LAMENTS from senior actors that their juniors are “wooden” seem commonplace.
Fortunately, award-winning actors Faizal Hussein, Que Haidar and Sharifah Amani, as well as versatile singer-actor Khir Rahman, are doing something to help newcomers improve their onscreen prowess — by conducting an acting workshop.
The four actors have the full support of comedian and Meletop host Nabil Ahmad, who mooted the idea to them last month, before the 29th Malaysian Film Festival.
“I may be more of a host than an actor, but I’m a huge fan of Malaysian films and television dramas. I feel upset whenever new actors get branded as kayu by viewers,” he said in a recent interview.
“So, Que, Faizal, Sharifah, Khir and I discussed the need to start an actors’ workshop for those who are making their screen debut.”
Nabil, 34, said the acting workshop would begin next year, if everything goes well.
“The four of them are passionate about their craft and want to see an improvement in the quality of actors.
“They want talent to be the foremost criterion for an actor’s starring role.”
Nabil said they planned to invite more actors to conduct the workshop, and would seek advice and assistance from the National Film Development Corporation (Finas) to make it a reality.
“Newcomers need to be trained before they appear on camera.
“The film set is strictly for working and the workshop is the place for learning.
“The workshop will run for a few weeks and participants will learn the basics of good acting to improve their skills in the shortest time.”
While it is good for actors to have the looks and fan base, Nabil believed talent should always be their main strength.
“Talent can make, or break an actor.”
Nabil said the workshop would be a boon to veteran actors because they would share their knowledge and experience with the juniors.
“By teaching the newcomers, veterans will contribute towards the betterment of the film and television industry.
“Fans will cherish their contributions,” he said.