Posted March 19, 2008 -- BET.com caught up with Angela Bassett and Rick Fox to chat about their new film together, "Tyler Perry's Meet the Brown's," which opens in theaters on Friday.

BET: So what was the first thing that went through your mind when you learned Angela Bassett was going to be playing your love interest?
AB: Yeah, what did you think (giggles)?
RF: I had visualized this about a few years down the road in hopes that it would come about. It’s a blessing to have it happen a lot sooner. I think you helped pull me out of this.

There was that fantasy of wanting to have that experience and there’s the reality of actually being in it and remembering that you have to be there. And very quickly, hey, we’re here and it’s real. That was a joy to just be there for that time—not only to meet Angela and make a new friend but to be there for that period of time.

BET: And Angela what did you think when you found out Rick was going to be your man?
AB: What?!!! (laughs) Then we had the first read through and it was like what?!! It was great. Come on back, come on back.

BET: Have you ever in real life had a woman turn you down so many times?
RF: (Thinks) It was at a younger age, but yes.
AB: When, 14?
RF: It was young love and really resulted in the same kind of reaction to the degree that it was that push-and-pull that you know it’s worth it but you just keep getting knocked down.  You slip back into the insecurities and the fear of how do I keep going at this, how do I keep coming back. Harry sees it and every time he slips back into that fear. I’ve lived it and I know it. It’s all about stepping out of that fear and being OK with beginning again and finding someone who is struggled with the same things.

BET: Angela, have you ever played this hard to get in real life?
AB: Let’s say yes (laughs)! I don't know when it’s right, when it sparks, hopefully it’s not difficult. When it happens that’s mysterious. Sometimes it’s right but the wrong situation and sometimes it’s the right situation but the wrong person. It’s every kind of combination conceivable. So, someone would probably say yes.

BET: What’s so appealing about being in a Tyler Perry film?
AB: I love his story, I love the sensibility, I love his audience…
RF: His passion for his audience, too.
AB: And the passion that the audience has for him.

BET: Why do you think he’s continued to be so successful?
RF: He’s stayed true to it—what he has to offer.
AB: What he knows best. What he believes in, what he’s passionate about. This really eminates from his spirit, from his heart. That shows. That’s what grabs you.