Many may not know who Fred Chong is. Fred has risen to be a first time producer for the controversy laden film, "Nasi Lemak 2.0". However, for his first film effort, Fred had to undergo many obstacles and controversies in order to make it a success. The man clearly does not know the art of giving up, and he finally proved that where there is a will, there is a way, with an unexpected record-breaking success. Cinema Online interview with Fred Chong conducted recently at the wrap party of "Nasi Lemak 2.0" at Geographer, Puchong IOI Boulevard.
Q: Everyone already knows about the success of "Nasi Lemak 2.0". As the film's producer, how do you feel about it and what were your real expectations for the film? Fred: I feel proud. The journey towards the production of this film has been long and difficult, but we did it at last. Most importantly were the actors that were involved in the film, for they turned up day after day on-set with high spirits and the belief that this film will succeed, and this made me very proud and touched. In the beginning, I only expected the film to gross RM 4 million only.
Q: What were some of the obstacles that "Nasi Lemak 2.0" had to brave before it made a successful record of RM 7 million in box office earnings? Fred: There were too many obstacles. Some of them were before we launched the film. I had to go to each and every cinema personally to promote the film and assure them that this was a good film that the local people would pay to watch. Besides, we also had some copyright issues with the title, and we had to change it from "Nasi Lemak" to "Nasi Lemak 2.0". Also, after its opening, in Ipoh, there were a few who tried to ban the film, but in the end, we got through to them.
Q: Did the controversies that surround "Nasi Lemak 2.0" helped the film towards grossing RM7 million? Fred: In a way, it did. It also helped made known to everyone about "Nasi Lemak 2.0". However, whether they want to watch this film or not, depends on them. Q: As the producer of "Nasi Lemak 2.0", have you ever felt disappointed towards or thought about giving up in the film? Fred: Honestly, I did feel disappointed, but I never once thought about giving up. Namewee and I are like brothers. No matter what happens we will never think about giving up because that kind of thinking does not exist in us, and we will keep trying until we succeed. Now, we've done it with "Nasi Lemak 2.0". Q: It has been said that you gave out a bonus to the cast and crew of "Nasi Lemak 2.0". Can you tell us about it? Fred: It's not a big bonus though. For me, it was important that I do so to show how I appreciate their hard work and support from the cast and crew towards the film. Q: What is the next project we will see from you? Fred: That is still in discussion. But we will still maintain the same concept, which is the 1Malaysia concept. Q: Congratulations on your success and thank you. Fred: You are welcome and thanks to you too.