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's mother is Oscar-winner Octavia Spencer (The Help).  Spencer recently talked to us about the film, commenting on how familiar she was with Oscar's story and whether or not that influenced her decision to join the film, the importance of family in the picture and what she hopes audiences take away from the film.

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

Octavia Spencer Interview

• 0:10 – She talks about whether or not she was familiar with Oscar Grant’s story from the news and whether or not it affected her decision to join the picture.
• 1:15 – Talks about her role as Oscar’s mother and the importance of family in the film.
• 2:25 – Comments on getting to know the cast members in order to make a believable family dynamic.
• 3:25 – Reveals what she hopes audiences take away from this film.

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.