Adhisty Zara's dedication to 'Rumah Singgah' includes cancer research and athletic training
Translated from Indonesian, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Actress Adhisty Zara researched bone cancer and visited a foundation to prepare for her role in the film "Rumah Singgah."
- She trained with a national athlete to portray a young runner diagnosed with the disease.
- Zara drew inspiration from a family friend's experience with cancer to deepen her emotional portrayal of the character.
Actress Adhisty Zara immersed herself in the role of Karla, a young runner battling bone cancer in the upcoming film "Rumah Singgah." To authentically portray the character's journey, Zara undertook extensive research, including visits to a cancer foundation to witness firsthand the experiences of children with the disease.
We learned a lot when we visited the foundation directly, because we saw firsthand the children who have illnesses like our characters.
Zara, along with co-stars Devano Danendra and Messi Gusti, delved into the complexities of cancer, studying its various types, symptoms, and potential triggers. "We really dissected what cancer is," Zara explained, emphasizing the depth of their preparation.
We really dissected what cancer is. What are the types of cancer, maybe from the symptoms, what can happen, what triggers it. We delved into everything.
Beyond the medical and emotional research, Zara also faced physical challenges. To embody Karla's identity as a runner, she underwent intensive training with Suryo Agung Wibowo, a former national sprinter. This rigorous training, focusing on proper running techniques, even led to weight loss for the actress.
My father's friend is a cyclist. My character's journey is the same as my father's friend. So I asked a lot. In fact, when he knew about my character's journey, it inspired him as a patient (of cancer) who had lost hope.
Zara found personal inspiration by connecting Karla's story to that of her father's friend, a cyclist who also has cancer. "His journey is similar to my character's. He even felt inspired when he learned about my character's journey, giving him hope," she shared. Portraying Karla's emotional arc, from denial and anger to eventual acceptance and hope, presented Zara with her most significant challenge.
There are so many emotional layers. Because it was really long until she could fully accept it and hope began to emerge again.
Originally published by Tempo in Indonesian. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.