Why was Traitor an important film to make in today's political (and filmmaking) climate?

Don Cheadle: I don't know that I would use the word "important." I leave that up to the viewer. It caught my interest because it dealt with a complex issue in a way that wasn't as black and white as other offerings in the genre.

The world is a much more complicated place than it used to be, and film audiences have grown more interested in morally ambiguous heroes. Is that a good thing?

DC: I think it's good that people are more open to characters that are complicated, in a certain kind of film experience that is. I think people still want clear good guys and bad guys in the tent pole blockbusters but are more amenable to the grey areas. Most of us live there anyway.

You've helped to raise the issue of genocide in Darfur. Although there's been an increase in attention on the region, the violence continues. What needs to be done there?

DC: A lot needs to be done and hopefully with this new administration, more will be. We need to engage in a very robust and committed negotiation process that brings everybody to the table while also protecting the innocent as well as seeking justice. We need to be in support of the ICC [International Criminal Court] and get behind the indictments that the court has requested.

We fondly remember your guest starring role on "The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air" as Will's friend, Ice Tray. What role would you name as your funniest performance? What is your favorite early role?

DC: My funniest performance...? That is a question for you. I don't really like watching my own films too much. I had a very good time working on Rebound [The Legend of Earl 'The Goat' Manigault].

Want more Five Favorite Films? Check out previous installments with Robert Pattinson, Kevin Smith, Guillermo del Toro, and Judd Apatow.