Opening this weekend is the indie film Fruitvale Station, inspired by the true-life story of Bay Area native Oscar Grant.  Starring in debut feature writer-director Ryan Coogler's film as Oscar is Michael B. Jordan (Chronicle).  We recently got a chance to sit down with Jordan to talk about the award-winning film.  Jordan commented on how familiar he was with Oscar's story from the news, the process of getting into Oscar's head and his experience working with the young cast and crew.

Fruitvale Station, also starring Octavia Spencer, Melonie Diaz, Kevin Durand and Chad Michael Murray, opens July 12th.  Hit the jump for our video interview with Jordan and here's the trailer.

Michael B. Jordan

• 0:10 – Comments on how familiar he was with Oscar’s story from the news and whether it influenced his decision to join the picture.
• 1:35 – Talks about the process of getting into Oscar’s head and talking to Oscar’s friends and family.
• 3:00 – Comments on getting to know the young cast, which includes some of writer-director Ryan Coogler’s own friends.

Here’s the official synopsis for Fruitvale Station:

The true story of Oscar, a 22-year-old Bay Area resident, who crosses paths with friends, enemies, family, and strangers on the last day of 2008.