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Cory’s story! Cory Hardrict stars in the film ‘Destined’

Kam Williams
Cory’s story! Cory Hardrict stars in the film ‘Destined’
Cory Hardrict stars in “Destined.” (Photo: Courtesy Whitewater Films)

Born and raised in Chicago, Cory Hardrict immersed himself in the arts at an early age. His passion and talent led to an enviable and enduring movie and television career.

His big screen credits include “Gran Torino,” “Brotherly Love,” “American Sniper,” “Spectral,” “Crazy/Beautiful,” “Naked,” “Battle: Los Angeles,” “Never Been Kissed” and “He’s Just Not That into You,” to name a few. Meanwhile, he’s appeared on such TV shows as “Law & Order,” “ER,” “Boston Legal,” “Cold Case,” “The Shield,” “Saving Grace,” “Heroes,” “Dark Blue” and “CSI: NY.”

Here, he talks about playing both lead roles in the new film, “Destined,” a coming-of-age saga revolving around alternate possible paths followed by a youngster trying to make it out of the ghetto.

What interested you in “Destined”?

Cory Hardrict: The material! Getting a chance to play two characters in a film was something I couldn’t pass up. Both worlds with two different meanings. Being able to show different sides to a story.

How would you describe the film in 25 words or less?

CH: I would describe “Destined” as a groundbreaking, innovative slice-of-life adventure that reflects the times we live in now.

The movie has two lead characters, Sheed and Rasheed, and you play them both. Was it hard playing people with such different personalities?

CH: The characters were shot like two separate films. But it still had its challenges grounding them. Living in such different worlds kept it simple and real.

What was it like being directed by Qasim Basir, whose movie, “Mooz-lum,” received such critical acclaim?

CH: Working with Qasim was great. He’s a calm director who loves the arts and has a great vision of what he wants to accomplish. He has a very bright future!

How did you get along with Hill Harper, Zulay Henao and the rest of the cast?

CH: Hill Harper was awesome, and he’s such a positive guy. When he speaks, everyone listens, and you can take some key gems and apply them to your life. Zulay was cool to work with. She is passionate about her craft. The whole cast was wonderful, and I had great chemistry with Robert Christopher Riley, who’s an amazing actor.

What message do you think people will take away from “Destined”?

CH: The message I hope people will take away would be that choices and decisions can make or break you. They can alter the next 30 years of your life.