Jason Cabell was born in Chicago and raised in Denver by his Norwegian mother and African American father. His father, a World War II Navy veteran, served as a 20mm gunner on an ammunition ship during pivotal battles such as Midway and Guadalcanal. Growing up in a mixed-race family, Cabell was acutely aware of societal differences from an early age. Despite not knowing how to swim, his determination led him to enlist in the Navy, where he became a decorated combat Navy SEAL. Throughout his military career, Cabell undertook missions in over 100 countries, experiencing diverse cultures and challenging environments. Notably, he led a 77-person combat assault force in Baghdad during the height of the Iraq War, demonstrating exceptional leadership and resilience. Annenberg Media+2IMDb+2IMDb+2Annenberg MediaIMDb+1IMDb+1
Transition to the Film Industry
After retiring from active duty, Cabell faced the challenge of reinventing himself in civilian life. His foray into the film industry began unexpectedly when he was approached for a helicopter stunt, leading to roles in spec commercials and reality show pilots. Recognizing a passion for storytelling, Cabell immersed himself in studying film scripts, reading thousands to understand the nuances of screenwriting. This dedication culminated in his first independent film, “Smoke Filled Lungs” (2016), which he wrote, directed, and starred in. The film garnered acclaim, winning “Best Picture” at the Milan Filmmakers Film Festival and earning Cabell the Best Actor award. VetBenefits News & JobsThe Travel Wins Podcast+3IMDb+3IMDb+3
Breakthrough with “Running with the Devil”
Building on his initial success, Cabell wrote and directed “Running with the Devil” (2019), a gripping narrative that delves into the complexities of the drug trade. The film boasts an impressive ensemble cast, including Nicolas Cage, Laurence Fishburne, Leslie Bibb, Barry Pepper, Adam Goldberg, Clifton Collins Jr., Cole Hauser, and Peter Facinelli. Shot across multiple locations such as Colombia, New Mexico, and Arizona, the movie offers an unflinching look at the journey of a kilo of cocaine from its origin to its final destination. Cabell’s meticulous attention to detail and commitment to authenticity resonated with both audiences and critics, solidifying his reputation in Hollywood. The Travel Wins Podcast+2VetBenefits News & Jobs+2Annenberg Media+2Annenberg Media+4The Travel Wins Podcast+4VetBenefits News & Jobs+4VetBenefits News & Jobs+2IMDb+2IMDb+2
Directorial Style and Leadership
Cabell’s military background profoundly influences his approach to filmmaking. Colleagues often commend his organizational skills, discipline, and ability to lead large crews under pressure. Laurence Fishburne, who worked with Cabell on “Running with the Devil,” remarked, “Jason is incredibly well-organized and beyond enthusiastic. His script was so clever, fun, and simplistic. The best things usually are simple, and his simplicity brought an elegance to the story.” Such testimonials underscore Cabell’s seamless transition from military operations to film direction, where his leadership qualities continue to shine. VetBenefits News & Jobs+1The Travel Wins Podcast+1IMDb+2Annenberg Media+2VetBenefits News & Jobs+2
Philosophy and Future Endeavors
Cabell believes in aligning with the universe’s direction, stating, “I always seem to end up where I am supposed to be. If you listen to the universe and head in the right direction, then 1,000 hands will push you along.” This philosophy has guided his unconventional journey and continues to inspire his future projects. With plans to write and direct more films, Cabell remains committed to storytelling that challenges perceptions and delves into complex themes. His unique blend of real-world experience and cinematic vision positions him as a distinctive voice in contemporary cinema.
