SHAH ALAM SHAZU

ABM Sumon started his journey as a model with international fashion companies. He entered Bangladesh’s film industry with Ochena Hridoy (2015) and was well appreciated for his performance in Dhaka Attack (2017). The actor will soon appear on screen as Masud Rana, the protagonist from Qazi Anwar Hossain’s spy thriller novel series of the same name. MR-9 , jointly produced by Jaaz Multimedia and Silver Nine, is helmed by Bangladeshi-born Hollywood director and actor Asif Akbar. In a candid chat with The Daily Star , ABM Sumon talks about landing the role, his expectations from the film and more.

After a rigorous process, Qazi Anwar Hossain selected you for the character of Masud Rana. How do you feel about being chosen by the writer of the book series himself?

I have been a Masud Rana fan since my school days. Needless to say, the fact that Qazi Anwar Hossain chose me for the role himself was a pleasant surprise. Masud Rana is my dream role and MR-9 will be a milestone in my acting career.

Have you met or spoken to Qazi Anwar Hossain after you were finalised for this role?

I have not spoken to him yet. However, I plan to meet him as soon as things around us get better. I want to seek his blessings in person.

When will the shooting begin?

We were set to begin shooting the film from January this year, but unfortunately, the coronavirus pandemic brought our plans to a halt. We are now looking to start filming in August and our first location will be South Africa.

How are your preparations for the role? Are you nervous?

Of course, I am! Getting to play Masud Rana is a privilege, but at the same time, living up to people’s expectations will be a big challenge, because he is such an iconic character. I have not taken up any other projects at the moment, as I just want to focus on this role. I have been re-reading the novels and trying to study Masud Rana’s psychology, body language and mannerisms.

Photo: Sheikh Mehedi Morshed