Big reward in a small role

Tony Eusoff ’s role in Orang Itu may be minor but the opportunity to hone his craft is great, writes Syahirah Mokhtazar

WE tend to take things for granted, especially our health and relationships. Nothing lasts forever in life but we often fall victim to the fallacy of permanence. Sometimes, we need to suffer from adversity or experience pain to appreciate the things we often take for granted.

There are many stories and experiences we can learn from and one of them is Orang Itu, a movie that addresses the issue of homelessness while simultaneously raising awareness on hepatitis, liver cancer and lack of access to healthcare among marginalised and street communities.

HEART-WRENCHING STORY

Fresh from playing Captain Jonathan Tuah Merawi, a police detective in the television series Jibril, actor Tony Eusoff switches from solving cases to playing a deaf person in Orang Itu, directed by Low Ngai Yuen.

“I play a small role in this movie but it was interesting because I’ve never played a deaf person before.

“A friend asked if I wanted to be a part of the movie and I agreed because I was interested to learn more about the character,” he said.

The movie, which is in Malay, Cantonese and Tamil, sees Datin Sofea Jane, Carmen Soo, Redzha Minhat in the main roles.

It’s a heart-wrenching story about a mother, Makcik Mawar, who returns to the city that scarred her, but she is on a mission.

Thirty years has passed since she left but she is determined to reconcile with her past, come what may. Makcik Mawar is finely portrayed by Sofea Jane.

Scenes of Makcik Mawar being chased away by a restaurant owner from the premises highlight the problem of homeless people. Although Tony has a small role, it made him realise the things we often take for granted.

“I am more appreciative of what I have in my life,” he said.

SELECT SCREENINGS

The film was screened on the gala night for the launch of the Orang Itu Jade Ribbon Campaign at GSC Pavilion to raise funds for free hepatitis testing for street communities.

The film will be screened at select venues throughout the six-month campaign.

Tony, whose full name is Anthony Jopeph Anak Hermas Rajiman, 41, said it’s a shame that the film won’t be screened widely for the public.

“Perhaps the producers have their own plan to market the film — maybe submit it to film festivals abroad,” he added.

THANKFUL

Tony, who once made headlines after being sentenced to eight months in jail for possession of drugs in Singapore, is grateful for where he is today.

He’s thankful that producers and directors still offer him roles, giving him opportunities to rebuild his career.

Even though he is in his forties, Tony said age was just a number and he would continue to work hard.

“I feel young and as energetic as a 27-year-old. I don’t think it matters at what age you achieve success, as long as you don’t give up on your dreams.”

I don’t think it matters at what age you achieve success, as long as you don’t give up on your dreams.

Tony Eusoff