Cast and crew of the Hong Kong film Line Walker-2 continued filming scenes of the action thriller at the eastern entrance of Shwedagon Pagoda yesterday. Young Myanmar actors involved in the film, and supporters and observers to the film set were interviewed for their experiences.
Director Ko Pauk
“They have been taking this cut 20 times already. They have a lot of camera equipment and ones you can film from cars. Their techniques and large crew are something to be admired and respected. I have an entry card so I can observe up close and I have been visiting almost everyday since I live close to the set. There is nothing to compare since it’s an international film.”
Police Major Myo Aung Myint, Traffic Police Unit 7
“They were filming along Gyar Tawya Street in front of the eastern entrance of Shwedagon Pagoda. I’ve heard the film commemorates close relations between the two countries, and will showcase Myanmar’s participation in the global push against human trafficking. As traffic police, we are stationed here to regulate smooth traffic and ensure the filming proceeds uninterrupted.”
Daw Swe Zin Htike (Managerial member of Film Development Centre)
“Filming took place on Gyar Tawya Street from 6 am to 1 pm and they will continue filming downtown after that. The film wanted to include the stalls along the eastern entrance but I don’t know what was misunderstood because all the stalls have been cleared. Nevertheless, we set up with what we had for the filming.”
“They wanted to include the Shwedagon Pagoda in the film too. This scene is where the police are chasing the villain. The location is important. They are professionals and their work ethics and teamwork are strong. We can see everyone working uniformly under the director’s administration.”
“We invite everyone from the film community to come observe if they wish to. The Ministry of Information has arranged for permission. There are some Burmese actors involved in the film too.”
Police Brig-Gen Win Khaung (Retired) (Advisor to Yangon Synthesis Productions)
“All the actors from their country have all their insurances covered, and I think it’s something we should emulate. The people hired here have local insurance coverage as well. Our country will surely benefit a lot from having such a large company come film here. We still have a long way to go to break out onto the global stage on our own. But filming together with world renowned actors and actresses will boost the image of our country as long as we are featured in the film. This will also send a message to the world that our country is open to major film projects.”
Nay Htet Aung (Actor)
“I play the role of a special police officer from the counter terrorism unit. This film has given me the opportunity to work alongside with foreign actors. They have given us support too. In our own country, we don’t do more than 10 sample takes but they do about 50 takes. People like me who have been out of work for some time finally have a chance to act again. I wish to invite more international films to come shoot here.”
Aung Myint Myat (Actor)
“They have covered life insurance for us and are employing dozens of local talents. We learn so much from them and receive a lot of opportunities. Like I’ve said before, I will be involved in the film no matter what role I have to take. You can’t tell when another opportunity like this will come again, so I auditioned for a part just to get the experience.”
By Thi Thi Min, Min Thit
(Translated by Zaw Htet Oo)
