Not mere pranks
1) HAS INTERNET STARDOM BROUGHT ANY EXCITING OPPORTUNITIES LATELY?
I was given the chance to play the main character in ntv7’s sitcom S.O.S. (Sayang Oh Sayang) about newlyweds who discover the adventures of married life.
The sitcom, which is airing soon, is my first role in a drama production and it’s been eventful so far. We are in the process of shooting the 13-episode series.
Essentially, I am a comedian who makes mostly short funny videos and pranks, etc, so you can imagine my excitement at the opportunity.
2) WHAT ARE THE CONTRASTS BETWEEN WORKING FOR A CREW AND ON YOUR OWN?
It differs in terms of work flow. Usually for my videos, it’s flexible and I get friends to help out.
Also, one scene usually takes five minutes to complete, but it’s multiple times longer when shooting a drama.
That kind of work demand doesn’t really bother me much because I understand the situational difference. There is a lot of equipment at play and lighting and camera angles to make perfect.
Technical errors are not taken lightly, especially audio, and we reshoot the scene again. These are standard processes to ensure the audience is well-entertained.
3) CAN YOU BRING US BACK TO WHEN YOU GOT YOUR BREAK IN THE INDUSTRY?
Acting or being in front of the camera was never a dream of mine. I just wanted to share my interests. I started with fitness (street workout)-related content, which mostly focuses on calisthenic exercises ―body-weight training that challenges and conditions muscles.
At the time, people were still new to the workout and because I was among the few on the Internet that promoted it, it got me the digital attention (among youth) in the local scene.
My venture into short-form videos was sparked four years after I got comfortable with social media. I got married, had a kid and built a relationship with entertainment network Vine. The entertainment videos I did (with my wife) were just for fun but people loved them, and this motivated me to continue to create more.
4) IN THE AGE OF “LIKE FOR LIKES”, WHAT CONSTITUTES A GOOD PRANK AND WHERE DO YOU DRAW THE LINE IN TRYING TO CREATE VIRAL VIDEOS?
Of course when empowered with Internet technology, you have to understand that whatever you post (whether good or bad) will have an impact on your audience. My pranks/funny videos usually have a touch of the public service message to highlight public attitudes and behaviour, or raise awareness on current issues.
A lot of people just take out their camera and shoot without giving any thought.
In the case of Logan Paul (American Internet personality) who had a public meltdown after his “suicide forest” stunt, there was minimal contemplation over his actions.
Take into account how you are going to play out a particular topic by assessing the situation when you decide to make a video or write a post. Don’t ever think that you are invincible.
5) WHAT WILL YOU BE DOING IF NOT FOR THE INTERNET?
I would be pursuing a career in fitness, I would still champion street workouts since it is one of my passions. Sadly, I am not involving myself too much in it currently because of other social media engagements and to focus time on my family.
Recently, I had a chance to collaborate in a TV commercial for a brand where I got to showcase calisthenics training. I’m glad I still enjoy it!
6) ANY INTERNET COMEDIANS YOU FIND FUNNY?
@luqmanpodolski and his partner in crime, @adibalexxx.