that you get to build your own sense of creativity, which is defined by your personal experiences. There are no two actors that can perfectly match one another because their life experiences will always define how they interpret text. It’s one of the most interesting and dynamic forms of art, using the physical form to create a moment. One of the worst parts of being an actor is the inconsistency, the uncertainty, the rejection, the lack of appreciation, and the majority of people who never become self-sustaining. Hollywood is very much like a casino; the house always wins, and it’s not designed for outsiders to win and become a part of the working machine. Most people quit because they become tired of getting their personal worth crushed in an unforgiving industry.
How do you prepare for a role?
Every role is unique to itself; however, the first step is understanding the world to the best of my ability. Then memorization, then geography. Acting is always an interpretation. I don’t believe that any human being can fully become another human being (even though some actors might deny that). It is simply our job to create a physically moving experience out of the text. Very rarely in film do you get rehearsal time, so you always have to use your best instincts, and those instincts are always evolving. Sometimes you show up on set and you have no time at all to prepare, and sometimes you have a week or two. As long as you give it your most serious approach and 100% of yourself, you’ll usually land in the right place.
Tell us about your work in the new revolutionary series “RZR”
I’m the creator, executive producer, co-writer, and play the lead. The most important thing is surrounding yourself with a trusted team; this is crucial for any actor. When I feel confident in the camera, lighting, and directors, it allows me to switch off my producer brain and fully focus on my role as an actor. Being completely off-book for the entire script before production was essential for me. Knowing all dialogue verbatim ensured that I could always deliver, even in the face of unpredictable variables on set. This level of preparation freed up my energy to support the logistical aspects of the production, at any given notice.
I play the lead role of Grimm. Grimm’s mission is to make the world a better place, yet he grapples with anxiety, as a returning veteran from nuclear war. Additionally, Grimm struggles with addiction, hooked on benzos and oxys. I resonate with the complexities of such a character, as I am approaching seven years of continuous sobriety myself. I understand the struggle of being driven yet flawed, trapped by one’s self-destructive tendencies. Like Grimm, I am deeply committed to fulfilling my purpose despite my imperfections.
The polarity of the hero’s journey combined with character flaws is crucial to Grimm’s relatability, allowing the audience to see elements of themselves in him. I often say that, in some ways, we are all Grimm, navigating our own struggles and striving to overcome them.
One of the most challenging scenes for me was when I was held hostage, zip-tied to a wall, and beaten. The difficulty didn’t lie in the physicality of the scene but rather in the logistical challenges we faced. Due to scheduling issues, my scene partner, Richard Cabral, wasn’t available that day. So, when we filmed all the camera coverage on my side, I had to recreate the exact scene from two days prior, this time performing opposite a background player reading lines from an iPhone! Despite the challenges, the scene cut together seamlessly, and the exhaustion from a long day of filming only added to the intensity.
How was the casting for this project?
Casting for this was equally easy as it was hard. A big thank you to Claire Koonce (Beef – Netflix), who brought incredible talent to the table. Some of the roles I wrote for friends, the role of Felix—I wrote for Emilio Rivera; he was the first person I called personally. For many of the other characters, I had to go the traditional route of watching audition tapes and putting offers out around town.
It got a little stressful as we were bearing down on who were going to be the right people to play the roles. When I discovered Mimi Davila, I knew it. Her tape was a slam dunk; it was an easy yes, and Setareki Wainiqolo, I was sold on immediately. But some of the other roles were very challenging; we looked at a lot of people, many different age groups, and diverse backgrounds. However, I’m convinced that the cast we finalized is exactly who was meant to play these roles. I feel honored to have these incredible actors on screen as part of the ensemble of RZR because it truly is a world-class collection of performers. From BAFTA nominee and SAG Award winner Mena Suvari to prime-time Emmy nominee Richard Cabral, and, of course, the legendary Danny Trejo.
Casting a project is like putting a puzzle together; not every piece is going to fit. Oftentimes, actors will get dismayed when they don’t get hired, but they often fail to realize that sometimes, regardless of how good you are, your physical self may not fit as the puzzle piece. This has nothing to do with their talent; it’s got to do with the overall mosaic of what the world looks like. I remind actors that our job is to book the casting room, not book the job. The job is out of your control.
What kind of roles do you like or would like to play, and why?
I like grounded drama—performances that are subdued but have a quiet intensity to them. That’s why the character of Grimm was something that I wanted to sink my teeth into; I wanted to deliver a performance that would be admired by my fellow actors and not be seen as melodrama, soap opera, or over-the-top. Something that even the critics will look at and potentially consider award-worthy. I’m not into multi-camera, sitcom, Hallmark, or Lifetime movies (even though I have done a couple by necessity). The work that I choose to do now is much more on the heavy, dark, dramatic side.
What is the most rewarding part of your work?
I love taking ideas from my head to the screen. I find the journey very rewarding because it’s something that most people can’t do. If you want to go where few people go, you have to do what few people do. When people see the work that I create (upon its completion), typically they’ll have a look of awe, almost an understanding of how daunting the work actually is.
It’s an incredible amount of work to see a project of this magnitude all the way through, but I don’t see it as work; I see it as what needs to get done. For many years, I worked in the service industry, and that, to me, was work that wasn’t getting anything done. That was showing up to get people drunk and pay the bills. Whereas what I do as a creator and as a self-sustaining artist is all part of the process. I find the process sometimes challenging and stressful, but it’s always exciting at the end of the day, knowing that a lot got accomplished and that these small accomplishments are part of a grand picture, a masterpiece to be embellished onto the world.
What advice would you give to aspiring actors who look up to you and want to follow in your footsteps?
Work hard at failing. Create regardless. The only obstacles in your path are mostly created by you. Stay out of your own way. Understand that ‘no’ is the best word you can hear because it forces you to move in a different direction. Nothing is personal. Everybody’s perception of you has nothing to do with how you identify. Work furiously, but do it with tact. Care about your brand. Find your voice and a tribe of people ready to create with you at your level. Have conviction. Make a decision, even if it’s the wrong one—make a decision and never wait. The clock is always ticking. There is always something to do. And have fun along the way. Don’t worry about the end result; worry about today’s results.
Which countries or cities are still on your bucket list?
Reykjavik, Bali, Sydney, Buenos Aires, Cairo, Paris, Madrid, and Johannesburg.
How would your best friend describe you?
An all-out hustler and incredibly hard worker, a caring but no-nonsense kind of dude.
What book should every entrepreneur read?
The Alchemist
What is your definition of happiness?
Peace.
If you could meet someone living or dead, who would it be and why?
Paul Simon. He is one of the most legendary singer-songwriters of the century, and his understanding of gritty poetic verse is unmatched.
Best advice ever given?
Just keep showing up.
Where do you see yourself and your career in 5 years?
In 5 years, I see myself deeply involved in real estate and producing multiple projects annually, diversifying my portfolio globally. However, I say often that I work in the work business and God works in the results business. Predicting the future isn’t my forte. I’ve learned that while I work hard, it’s important to stay open to where life takes me. My focus remains on relentless work today to ensure a bright creative future as an artist and entrepreneur.
Favorite song? Why?
The Boxer by Paul Simon. It’s a narrative of unwavering struggle and trudging against the current to survive on the hard streets of life. It’s relatable and a reflection of my life.
What do you think of social media?
I enjoy it; it’s a necessary evil. I mean evil with the best intentions. As long as you don’t waste too much of your cognitive thoughts on it, because it can crush productivity if you’re not careful. But I do think it’s a great tool for any artist or entrepreneur to get their voice heard. It’s an art form just like anything else; learning how to master it takes dedication and craft.
Where can we follow you?
Favorites:
Book: Happy Pocket Full of Money
Quote: “The only time not worth taking time, is time wasted.” – David Bianchi
Movie: True Romance
TV Series: Peaky Blinders, Zero Zero Zero, Taboo, Vikings
Favorite Food: Anything that I can taste the love in
Travel Destination: Anywhere balmy and tropical
Sports Team: NY Giants