The American Justice System needs work. We are constantly arresting and wrongfully accusing individuals for crimes they never committed. What is worse is this is much more common for people of color. This is why it is important that movies like Brain Banks helps bring this to light so that we can be more aware and work towards a more fair system. We spoke with the talented actress Mystie Smith about her role as Marilyn in Brian Banks and her experience as an African American female in Hollywood. Please read our exclusive interview below!

Where are you based?
Atlanta, GA

What got you interested in acting?
I kinda fell into acting accidentally. I needed an excuse to stay late after school, and decided to join the Drama Club. After a few plays I was hooked, and started learning everything I could about acting, the art of acting, as well as the business side.

Can you tell us a little bit about the film Brian Banks and your role of Marilyn?
The film is about the false accusations and vindication of Brian Banks. The story resonates profoundly with perseverance and inspiration. Marilyn was a member of the California Innocence Project (CIP) and played a major role in helping get Brian Banks exonerated of all charges. In real life, the CIP has a group of amazing, dedicated people that volunteer their time and energy to help fight countless cases for the wrongly accused. Marilyn was a visual representation of those people throughout the film.

This is a scary situation that certainly happens more than we like to admit. Do you think most kids in this situation are lucky enough to get a Marilyn?
Very much so! And in Brian Banks situation, he was fortunate enough to have a team of ‘Marilyns’ fighting with him. The number of men and women currently incarcerated under false accusations is astounding. Many have been in prison for decades due to crimes they did not commit. This is happening all over the country and the world. This film brings those injustices to the light with the phenomenal help of the California Innocence Project.

How would you like the judicial system changed so that we see less or none of this in the future?
It’s simple. People in that position need to commit to doing their jobs honorably and accurately. Ensuring that the evidence is in fact precise is paramount, and so many of these cases do not have solid evidence at all.

Jejune would love to hear about your experiences as an African American woman in Hollywood.
My experience over the years has evolved tremendously. I have noticed that the amount of acting opportunities has increased for African American women over the years as well as for the majority of other minorities. The prevalent incline in diversity in TV and Film has been exciting to witness. Along with the increase in shows being provided via streaming services, I feel it gives an even bigger platform to experience as an actor.

Do you feel this is just the beginning of the entertainment industry having more and more diversity?
Definitely. As I’ve stated in other interviews, some of the best Television and Films I have experienced has had a diverse cast. In my opinion, I feel it provides more natural layers to any story line.

What changes would you like to see in the entertainment industry, especially when it comes to diversity?
Honestly, more inclusion for the LGBTQ community. I feel it will allow the viewer who may be ignorant to the community an honest and clear insight. There is so much power that comes with diverse programs, and with shows such as POSE, which I am a major fan of, you receive amazing entertainment and an education in every episode.

Please tell us about your upcoming projects.
I can currently be seen in Season 2 of the Netflix, serial killer thriller, MINDHUNTER, as well as in the new HBO series, WATCHMEN, which airs in October.

What is your motto in life?
Everything in this life is temporary… don’t sweat the small stuff.

To learn more about Mystie Smith, please follow her on the below platforms:
Instagram: mystie_smith_
Facebook: Mystie Smith

Cover photo by Jason Vail Photography.

Mystie Smith Talks About The Wrongfully Accused