 Additionally, Johnson recalls that his “most enjoyable work as an actor” was done under Gordon Parks.Specifically, Johnson says, “I really enjoyed "The Learning Tree;" for me it was like being part of a tight-run ship, a well-oiled machine.You do your part and you recognize its importance and relationship to all the other parts, cast, crew, director and so forth.”

Parks is remembered for following his instincts while filming, and for also encouraging the actors to follow their own instincts while acting.