Members of Hosaywood: Linda Low
As one of the three highly acclaimed actresses in Zo Peng, Linda spouts army lingo with surprising ease. Her performance as an ORDeed NS’man’ was brutally honest – down to the last Hokkien word.
Now, the shocker: Off screen, Linda is an articulate and passionate ‘engrish’ teacher.
The energetic fireball is also actress, crew & calefare in the other Hosaywood films. A lady with heaps of talent and passion for performance arts *drum rolls* we present you a hilarious interview with Linda Low:
What are some of your interests?
Eat, sleep, kpkb (kao peh kao bu)
Any favorite films/actors/plays?
I am into slightly experimental theatrical productions and the occasional musical. Japanese troupes are usually quite interesting. Local theatre groups are fantastic too! Love the Dim Sum Dollies, and the scores of local actors who make each production an interesting experience.
I also love hilarious movies like Detroit Metal City, sentimental ones like Love Actually, and occasionally, angsty ones like 12 Storeys (but usually I steer clear of depressing films with long cuts, still shots…).
Tell us about your role in Zo Peng?
Jacen was the friend of a friend, who knew that I was a solid slacker with a penchant for constant snacking. I didn’t have to try very hard to get into character. The only difference is that I’m a sucker for Popeye’s instead of the army OETI fried chicken.
What did you think about the script?
Wah piang eh, hua-yu (and Hokkien) cool lor!
How did you prepare for the role?
Refer to “hobbies”. Plus intensive rehearsals lasting a week focusing on appropriate language use (ie, Swearing 101).
Experience during the filming process?
It was an unforgettable experience! Being in productions make me feel alive. We were (fine – I was) really snacking throughout. Chocolates, fruit, “Mental” mints (which were not allowed to be named “Menses”)… Unfortunately I constantly flubbed my lines, but thankfully everyone was really patient with me.
Your thoughts on the film ‘Zo Peng’? Did you like it? Anything that you think could be done better?
Zo Peng was filmed in one night (which ended in a downpour), using the barest minimum amount of equipment and manpower, so I think it turned out really great. By using females, it gives a fresh perspective to the longstanding grouses of NSmen. In addition, I feel the static shot in all the scenes reflected the characters’ angst at their inability to escape their current situation. If I could turn back time, I’d definitely have practiced swearing more…
On your star power after the film was screened – Any fans?
Standing, wall, or battery-operated?
What’s coming up these days?
Hopefully I’ll be involved as a volunteer performer at Esplanade’s Flipside in late May.
Any interesting projects that you’ve heard of recently?
The arts scene in Singapore is more vibrant than anyone thinks it is. There’s always something going on somewhere. We just have to find the time to explore and have fun! (Meanwhile, I’m slated to catch Shakespeare in the Park in May, plus 4 productions in the Arts Fest, not forgetting all the free screenings, art exhibitions…)
