Colman Domingo awarded 2025 Montecito Award @SBIFF

Domingo, known for his versatility and commanding screen presence, reflected on his journey in the entertainment industry. He spoke candidly about perseverance, stating, “I just kept going and believed that the love I was seeking would also be seeking me. I just always believed that.” His remarks resonated with attendees, highlighting the resilience and dedication that have shaped his career.

During the discussion, Domingo revisited some of his most memorable roles. Speaking about his experience in Selma, he emphasized the film’s significance in humanizing Civil Rights leaders beyond their historical legacies, praising director Ava DuVernay for her visionary storytelling.

On Fear the Walking Dead, Domingo shared insights into his character, Victor Strand, describing him as having “a complicated moral compass” in a world driven by survival. He explained how he embraced the ambiguity of the role, leaning into the complexities that made Strand both enigmatic and compelling.

Domingo also touched on his portrayal of Ali in Euphoria, emphasizing the character’s role as a guiding force for Rue, played by Zendaya. He noted that Ali is “not there to judge her. He is just there to present her with options and opportunities.” This nuanced perspective underscored Domingo’s ability to bring depth to his characters, making them relatable and multi-dimensional.

Discussing If Beale Street Could Talk, Domingo praised director Barry Jenkins and the film’s portrayal of strong Black families. He highlighted his character, Joseph Rivers, as “a feminist who loves that he is in this hustle with strong women in the 1970s,” challenging traditional notions of masculinity.

Reflecting on Zola, Domingo described the layered nature of his character, X, explaining how “he was using language to control a room” and how he played the role with “a lot of charm and finesse” while maintaining an undercurrent of menace.

Domingo’s recent work in Rustin was a major highlight of the evening. He shared the profound connection he felt with the role of Bayard Rustin, the often-overlooked Civil Rights leader. “It felt like we were in alignment. That Rustin’s journey and my journey were meeting at the exact moment,” he said, acknowledging how his own personal and professional experiences had prepared him for this career-defining role.

On Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom, Domingo reflected on working alongside legends like Viola Davis and the late Chadwick Boseman. “We were in a room making choices and interrogating the work together. The best in the business were in the boxing ring together, and you knew there could only be good work.”

Addressing his role in The Color Purple, he delved into the challenge of portraying Mister, a character often viewed as a villain. “It’s easy to think of Mister as a villain and as an abuser. But what is complicated is finding the heart of an abuser. Why hurt people hurt other people.” His perspective added layers to a historically complex role.

Domingo’s Montecito Award recognition comes on the heels of his Gotham Award win for Outstanding Lead Performance in Sing Sing, further cementing his status as one of Hollywood’s most compelling talents. The Santa Barbara International Film Festival continues to celebrate artists who have made a significant impact on the industry, and Domingo’s body of work exemplifies the depth, power, and humanity of great storytelling.