Latest news with #SusukBidadari
New Straits Times
14-05-2025
- Entertainment
- New Straits Times
#SHOWBIZ: Alya Iman carries on father's legacy
YOUNG actress Alya Iman admits that she had butterflies in her stomach when she first found out that she would be playing one of the lead characters alongside award-winning actor Datuk Rosyam Noor in the horror film 'Susuk Bidadari'. As a newcomer, the 24-year-old actress, whose full name is Nur Alya Iman Azmil, says feeling intimidated and excited would be equally engulfing for anyone in her position when paired up opposite such a formidable name in the local film industry such as Rosyam. Rosyam, as we all know, is not by any means just any cookie cutter actor, but a revered veteran who has accumulated a wealth of experience as well as numerous awards throughout his long and industrious acting career. "When I first found out that I would be acting opposite Datuk Rosyam, I said to myself: 'Oh God, that's scary'. "However, that intimidation, feeling awkward and nervous, quickly faded away after spending some time working with him," she recounts. Rosyam's professional attitude towards his young co-star quickly made her delve into her character seamlessly. "Once I got to know him, he's not at all what I had imagined him to be initially. Apparently, he's a funny person and easy to work with," recounts Alya, who is also the daughter of another legendary actor, the late Azmil Mustapha, who was the star of 1980's box-office hits that include 'Mekanik', 'Ali Setan' and 'Suara Kekasih.' Horror debut While her initial reaction was that of intimidation, Alya says she was over the moon for the opportunity that came her way. "Who wouldn't be? It's Rosyam Nor. I knew that I'd be able to pick up some pointers from him while working on this project," shares Alya. She adds: "He has been generous in sharing some acting knowledge with me when we were filming or just resting in-between scenes. "He also shared some advice on how to become a good actress." Alya says working with experienced players would also allow her to be a better actress. "I had been fortunate enough to be in this project. Acting with experienced actors is an absolute treasure for greenhorns like me. "Being on the set is my actual 'acting classroom'. Those seasoned players are my 'teachers'. As a newbie, we should always take this opportunity to observe how they work. And if you have the chance, there's no harm in asking them questions." According to her, that approach is one of the ways to make the job easier, as well as for others too. In this horror flick, produced by Primeworks Studios and Anomali Media, and directed by Faizal Nadxaman, Alya plays the role of single mother Ayu. Ayu and her mute daughter move into the home of a powerful politician Hadiff (played by Rosyam), only to uncover his dark secrets and involvement with black magic. When her daughter becomes possessed, Alya must fight alongside an unexpected ally to free themselves from Hadiff's evil control. Asked if she had encountered any supernatural encounter during filming, Alya answers the question, with relief written all over her face. "Thankfully, no. If you want to know, I'm a real scaredy-cat. Come to think of it, I have no idea how in the world I said yes to a horror film," she laughs. This project marks her first to star in this genre. Filming took place in Genting Highlands, Gombak and Hulu Langat. "But most of the scenes were shot in Genting. So, we were each given a room at a hotel nearby. And yet, I would drive home everyday because I was too spooked to stay up alone in my room there," admits Alya with a grin. However, despite confessing she's a timid person, Alya admits the character played by her co-star Trisha Ooi is cool, which she wouldn't mind playing such a character if an opportunity presents itself in future.
New Straits Times
08-05-2025
- Entertainment
- New Straits Times
#SHOWBIZ: Rising star Trisha Ooi confronts her demons in 'Susuk Bidadari'
EMERGING actress Trisha Ooi is proving that she's not afraid to step into the shadows of the horror realm, with her latest role in the highly anticipated film, 'Susuk Bidadari'. And by all accounts, the talented 25-year-old, whose full name is Reyshqa Aqiera Mohd Nasron Ooi, could not be more thrilled about the opportunity. For an actress still carving her niche in the Malaysian film industry, the ,chance to sink her teeth into a completely new character is pure gold. In 'Susuk Bidadari', Primeworks Studios' chilling new offering with visionary director Faizal Nadxaman at the helm, Trisha undergoes an eerie transformation into a haunting spirit, Seri. "In this film, I play a ghost! It's always fun to challenge myself to try something new. "I even took on my first antagonist role recently, which was a fantastic experience," the effervescent actress reveals with excitement in her voice during a chat session. Trisha's approach to her craft is grounded in a refreshing sense of self-assuredness. Her philosophy is simple yet powerful: give every role her all and steer clear of the often-tempting trap of comparisons, especially when it comes to the work of seasoned veterans. "I've always tried to give my best, pouring every ounce of my energy and focus into each character I portray. "It genuinely never crosses my mind to compare myself to anyone," she insists with a thoughtful nod. "Like with this role as Seri, why would I even consider comparing my portrayal to the legendary Maya Karin in 'Pontianak Harum Sundal Malam'? "She's an icon, a true legend in Malaysian cinema. My focus isn't on measuring up to her past glories. It's solely on whether the audience connects with my interpretation and finds my performance believable." To truly embody the spectral essence of Seri, Trisha has diligently done her homework by immersing herself in the world of horror cinema. She specifically sought inspiration from critically acclaimed films such as Jordan Peele's psychological thriller, 'Get Out'. "It was purely for reference, to understand the nuances of the genre and the kind of atmosphere we were aiming for, not to create a carbon copy. "The charismatic Rosyam gave me some incredibly insightful advice about that. "He pointed out that while watching other movies can be beneficial, ultimately you have to discover your own unique way into the character," she says, referring to Datuk Rosyam Nor who plays the male lead in 'Susuk Bidadari'. Trisha adds: "The most authentic and compelling performances often come from trusting your own instincts and connecting with the role on a personal level." She also views every interaction and observation as a valuable learning opportunity. Beyond simply watching, Trisha actively collaborates with the entire production team, recognising that a cohesive vision is crucial for a successful film. "Before we even started shooting a single scene, I made it a point to have in-depth conversations with the director, producer, the incredibly talented make-up artists responsible for Seri's haunting look, and even the wardrobe department, to gather everyone's perspectives on how Seri should be portrayed." She admits that despite embracing her role in a horror film, she harbours a rather common fear. "Actually, I'm 'penakut' — easily scared! But I absolutely refuse to let that be an excuse to shy away from a challenging and exciting job like this. "Besides, when you're on set, there are so many people around, a whole bustling crew dedicated to bringing the story to life. "There's simply no time to overthink the spooky elements when you're in the thick of filming," she says with a laugh. While the entire production of 'Susuk Bidadari' took around 20 days of intense filming, Trisha's ethereal performance as Seri was mostly captured within a focused seven-day period. She spoke warmly about the invaluable experience of working alongside other cast members such as Che Puan Sarimah Ibrahim. "I had the privilege of working with Rosyam before in 'Memoir Seorang Guru', but this was my first time sharing the screen with the wonderful Sarimah and the talented Alya Iman. "When you get the chance to collaborate with actors who possess such immense capabilities and experience, there is always something profound to learn from them. "Sometimes, they generously share specific acting tips, little nuggets of wisdom gleaned from years in the industry, and other times, the most valuable lesson is simply observing their work ethic and approach to their craft. "If you come to the set with an open mind and a genuine willingness to learn, you can absorb so much," she says. Interestingly, her journey into acting began in the dynamic world of stunt performance. Trisha reveals that she even incorporates some of that unique skill set into her role as Seri. "Stunt acting is where I first honed my performance skills, it's my forte. So why not infuse a little bit of that physicality and nuanced movement into the character of Seri?" she adds with a smile. 'Susuk Bidadari' is set to be released later this year.
