Last year, you made a strong impression with the role of "boss" Kim in the movie "Tai". Also belonging to the line of villainous and powerful characters, what is the difference between Mrs. Sac's evil in the movie "Mesdames Thanh Sac"?
- These two characters are completely different in terms of origin and historical context. Ms. Kim in the movie "Tai" is a sharp smuggling boss in the rural border area, holding underground power in the dark world. Meanwhile, Ms. Sac's story goes back to the 1960s. The movie "Mesdames Thanh Sac" represents the elite class, successful and powerful figures of that time.
Although both are villains, Mrs. Sac is a long-term role, containing many psychological levels, from hidden aspirations to deep wounds. That is the miracle of acting art.
How is the hurt that you just mentioned in a cruel character reflected through the perspective of the person who plays the role?
- When dissecting each layer of psychology to explain why my character had cruel behavior towards others, I realized one thing: The harsher the hurt caused to others, the more harsh it proves that the inner world of the person who took action was also full of obsession and pain. In the end, Mrs. Sac was also a very pitiful version of a woman in the social context at that time.
Does the process of getting into the role and escaping from such a weighty character take up so much of your time?
- The most worrying period for me was about 1 month working alone before filming: Reading the script, searching for materials and struggling to find the key for the character. There are difficult scenes, I have to think about how the character will walk, speak or react correctly.
But when I have grasped the rhythm and entered the stage of practicing with the crew, working with the director, advisors and co-stars, everything goes very smoothly. On set, the psychological rhythm of the character has been clearly defined, I just let myself develop according to the emotional flow.
The work marks her reunion with Luong The Thanh after nearly 20 years since the movie "Coriander Smell", and Thanh Hang after 8 years since the movie "Bright Years". What are your feelings when working again with old colleagues?
- I am very happy because I don't have to spend time learning about Luong The Thanh from the beginning again. The two sisters have had experience working from the stage, so they understand each other's acting styles very well. Thanh grasps the character's psychology quickly and reacts sensitively, helping me to be completely assured.
For Thanh Hang, this can be considered the most complex and heavy role in her career. Many times observing Hang on set, I wonder if it were me, how would I portray the character Cam Thanh? I am really surprised by the energy and high concentration that Hang has put into this project.
Continuously operating through many major film projects, where does your persistent energy come from when audience tastes and box office pressure are always fluctuating?
- That energy comes from innocence and enough love for work. Whether it's a small role or a guest role, I cherish every moment appearing on screen. I don't wait until I enter the film set to accumulate energy, but maintain it from my daily lifestyle: Maintain stable health, observe the reality of life and keep a sincere soul.
Regarding box office pressure, I think the people who are most worried are producers and investors. As an actor, my core task is to fulfill my role well. The success of a film depends on many overall factors, from the time of release, the team's harmony to the communication strategy.
Always maintaining a neat image, saying no to scandals and rarely appearing on social networks, are you afraid of becoming bland in the eyes of the public?
- I have never been afraid of being bland. What I want most is for the audience to remember Hong Anh through each role in movies or stages. If you appear in a project but do not fulfill your role, that is the biggest blandness.
To be honest, I am very bad at updating social media trends or building personal images in real life. After finishing work, I go home. At this age, I want to dedicate my whole mind and energy to invest in expertise.
Amidst a busy film schedule, does the drama stage still hold a "holy shrine" position in you?
- Theater is always a sanctuary. If cinema represents the soul, then theater is a shimmering place, honing acting skills every day. Although the salary or fame from theater cannot be compared with movies, but after each film project, I always return to the sanctuary of drama. Currently, I still participate in plays at IDECAF Drama Stage and participate in the program "Once Upon a Time 37" serving young audiences this summer.
Through most types of roles, do you think about an official title like Meritorious Artist for your journey of dedication?
- The biggest title that I always want to maintain sustainably is the love of the public. I cherish all recognitions, awards or titles from the State and art festivals. When the right time comes, if I feel worthy and awarded, I will cherish and accept it. But above all, to live fully with the profession and be loved by the audience.
Thank you for your sharing!
