Vietnamese Actor Works as Unpaid Bricklayer for Folk Horror Role

The Vietnamese folk horror film 'Ma Xó,' directed by Phan Bá Hỷ, recently premiered in Ho Chi Minh City, drawing attention for its exploration of local spiritual beliefs and its cast. The movie delves into the Vietnamese folk concept of "ma xó," or spirits that guard homes, and the anxieties surrounding pregnancy and loss. It tells the story of Phú (Avin Lu) and Thảo (Tín Nguyễn), a struggling couple who, after a miscarriage and the death of Phú's mother, are advised to summon a "vong cô hồn" (a wandering spirit) to protect their family. Their decision, however, unleashes a terrifying ordeal. Avin Lu, known for his romantic roles, underwent a significant transformation for 'Ma Xó.' He shed his "romantic poet" image for a rugged, sun-weathered appearance, portraying a character marked by hardship. To prepare, Lu immersed himself in the lives of construction workers, even working unpaid as a bricklayer on a site. "During that time, I experienced the life of a real manual laborer," Lu shared. "I gained a deeper understanding of their daily work, their lives, their thoughts, and the difficulties they face. What impressed me most was their immense resilience. Their experience and perseverance are truly valuable." 'Ma Xó' also marks Tín Nguyễn's first leading role in a feature film. She admitted to feeling immense pressure, particularly when working alongside seasoned actors she admired from childhood. "As it was my first time playing a lead role, what I felt most was fear," Nguyễn said. "I feared I wouldn't be able to do it, that I wouldn't meet everyone's expectations. Especially with actors I've watched since I was little accompanying the film, the pressure was even greater." However, she channeled this pressure into motivation to learn and improve throughout filming. Adding to the cast is Lê Khánh, who plays Bà Tánh, a mysterious traditional healer. This role represents a departure from her usual comedic performances, requiring her to adopt a more restrained and psychologically intense portrayal. Khánh described 'Ma Xó' as an "interesting challenge" that demanded she suppress her typical acting style and adhere closely to the script's spirit and the director's vision to maintain the character's enigmatic and heavy psychological presence.

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During that time, I experienced the life of a real manual laborer. I gained a deeper understanding of their daily work, their lives, their thoughts, and the difficulties they face. What impressed me most was their immense resilience. Their experience and perseverance are truly valuable.