Watch documentaries, meet hackers to embody role: Amir Nafis
Translated from Malay, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Actor Amir Nafis researched local hackers and watched cybercrime documentaries to prepare for his role as an antagonist in the film "Konspirasi."
- He aimed to portray a "Malaysian hacker" with a nuanced perspective, emphasizing that his character, Mikael, believes he is acting justly despite making wrong choices.
- Nafis also sought to break the stereotype of hackers as "nerds" and "anti-social," noting the character's unique traits and his own increased empathy after the role.
Actor Amir Nafis immersed himself in the world of cybercrime, studying local hackers and consuming documentaries to authentically portray Mikael, the antagonist in the upcoming film "Konspirasi." Nafis emphasized his preference for drawing from real people, noting that observing hackers' speech patterns, thought processes, and even typing coordination helped him develop a more convincing character.
"I want this character Mikael to have the soul of a Malaysian hacker, not imitate styles from abroad because our way of thinking is different," Nafis stated. He elaborated that his portrayal goes beyond a simple villain. Mikael, in Nafis's interpretation, is not inherently evil but a highly skilled individual in computing who has made misguided choices. The character operates under the belief that he is pursuing justice, viewing himself as right while the world around him is wrong.
I want this character Mikael to have the soul of a Malaysian hacker, not imitate styles from abroad because our way of thinking is different.
Nafis also aimed to challenge societal stereotypes that often label hackers as "nerds" or anti-social individuals. He explained that Mikael's pursuit of justice, combined with his unique personality, might lead him to appear somewhat "psycho" to outsiders. A significant personal impact of the role, Nafis shared, was a newfound empathy for others' struggles. "When filming ended, I felt more open to understanding people," he said, adding that he now tries to comprehend the heavy burdens individuals might be carrying, making him feel "more human."
When filming ended, I felt more open to understanding people.
Originally published by Utusan Malaysia in Malay. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.