Ahmad Rusli Khadri a.k.a Abang Ollynn is finally more comfortable helming the director's seat after spending years working behind-the-scenes of numerous local films. This year, in the month of June alone, the Kuantan-born filmmaker is already looking at two of his productions in cinemas nationwide as his directorial debut "X" was released on 7 June and at the end of the month he would see to the release of his romance flick "Hanya Aku Cinta Kau Seorang".
Cinema Online interview with Ahmad Rusli Khadri conducted on 18 June at TGV Sunway Pyramid, Petaling Jaya.
Q: How did you get yourself into the director's seat?
Khadri: Well, I started my career by doing productions for music groups and later I spent years on filmmaking, especially on graphic work. My effort had drawn attention from the people in the industry. My friends introduced me to them due to the potential I have. I worked hard and eventually got the chance to become a director.
Q: We have seen your directorial debut "X" in early June. Now you have another one called "Hanya Aku Cinta Kau Seorang", how do you feel now?
Khadri: Nervous. You know, me and my team had put in a lot of effort for this movie. We can't wait to present it to the public, but at the same time we feel the pressure regarding the feedback from the audience.
Q: What inspired you to shoot this movie?
Khadri: The beauty of the relationship between friendship and love. I want the audience to have exposure on the concept of platonic love. People are always wondering how an individual can handle friendship and love together with a person in their daily lives. This movie is an answer for them.
Q: What's so special about the story that is able to attract audiences?
Khadri: Actually the theme is not very special as it has been used over and over again by the Hollywood filmmakers in the past. I just want to create a story that reminds people on the greatness of having an affectionate relationship without having sexual intimacy. After watching this movie, I hope the audience can start thinking about whether love can survive without friendship or vice versa.
Q: How do you grade Aeril Zafrel's performance in this drama?
Khadri: He performed well for his role. Aeril has a lot of potential and he has been developing himself in the industry for quite some time. We decided to bring him to another level with this film.
Q: What about Nuremy Ramli?
Khadri: This is not the first time we have worked together. I know her very well and I'm very satisfied to see her handling her role in such a beautiful manner.
Q: Your upcoming project?
Khadri: Yes, I'm working on a movie called "Strawberi Cinta".
Q: What is your favourite movie of 2012?
Khadri: I have to say "Men In Black III". I have been following the franchise for so long. There were some flaws in the movie, but they did not affect the story much. I still love it.
Q: Thank you, Ahmad.
Khadri: No problem.
