A woman of presence, is a perfect way to describe Liyana Jasmay. Upon meeting her for the first time for an interview after her profile photoshoot, Liyana exuded confidence with her bold and charismatic personality. Literally commanded attention without needing much effort, yaaas queen!
The Malaysian-born actress who grew up in the bustling heart of Kuala Lumpur initially did not come from a family of entertainment. She first graced the television screen when she was just 10-years-old, as a supporting character to the main heroine in ‘Si Lembik’, directed by none other than Datuk Aznil Nawawi.
Thanks to her full spirit and sweet personality, it was easy for her - like a piece of cake, to connect with people in the entertainment industry.
“I’m a very friendly and easy going person, so I became friends with the production manager. Then, the project manager called me in to act in multiple dramas, till I met Datuk Rosyam Nor,” shared Liyana.
According to Liyana herself, she had the opportunity to act in one of his first dramas and movies. She then starred in ‘Castello’ directed by Bade Haji Azmi, made it to the big screens and was even nominated for ‘Pelakon Wanita Harapan’ at Malaysia’s 19th Film Festival in 2006.
“When I act, I never do it for awards. Winning an award to me is a bonus and a ‘rezeki’ from god,” said Liyana, who drew inspirations from American actresses such as Anne Hathaway, Kirsten Dunst and drama series like Orange County.
Unbeknownst to many, the Kuantan-born actress, singer and businesswoman has been dipping her toes in the world of filmmaking. Her career background and journey to become a filmmaker, makes the 34-year-old an inspiration to young women.
HER FIRST TASTE IN FILMMAKING
Although Liyana is known to many as an award-winning actress starring in local movies such as Histeria, Papadom, Kami, and Tolong Awek Aku Pontianak, little did you know, she has been making moves behind the screen as a filmmaker. Having graduated with a Diploma in Performing Arts and Media, and 6 months of pursuing Art of Acting, Directing and Screenwriting back in New York Film Academy (NYFA), Liyana finally put her directing skills to use.
“I first became interested in filmmaking when I realized that whenever I produce or write my own scripts, the output is not as what I envisioned. At that moment, I was like I don’t want to give other people the ability to direct my own work anymore. I want to take charge of it and felt that it was about time to explore something new,” explained Liyana.
A feisty go-getter, Liyana decided to take matters into her own hands and begin directing her own films under the banner of her own production company, Mermaid Studios. But, of course with the help of her sister, Adriana as her producer.
When Liyana first ventured into the world of filmmaking, she recounted her experience that she wanted to become more assertive when it comes to her own work.
ON WHAT IT MEANS TO BE A FEMALE FORWARD FILMMAKER
Films have the power to change society, and that’s what most filmmakers aim to create. What used to be a male-dominated industry is now changing for the better. We can now witness more female representation in the film industry, where female filmmakers have been thriving and producing groundbreaking arts.
Renowned world female filmmakers such as Ava Duvernay, Chloe Zhao, Greta Gerwig, Kathryn Bigelow, Patty Jenkins, Sofia Coppola are all great examples of female forward filmmakers who have changed the film industry.
As for Malaysia, Erma Fatima, Indra Kopal, Min Lim, Nadiah Hamzah, Vimala Perumal, and Yasmin Ahmad are some of the many supremely talented Malaysian female filmmakers we ever had. Not to forget, Liyana Jasmay - one of the many rising local filmmakers, with a mission to produce as many films as she can to create as many voices for women to be heard.
“I want to be able to create female directors and producers, for us to be working together. My sister is an example! She is my producer. I want our films to be shared across the world, not just Malaysia but also to bring our films to other countries,” added Liyana.
ON THE FEMALE STEREOTYPE IN FILM INDUSTRY
In the film industry, female filmmakers aren't celebrated as much as male filmmakers. However, they continue to create and direct noteworthy films, while marching forward to challenge the stereotype of the male-dominated industry.
Liyana’s journey as a rising filmmaker talks about taking charge in the film world and emphasizes the importance of female storytellers.
“Of course there's a stereotype between men and women in the film industry because there’s not a lot of female filmmakers and most of them are underdogs, even if they create good films. To be great in this industry, you need to be tough, like a gangster, gotta be an OG - meaning, if you want to enter this world, you have to be seen and heard.
“In Malaysia, there are many great female filmmakers but young filmmakers? Not that many. So, that’s why as a woman in a male-dominated industry, we have to be true to ourselves, focus on what we want to do to make sure our voices are heard. It’s challenging but you gotta be strong,” said Liyana.
HIGHS AND LOWS OF FILMMAKING
As Dawn Gluskin once said, “Life is full of highs and lows. We need them both to grow to our fullest potential. Just hang on tight and enjoy the ride.” At the beginning of her filmmaking career, Liyana experienced bittersweet moments, one that included receiving backlash and criticism of her own work.
“Always remember to not take it personally and just take it as a lesson to not do it again, improve yourself and then you’ll do better,” shared Liyana.
Ever wondered how she handled it? Well, she handled it like a boss! It didn’t faze her one bit, it just ignited a burning passion in her to polish her creative work and to continue doing what she loves the most!
“I will not stop creating because I love it, I love filmmaking. It’s a joy for me and when people watch my work I feel extremely happy. But of course, I’m still new in this field and I’m still learning everyday,” said Liyana when sharing about the things she’s passionate about.
To Liyana, every project, be it small or big is a practice for her. She even admitted that to be the best, you have to start from scratch, go through the highs and lows, face mistakes and errors to get where you are.
“The key to be in this industry is to be consistent and to have passion because if you have the fire in you, you will keep on being and create awesome stuff. Number two is hard work and discipline. If you have good discipline, you will maintain in the industry and if you are hardworking, you will reap the fruits of your labor,” continues Liyana.
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