In the film adaptation of the 80s TV show “The A-Team,” Cuban actor Yul Vázquez plays Gen. Javier Tuco, a character he describes as “off his rocker.”

Vázquez, who started his career playing a musician in the 1992 film “The Mambo Kings,” has starred in a number of movies and TV shows including “Runaway Bride,” “Traffic,” “American Gangster” and TV’s “Seinfeld.”

During an interview with EXTRA, Vázquez talked about working with director Joe Carnahan, why he is not in favor of movie censorship and what he thinks about Mr. T stating that he thought the new “A-Team” flick was too violent.

EXTRA: What was it about the role of Gen. Javier Tuco in “The A-Team” that made you want to be a part of it?

Yul Vázquez: I don’t think I’ve ever played a guy who is so unhinged. That’s always attractive to an actor because it automatically gives you a tremendous amount of freedom. I was pleasantly surprised when [Carnahan] generously allowed all the actors to freely explore what they wanted to explore without real restrictions.

What in Carnahan’s past work have you seen that put him on the list of directors you’d like to work with?
I had seen “Narc.” It was a tremendous and revolutionary film. I had seen “Smokin’ Aces.” Working with Carnahan is like working with your best buddy. He is excited to be making a movie. He’s blasting AC/DC on the set. The only thing that was missing was tequila.

The violence in “The A-Team” plays a big role in the film. Can you talk to me about how you view violence in the entertainment industry?
I personally am not an advocate of any type of censorship. I’m not a role model. Parents should monitor their kids. When I was a child, it was clear what I was allowed and not allowed to see and there was no discussion or option or negotiation. Whatever my mom said, that’s what went down. Anything that is gratuitous is not good, but it’s fine if it’s warranted and justified and moves the story forward whether it’s violence or sexual situations.

Mr. T, one of the original stars of the TV show, came out recently chastising the violence of the new film. What do you think about that criticism from someone who I’m sure everyone involved in the new film wanted the ...