Douglas Smith Talks New Film Exposure and Looks Back on Percy Jackson Films
Douglas Smith is known for his roles in psychological thrillers like Don’t Worry Darling, Ouija, and The Alienist. Now, he’s leading the new mind-bending film Exposure. Pop Culture Planet’s Mandi Laudenslager spoke with Smith about his acting career, the upcoming film, and his iconic role in the Percy Jackson series!
Exposure is directed by Peter Cannon and tells the story of Tanner who is trapped in the cycle of obsessive compulsive disorder and forced to use exposure therapy. “We actually had a conversation before-hand to see if we would be a good fit to work together,” Smith said about Cannon. When asked about his preparation for the role he said, “I didn’t think it would have been the most positive experience if we made the film about me. I think that stuff just comes out naturally.”
He also served as an executive producer, in which he uses the term very lightly. “I don’t want to oversell it! That’s a real vanity title, but I would like to eventually,” Smith said. “I would love to have the time and money to make something I’ve written.” He also revealed his brother Gregory Smith was one of his inspirations for producing and directing in the first place.
In working with many different directors and talented actors, Douglas took a certain piece of advice with him to each set. “Don’t eat yourself out of a scene. On a film set, it’s totally normal to get a steak or apple cobbler at like one in the afternoon,” he said. “I always remember that, even when I was younger.”
The Percy Jackson films were a huge part of Smith’s career. He originated the role of Tyson in the 2013 film and starred alongside Logan Lerman, Alexandra Daddario, and Brandon T. Jackson. Even to this day, Smith gets stopped for his famous role. He shared a funny fan memory. “I was walking down the street when a construction guy came out of a big manhole and was like ‘Tyson!’” he laughed. “And he stopped construction to get a selfie with me.”
It was also recently announced that Daniel Diemer would join the cast of Percy Jackson TV series to play the role of Tyson. “This is the first time where a role I originated will be played by another actor,” Smith said. “I think he’s gonna do great. They know what they’re doing, they don't need advice from me. But I’ll always think fondly of my time as Tyson.”
His new film Exposure is available on VOD.
