Up close with Bogyoke

How did you prepare for the role?

I had to quit football after I was selected for the role two years ago. I also had to attend acting classes taught by French instructors. Then, I attended a military training course in Yangon. I spent the rest of my time studying how he walked, his attitude when he talked with his family members and his views on the military. Even in his speeches, his speaking style was different. So I listened to his enunciations and intonations and what words he chose when he wanted to highlight some things in his speech. I had to look at his photos over and over again to study how he smiled and dressed and so on. 

 

How challenging was your role?

I had to memorise the whole dialogue for each teaser. The four teasers cover significant events. The emotion is different from scene to scene. As I'm not an experienced actor, I had to work hard for it. I have done my best so far. Each teaser has faced a barrage of criticism. But I try not to lose confidence.

Tell us about the first scene in which Bogyoke has to send his wife and children to the jungle. 

That scene was really difficult. It was our first time and we had to film it all over again as critics said we wore the wrong clothes. My character was facing an emotional dilemma [in choosing between] his family and his country. I did my best after all.

 

How about the second scene that depicts a battle?

That scene was filmed in Thanlyin. In the scene, a soldier asked Bogyoke when the war would end. I needed to express mixed emotions on my face at the uncertainty of war and the state of my family that I am missing while I was acting.

Tell us about the scene in which Bogyoke delivers a speech at People's Square.

I had to shoot this scene in front of many people. At that time, I had to keep telling myself that not only the people at the site, but also the entire country will be watching this teaser. So I tried to make his voice stand out. I managed to get it right in five takes.

 

What do you think about the last scene about Bogyoke’s assassination?

 There were difficulties in preparing the outfit he was wearing on the day. I had to find a pair of slippers with a white leather strap. I had already checked out the set at the Ministers' Office before the actual filming started. I got quite emotional when I was at the very place where he was assassinated. Though I did my best, I have been criticised for my hairstyle and plump face. I need to keep this in mind when the actual filming starts.

 

How would you gauge your role?

 I'm satisfied with all the four teasers that I have acted in. Since the very day I was cast for the role, I have immersed myself in the work. But I only want the audience to see me as an actor who has been given the chance to play in the Bogyoke film.