With the release of Kabir Bhatia's first horror-mystery film "Sembunyi: Amukan Azazil" last week to much fanfare, we sit down with the film's stars such as Fizo Omar and Emelda Rosmilia to talk about their personal experiences during the making of the film. Cinema Online's interview with Kabir Bhatia, Hafiz Hamidun, Tengku Iesta, Fizo Omar and Emelda Rosmilia was conducted on 25 March at Hilton Hotel Kuala Lumpur. First off, to Tengku Iesta, what was it like working with Kabir (Bhatia) again? Iesta: Well, I know that Kabir is a good director. His films have a different quality than other Malaysian films. He brings something different to his projects, and it was interesting to see him try out the horror genre. I am absolutely pleased to have Kabir film something like "Sembunyi". How about you, Kabir? Can you explain "Sembunyi: Amukan Azazil" to the would-be viewers? Kabir: Almost everything in the film can be spoilt so I don't want to reveal too much. "Sembunyi" concentrates a lot on the plot twists and the mystery. There is a twist in everything.
To Hafiz Hamidun, what was it like to create the music and sound for the film? Hafiz: Everything to do with sound was created from scratch, and that's what I liked about it. The sounds, effects... everything! It was a little bit of a challenge to create everything for the film but I think it was all worth it. What is your take on the film itself? Hafiz: Everyone needs to realise that "Sembunyi" isn't just a ghost story. It is not a horror film a hundred percent of the time. It does have romance in it, but it is still very haunting. The music and sound we have created, I hope, will get the audience to imagine the unlikely.
To the actors, Emelda (Rosmilia) and Fizo (Omar) what were your most challenging experiences when it came to playing a part in this film? Emelda: I play a character called Melur, and in one scene I had to do a little dance. That scene scared me, because I really can't dance! (Laughs) I had to learn to do it, old-fashioned Malay style! Fizo: For me, it was working with Umie Aida. She is such an established actress and to work alone with her in certain scenes was pretty nerve-wracking! What made you choose to work on this film? Emelda: I have been working with Kabir for a long time. In fact, I have known him for eight years, so I already recognize what is style of directing is like. Fizo: This is the first time I have ever worked with Kabir Bhatia. He is my idol.