Actor and DJ Sammy Leung Chi-kin, known for his wisecracks and exaggerated expressions, has toned things down for his new film, Breeze of July.
The Stanley Tam Kwok-ming-directed romance about a woman - Lan Xian, played by Monie Tung Man-lee - who returns to her hometown to escape debts. There she meets her childhood best friend, Da Tou (played by Leung) and her life changes.
Leung (above) says the role is different from his usual ones. 'I have played a lot of hilarious characters, but this one is more realistic.'
Playing an 'ordinary' role proved difficult. 'When a role lands on me, I usually try hard to think about a way to make my lines and my character stand out with exaggerations.
'And acting as Da Tou, I felt as if I was paid but not having done my job. I have to adjust my mind not to overdo a smile, an expression or the way I read my lines ... I had to keep reminding myself to tone it down. It feels weird, but I'm happy that audiences will get to see a different side of me.'
He described himself as a 'thinker'. 'I think a lot and a lot of times I'm too serious about things,' he says.
So, the funny Leung we see isn't real? 'I wouldn't say that. Everyone has 10 fingers with them, some shorter, some longer. If you stick out your middle finger, people feel offended. To be honest, it's very difficult to establish a career in the entertainment business if you are too serious.