Dennis A. Amith interviews Linda Wang (2000) - Page 3

Continued from Page 2

AC (DENNIS): When I read that the director insisted that the crew continue filming during a hurricane, the first thing that came to mind was how crazy a decision that was.  Many directors wouldn't put their actors in this position.  What went through your mind when he made that decision?
LINDA: Well, let’s put it this way, the director of the film "Birds of Passage" also wrote the screenplay and co-produced the film. He had tons of responsibilities within this project and he he had to meet the budgets and deadlines daily. He is well known in Europe for directing award winning documentary films, and "Birds of Passage" is his second feature film. There was a lot of tension among all of us due to the weather conditions and the gorilla style type of filming. I can't totally agree with all the decision-making, especially on those hurricane rainstorm scenes involving young children. But then again this is coming from an actor's point of view.

AC (DENNIS): With all the issues and fighting that went on in that ship, did you feel at all scared that your life was in danger, not with the natural causes but from the craziness occurring on that ship? LINDA: They took real animals for the sacrificing scenes and hired children from orphanages in Cebu to portray the 109 Chinese orphans within the film.  With the help of the Filipino navy, they used real M16 machine guns and battleships for the fighting scenes. I was actually more concerned about the children onboard the ship. But the production did hire the Filipino Navy Seals to protect us just in case any of us fell off the ship or if there were water or fire related accidents. But let me get back to your question. Yes, I was concerned. Ordeals occurred each and every day. Everyone including myself was extremely cautious and we all tried our best to do our jobs.  I was learning each and every day about the gorilla style type of filming which was so fascinating. Also, having to deal with human relationship

Birds of Passage:  Fu-Ling (Linda Wang) awaits her fate on-board a ship to a brighter future.

in a confined and restricted space on broad a huge cargo ship in long strenuous working hours each day was definitely a challenge. Toward the middle of the filming, some European and Filipino film crews would just walk off the set and never return. It was a mad house and definitely was an experience of a lifetime.

AC (DENNIS): You had a lot of fun filming in the Philippines but when you returned to the US, what was the first thing you did?
LINDA: The first thing I did when I came back in New York was rushed over to one of my favorite Italian family restaurants, "Pete's Downtown" which is located near Old Fulton street under the Brooklyn Bridge. I ordered my favorites such as "Zuppa di Mussels", "Mushroom Timbale" & "Turbo Livornese" and ate like a starving mad woman! (Laughter)

AC (DENNIS): When you told your family and friends about your experience shooting this movie, what kind of reaction did they have?
LINDA: They told me I must be insane! They couldn't believe what all of us went through on the ship during the intense hurricane rainstorm, and were extremely happy to see me back in one piece.

AC (DENNIS): With other Asian actresses I have interviewed, I have asked some if they would ever do nude scenes.  Actress Kelly Hu said that it depended on the role and type of the movie.   Actress/Model Esther Hwang said never because once you show something, you lose the mystery.  Would you ever do any nude scenes in a movie?
LINDA: It really depends on the project itself and the director. I have no problem with nudity as long as if it's justifiable within the scene and the character that I am portraying. However, I would never do a nude scene just because it can bring in more profits and sells tickets.

Photo by Robert M. Putko

AC (DENNIS):  Let's talk about the "Eskimo Girl" skit on Conan O'Brien?  How did you get involved in this skit? LINDA: Initially, I have auditioned for them.  They always hire skit actors for the different skits on the show.  Once you get on the set a couple of times, you get to know the writers and the people on the sets.  I'm very fortunate because whenever they need someone for skit works and it's suitable for my type of character, they would consider me.  One time I spoke to the casting director and we talked about how even with non-traditional castings, with a character that's funny and it doesn't have to be Asian to please consider me for the part.  They said why?  We discussed about why they use Caucasian actors for Eskimos and it made me very sad that with work so limited for Asians on television and I told them that since the majority of the Eskimos look Asian, why don't they hire Asians and they said I made a good point.  I believe in standing up for my rights.  You need to speak out.

AC (DENNIS): I’m curious.  Do you like to watch yourself on television?
LINDA:  No, because I am my worst critic.

AC (DENNIS): Do you remember your reaction when you first saw yourself on television?
LINDA: Oh my... Is that really me? I wish I could have done that scene a totally different way.

AC (DENNIS): What encouraging words of advice would you give to a fellow reader who would like to pursue a career in print modeling or acting?
LINDA:  If you want to get into this business and are willing to devote the time and effort to invest in yourself in whatever obstacles within, then you are probably right for this business. It's definitely not as glamorous as it appears to be. It takes an intense desire, a professional attitude, well-developed skills, persistence, talent and hard work. Many successful people in this business fought against every possible obstacle until the monster of defeat finally surrendered and they made it.  So follow your heart and dreams. Make sure this is what you love to do and proceed with caution. And always remember to work on your craft and do your research on this field and take it one step at a time.