Getting a nod of approval from Ah Ge Li Nanxing definitely feels like a pat on the back for the new generation of actors.
Just ask Mediacorp actor Zhai Siming.
In a recent interview with zaobao.sg, Nanxing, who plays Siming’s dad in new Mediacorp drama Uniquely Yours, sang praises of the 28-year-old Star Search 2019 alum.
In Uniquely Ours, Siming is a troubled and rebellious young man who struggles to see eye to eye with his father, whom he finds too controlling.
“We actually worked together four years ago. He acted as my employee [in 2021’s The Peculiar Pawnbroker]. I think we worked together quite well as father-and-son this time. He’s also improved,” said Nanxing.
Ah Ge shared that Siming delivered his emotional scenes very well and did a good job conveying his character’s grievances.
“This proves he’s been learning along the way [in the past four years],” he added.
Nanxing, however, felt Siming needs to have more confidence in himself.
“Honestly it’s not just Siming. I feel that the young actors these days all lack confidence. They think too much when playing a role, and would hesitate to go all out when acting,” he explained.
Nanxing added that young actors should be more relaxed, brave and natural if their characters call for it and not be afraid to make mistakes.
“It’s actually fine if they make mistakes. We can always try again,” he affirmed.
He hopes that young actors can get into the right state of mind the moment they get on set and pay attention to the entire storyline instead of only focusing on their own lines.
When asked about the other young actors, namely Zhang Zetong, Richie Koh, Tyler Ten, Ayden Sng, Herman Keh and Zong Zijie, Ah Ge shared that he has not worked with them before but has watched their performances.
“They’ve all been given opportunities. All they need to do is to let themselves go and unleash [their potential],” he said.
Siming was, needless to say, thrilled to hear Ah Ge’s compliments about him.
“I totally did not expect it, this is the first time I’ve gotten recognition from him. This means a lot to me. Not only does it make me feel encouraged, it also gave me a confidence boost,” said Siming.
He admitted Nanxing was always been stern during their scenes together, which made him feel stressed.
“I’m scared to become a burden, so I really worked very hard to get into character and tried my best every scene,” he said.
He also agrees with Nanxing about lacking confidence and shared that he’s still in the midst of discovering and figuring out his craft.
“All these experiences taught me to be more careful. As long as I don’t become a liability to everyone, I’m contented,” he said.