“Reversi”, Interview with Director Adrian Teh, actors Beto Usyairy and Shiquin Kamal

Fred Film Radio reporting from the 26th edition of the Far East Film Festival in Udine. Today, I had the pleasure of speaking with Adrian Teh, the director of “Reversi,” along with actors Beto Usyairy and Shiquin Kamal. This festival, renowned for its celebration of Asian cinema, has brought together filmmakers and enthusiasts from across the globe, and it’s a privilege to be part of it.

Adrian Teh expressed his delight at being back in Udine, a town he holds dear, and extended his congratulations to the festival organizers. Shiquin Kamal shared her excitement at participating in her first film festival and praised the charm of Udine. Beto Usyairy echoed their sentiments, emphasizing the warm reception they received from the locals and expressing his gratitude for the opportunity to be part of an international event.

Turning to the film itself, I was struck by its departure from the directors’ previous works and its exploration of complex themes such as time travel. Adrian Teh revealed his longstanding fascination with sci-fi and time-travel narratives, which served as the inspiration for “Reversi.” He emphasized his desire to offer a fresh perspective on the genre by introducing the concept of irreversible consequences for time travelers, a departure from the typical portrayal of consequence-free time travel.

Shiquin Kamal shared her initial reservations about taking on her character, citing its emotional weight and complexity. However, she praised Adrian Teh’s persuasive abilities and expressed her satisfaction with her performance. Beto Usyairy echoed her sentiments, describing his experience as an honor and emphasizing the collaborative effort behind the film.

In discussing the film’s title, “Reversi,” Adrian Teh offered insight into its significance, highlighting its thematic resonance with the narrative’s central message of enduring love. He expressed his hope that the film’s title would evoke the idea of irreversible love amidst the backdrop of time manipulation.

I also had the opportunity to discuss the film’s selection as the sole Malaysian entry at the festival. Adrian Teh expressed his pride and gratitude for the recognition, underscoring the significance of representing Malaysian cinema on the international stage.

In conclusion, it’s clear that “Reversi” represents a significant departure for Adrian Teh, exploring new thematic territory while maintaining his signature storytelling style. The film’s selection at the Far East Film Festival is a testament to its quality and relevance, and I look forward to seeing its reception by audiences worldwide. This is Laura Della Corte signing off from the Far East Film Festival in Udine.

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