Hot scenes are not to attract attention, but to tell a true story
How does actress Van Trang feel when transforming into an ordinary woman, even a bit grumpy and honest in the movie "Ghost House"?
- It was a big challenge for me even though this type of role was not the first time I performed. The new role is a strong- speaking, straightforward woman, even a bit fierce. I was confused about how I would perform.
I asked director Truong Dung to let me go to the local market to observe for a day. There, I watched them talk, call out, debate, do business... They don't act but live very realistically, very naturally. I learned from them the way of "breathing" for workers, fast, quick, but warm. I think if I don't live like them, the audience won't believe it.
This character has many fierce conflicts, far from her true personality. Does playing the role make you tired or haunted after filming?
- Yes! Because I am an emotional person, when filming controversial scenes, I have to "pump" a lot of energy up myself. One day after filming, I came home still angry, still carrying the character's emotions. But that is also interesting, because it shows that you are truly living in the role.
One of the points that caught the audience's attention was the hot scene between her and actor Huynh Dong. For a married person, what do you think about having to do that sensitive scene?
- I understand the audience's interest, but in fact, for those who work, hot scenes are just a part of acting. Huynh Dong and I have collaborated many times, he respects his co-star very much and always puts the story first. That scene was not vulgar or intentional to attract attention. It is a climax of emotions, showing the hurt and bottleneck between two people, not for show-off.
I was not confident in my body to show off. I just try to act so that the audience feels reasonable and not get "difficult". For me, the hot scenes should only be when they are really necessary for the film.
Did you share with your husband about this scene in advance?
- Usually, I send the script to my husband to read first, so he can give me his opinion. But this time the film is urgent, I have filmed it before I can send it. Fortunately, he understands me, the crew, director Truong Dung and Mr. Huynh Dong are both close friends of my husband, so he is assured.
He just said: "Just do what needs to be done for the role, as long as you feel fine and the team is professional". I think trust is the most valuable thing in a relationship.
I don't dare to call myself a box office star
After many years of absence, she returned to cinema in the context of fierce competition in the market, with many young faces emerging. Are you under pressure to prove that you are still "maintaining your form"?
- I don't feel pressured. I think at this stage, I don't need to prove anything anymore. I just need to work well, devoted to the role. If the audience still loves and wants to see it, that is the reward.
Cinema is not an individual race. A successful film is the effort of dozens of people from director, screenwriter, filming, sound, and post-production. I am just a small chain. Therefore, I do not dare to claim to be a "box office star". I just want to be a trusted actor.
Have you ever felt that your acting career has changed too quickly, forcing you to learn to adapt?
- Many times! In the past, audiences welcomed actors through roles. Now, they follow their whole lives and daily lives. Artists must stay more energetic and alert. I also learned how to use social networks, share just enough, not showing off but not "excessive".
To be honest, I am still an old person in the new world, so I always have to adjust so as not to be left behind.
Some people think that TV actors who switch to cinema are rarely successful because of their "heavy- tallied, light- emotional" acting style. Van Trang is a person who has experienced both fields, what do you think about this?
- I don't agree much! TV or film actors have their own values, only different in pace and performance. If the director knows how to lead, the actor will. On the contrary, if the director does not understand how to " remove" the actor's habits, even talent will find it difficult to integrate into the overall film.
I think the important thing is interaction. A director who understands the psychology of actors will make them shine. I am lucky to have worked with such people, when they make me believe that I can still be new after 15 years in the profession.
In addition to art, she also runs a large resort in the West. What did you learn from acting to business?
- I learn patience. Artists often work according to emotions, while businesses must be alert, practical and have a clear plan. When building the resort, I came up with ideas, chose materials, and managed personnel myself. There are days when I have to wake up at 5am, check my room, pick up guests, and then return to the city in the afternoon.
Foreigners look at it as a resort and are happy with the beautiful scenery, trees, and swimming pools. But it was really hard! I am both a mother, a boss, and an actress. No time to take care of yourself. But I am happy, because it is the sweat of my efforts, not the illusion.
Have you ever felt like you were so caught up in too many things?
- Yes, I have wondered why I haven't rested many times. But I am someone who cannot sit still. If I don't work, I feel lacking. I think when you are healthy and energetic, just do it. When I wanted to stop, I could stop without regrets.
She often shares that she has a peaceful marriage. For an independent woman with a career, what helps you stay happy?
- I think it's respect. My husband and I both have our own personalities, but always listen to each other. He understands that I love his job, so he has never stopped me or judged me. We live with both families, so we have more support when taking care of our children. I am truly grateful for that.
When we live honestly, consider each other as relatives, everything is easy. I feel very lucky to have a husband who understands me, loves my children and always cares for the happiness of the family.
Looking back on her journey from a young girl to the role of a mother and wife, how do you see yourself change?
- I feel like I live more slowly, more deeply and know how to cherish every moment. Before, I did everything in a hurry, afraid of missing the right time and falling behind. Now, I choose to do it slowly but steadily. I no longer dream of brilliant success, but dream of peace.
I am not happy because I am busy every day, having to worry about everything.But I am happy, because I can do what I love, to live up to my choice.I think, just need to wake up excited about work in the morning, feel at peace at night, that's enough.
