STAR POWER
Hong Kong actor and singer Carlos Chan Ka Lok shares with Tasha Lim, details of his time filming in Malaysia, and why his latest movie is a must-watch
Having won Best Supporting Actor at the 2015 Macau International Movie and TV Festival for his heartfelt performance in the 2015 film Happiness, Chan is most definitely a man on the rise. The actor has no problem letting his fans keep up with his daily life, with a growing number of followers on social media—where
How long were you in KL for and how has your experience been in the city?
It was my very first time in Malaysia and I really enjoyed myself. I was here for more than a month, but was working most of the time. I noticed many similarities between Hong Kong and Kuala Lumpur. For one, both are big cities with international brands in its shopping malls.
Where in Malaysia did you film?
We filmed everywhere from Genting Highlands to Salak South. We specifically tried to look for places that are old and creepy looking— semi-torn down buildings were the perfect setting for a sense of authenticity in our film. After all, the movie is a horror story regarding properties.
Tell me about your new upcoming film Buyer Beware.
The film is a ghost story we can see Chan, who is also musically inclined, playing the guitar in his free time. Having starred in hit Hong Kong films like Diva (2012), To the Fore (2015) and The Mobfathers (2016), his newest film, Buyer Beware, is set to be another big screen hit. We caught up with the charismatic man to find out more about what he loves about Malaysia, the details of his latest project and what his plans are for the future. that revolves around the property industry— an interesting type of genre for me. My character is actually someone who has a lot of integrity, but there is a saying in Hong Kong that ‘if you do everything right (by the book) you will end up being a beggar.’ My character starts a new job working for an employer who does not have a conscience and harms his clients due to his lack of morals, especially in his property dealings.
What is it about your character in this film that excites you the most?
I am used to playing parts in love stories and family-oriented films. This is only my second time acting in a horror movie and playing the lead role was extremely intense. I am terrified of ghosts and was genuinely afraid throughout the whole filming process. But even though I have a fear of the supernatural, I would do it again. In fact, I will be shooting another horror movie after this in a deserted house occupied by bats!
How do you find Malaysian food?
I have been to Jalan Alor! And I must say that I love Malaysian food. It is very much to my taste because I love spicy flavours. Something I don’t usually get, back in Hong Kong.
What are your plans for the future?
Ever since I got involved in the film industry, some 10 years ago, one of my main goals was to star in a film alongside my idol, Andy Lau. This has yet to happen, but I am hoping it will, someday soon. Also, I am hoping to take on more ‘serious’ and ‘mature’ characters in the future, to develop my talents and showcase my diverse range to fans.