Lisa Surihani likes working with Osman Ali
There is no denying the talents of actress Lisa Surihani, who previously sparked a phenomenon with her acting in novel-to-film adaptation "Ombak Rindu", helmed by director Osman Ali.
The actress has once again reteamed with the director, who is well known for producing tearjerker films, for the upcoming musical, "Sinaran".
The "Lagenda Budak Setan 3" actress, also the wife of actor-director Yusry Abdul Halim, says that she is comfortable working under the direction of Osman Ali as the director is very particular when it comes to full character immersion, leaving the utmost impact on the audiences.
The upcoming musical is a special collaboration among Malaysia, Singapore and Indonesia. It will also feature a cameo appearance by the nation's jazz queen Datuk Sheila Majid.
During the premiere of "Sinaran" at GSC Pavilion Kuala Lumpur recently, Lisa Surihani shared with Cinema Online her experiences filming the musical film.
What were the challenges you faced portraying Shila in "Sinaran"?
A month before filming began, I had to go on a diet and watch what I eat so that my body would stay fit and energised to perform all the dance scenes. I had to eat only nutritious food and lessen my rice intake.
You had to both dance and sing in "Sinaran", was it hard for you to do the dance scenes?
Dancing itself isn't much of a problem to me because I previously learned ballet and this helps me in a way. But I haven't danced in ten years. A talent can 'erode' if it hasn't been used for quite some time. I had to re-sharpen my skills. I am thankful to the dance teacher, Zaini Tahir, who helped us a lot in this film. It's funny that I lost weight during the filming because of all the dancing [laughs].
How was it like working once again under the direction of Osman Ali?
I actually really like working under the direction of Osman Ali because he is a very talented director. What I like about him is that he is someone who really emphasises on character immersion. He also often discusses the script with the actors in order to further develop it.
And how was it like working with Indonesian actor Evan Sanders?
Even though this was the first time for us to be working together, I was comfortable working with him. We matched well with each other and that made it easier for us to be one with our characters. What I can say about Evan is that he is really a talented and experienced actor.
What about your experience working with Datuk Sheila Majid?
Honestly, I was very excited when I got the chance to act with the nation's jazz queen. In front of her, I acted cool and calm. But I was actually nervous. Something that must be praised about Sheila is her commitment to the scene despite it only being a cameo appearance.
Will you be more active in the acting scene since you have recently given birth to your first daughter, Yahaira Leanne?
I will continue being active in the entertainment scene but I will be more selective with future acting offers as they would need to fit with my schedule and status as a mother and a wife.
"Sinaran, starring Lisa Surihani, Izara Aishah, Evan Sanders, Syarif Sleeq and Nadiah M. Din, opens in Malaysia this 26 November. A Singapore release date is yet to be confirmed at time of publishing.
