Choose roles wisely, says Catriona Ross

WHEN it comes to getting a foot into the local film industry, newcomers would agree to any opportunity offered, even if it means acting in films or dramas that produce cliché plots, all for the sake of building a name.

While it was not wrong to pursue quantity over quality at the beginning of an acting career, it was still important to pick and choose the roles offered, said actress Catriona Ross.

“As an actress we want people to respect and look up to us for the work we produce. The projects we are involved with should be of good quality.

“If you feel that the role offered is not suitable or it may tarnish your name, then scout for more,” she said at the launch of fashion-café Syle Annexe X Coffee Bay in Kuala Lumpur.

“This is also the reason why I am quite selective. I want to ensure that the roles I carry bring the desired impact to the viewers as well as myself,” she added.

Speaking about producers who churn out cliché plots in love stories, Catriona said: “While it can be a cute and entertaining watch, we can’t have similar products in the market.

“What about viewers who prefer historical stories? Or the ones that inspire or educate? We have to cater to them as well,” she said.

The 37-year-old actress, who was at the set of a new TV drama Dia Pengantinku, was commenting on the concerns raised by some actors on how the local film industry is flooded with films and TV dramas that carry cookie-cutter plots.