INDONESIAN rising star Pevita Pearce joins us on Close-up Culture to chat about her role in Timo Tjahjanto’s inventive horror film May The Devil Take You.
The film will screen at the BFI London Film Festival on 17 and 18 October.
Q: I believe ‘May The Devil Take You’ is your first horror film. Were you nervous about stepping into the genre?
A: I was nervous and exited at the same time, but it was like a dream come true working with Timo.
Q: Timo has a growing reputation in the genre, particularly given his unconventional style. What was he like to work with and how did he help you step into the genre?
A: Since this was my first horror movie, there were so many things to learn. Fortunately, Timo is a visionary and he helped me get into character. It also helped that he knew exactly what he wanted right down to the smallest detail.
Q: I imagine working on a project like this is a great bonding experience. What was it like working with Chelsea Islan (who plays Alfie) and the other cast members?
A: The first time I met Chelsea, we both said we wanted to work together on a movie project. So working together on this movie was really fun! I could not imagine another actor in the role of Alfie – Chelsea was the perfect person to play her.
I loved the energy that we all had on set. Everybody from every division worked hard on this project, giving their best all of the time. It says a lot that I would love to do it all over again.
Q: Do you have any fun or frightening stories to share from your time filming ‘May The Devil Take You’?
A: Everyday was fun. There was always something crazy going on! Not to forget, I had my first opportunity to play a character with a twist psychology and a lot of blood.
Q: Do you have a favourite scene from the film that you can tell us about?
A: My favourite scene is all of the scenes Karina Suwandi appears in. She plays her role with a crazy intensity! Seeing her act is very addictive.
But for my own personal favourite scene, I would say the ending scene between Maya and Alfie.
Q: Do you like horror films and did you find ‘May The Devil Take You’ scary when you saw it in the cinema?
A: I love horror movies! It has always been my favourite genre.
When I saw May The Devil Take You for the first time, I felt like I was on a roller coaster ride – it was gripping! When all the elements (sound design, score, special effects) combine together it creates an unforgettable feeling. It was so scary! I am so proud to have worked on this project.
Q: What has the reaction been to the film in Indonesia?
A: There have been so many good reviews in Indonesia and Malaysia. I hope the response will be as good elsewhere.
Q: You also have a role in Mike Wiluan’s action film ‘Buffalo Boys’, which is currently showing at festivals. What can you tell us about that project?
A: Buffalo Boys was so much fun! It has a very unique concept and it was a very big production. We filmed it in two months, and entering that kind of fantasy world was a challenge for me. I really hope there will be a sequel.
Q: You are one of the brightest young talents in world cinema. What can we expect from you in the future?
A: Wow, thank you so much! I am just someone who loves deep diving into every movie role. I will always try to play something totally different from what I have done in the past, so there will be more surprises to come from me!
Q: Finally, why should UK audiences be excited to see ‘May The Devil Take You’ at the BFI London Film Festival?
A: This movie projects Indonesian mystical culture. It will be something new and different. It is a horror-gore movie with an intense score that will effect your psychology and still be addictive at the same time!