As he did in the critically acclaimed 2003 drama "Antwone Fisher," Washington will not only have a hand in directing the film, but will also staring in it as Professor Melvin B. Tolson. Photography began in mid-May in Rusk, Texas at the Texas State Railroad following an earlier surprise visit to Rusk by Denzel. Tolson, leads his team of skilled debaters on to challenge Harvard in the national championship. ‘Stomp the Yard’ star Columbus Short will reportedly play one of Tolson’s students.