Marie Dashani’s First Film: A Role With Responsibility

By V. Sankara

KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 30 (Bernama) -- For Marie Dashani Matthews, stepping into her first Malaysian feature film role in Irumbuth Thottam (Ladang Besi) was never about screen presence or recognition, but about carrying the emotional and moral weight of the story entrusted to her.

Marie said she experienced mixed feelings when filmmaker Karthik Shamalan called to inform her that his assistant director, Jaydev Jayakumar, was set to make his directorial debut and had a role to offer her.

“I was super excited and also nervous, but above all I was open to learning and exploring, and to finally realise this particular dream,” she told Bernama.

What struck her most, however, was the responsibility that came with the role.

“It wasn’t just about screen presence, but about carrying the emotional and moral core of the story,” she said.

In Irumbuth Thottam, Marie plays Janani, a Tamil school teacher — a character she found deeply personal. Having taught for more than 10 years, including her time as an A-Level Chemistry lecturer at a private college, she said teaching remains her passion and that she continues to tutor A-Level and IGCSE Chemistry students.

“Teaching is my passion, and so it is for Janani,” she said, adding that the character places strong importance on loyalty in her relationships, a value that is tested repeatedly in the story.

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As a newcomer, Marie, who is an entrepreneur, fashion model and content creator, said she felt grateful to be entrusted with a performance-driven role in a heavy and meaningful storyline that required sensitivity and emotional involvement.

“It allowed me to truly perform, connect with the story and grow as an actor,” she said.

She described working alongside experienced actors as both challenging and enriching, noting that the pressure of being a debut actress pushed her to prepare thoroughly and stay committed to the craft.

Marie also credited the guidance and trust she received from director Jaydev Jayakumar, particularly during the early stages of production, saying she underwent multiple script-reading and rehearsal sessions before filming began.

“I would practise at home, act it out in front of Jaydev and receive his constructive feedback. He is always available via WhatsApp and gives detailed explanations to help me understand Janani better,” she said.

Reflecting on her first film experience, Marie said the project taught her patience, preparation and trust in the creative process.

“There is so much more to acting than what we think it is. I learned the importance of listening, observing and being open to learning from everyone on set,” she said.

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Looking ahead, Marie said she has received positive feedback for her role and is looking forward to seeing herself on the big screen for the first time, adding that versatility is important to her as an actress.

Meanwhile, the film also features a special appearance by Deputy Minister of National Unity and Segamat Member of Parliament Yuneswaran Ramaraj, who makes his first appearance on the silver screen in a cameo role as Tuan Deivigan.

The cast ensemble includes Irfan Zaini, Logavarman Stideran, Mohana Raj, Dhurgaashini, Vino Shan, Vijay Naidu, V. Kogila, Balan Kash, Kalaimamani KS Maniam, Datuk Geethanjali G and Adli Hafidz.

The 114-minute crime investigation drama, produced by AVLT Production in Tamil and Malay, centres on the murder of a 15-year-old student and a police investigation that uncovers hidden secrets within the community, and is scheduled for nationwide release in May.

— BERNAMA