Only a few months after making waves globally in Hunger, a hit drama on Netflix that highlights class divide, Chutimon "Aokbab" Chuengcharoensukying returns in Delete, a story about a mystery mobile phone whose camera is able to delete anyone from existence. The eight-part miniseries is currently on the top 10 most-watched shows in Thailand.
Delete is produced and directed by Parkpoom Wongpoom, a filmmaker who gave us films like Shutter (2004), Alone (2007) and Homestay (2018). With a Black Mirror-like concept, Delete stars Nat Kitcharit (Fast And Feel Love) and Sarika "Fah" Sartsilpsupa (Happy Old Year) as Aim and Lilly, the ill-fated lovers who one day stumble upon a mysterious device that can make people disappear. Entangled in a dangerous affair, the two plan to use the phone as a deadly ticket to start a new life together. The series takes viewers on a journey through the intricate relationships of characters, blending sci-fi, drama, suspense and unexpected crime.
Chutimon gained international recognition for her role as Lynn in the 2017 movie Bad Genius, for which she won many awards as best actress in several film festivals in Asia. She has also had roles in many other films including Happy Old Year, One For The Road and most recently Hunger.
In Delete, Chutimon plays Orn, a photographer and Aim's insecure girlfriend who suspects her boyfriend is having an affair. Despite only playing a supporting role, she still shines and delivers a stellar performance. Life recently caught up with the 27-year-old actress to talk about her latest role in Delete, working with director Parkpoom, as well as her thoughts on being one of the most sought-after actors in the business today.
What was it like working on the set with director Parkpoom?
It was my first time working with Parkpoom and I'm glad to have had the opportunity. Honestly, he was on the list of directors I most wanted to work with. And after this, I came to know that he is detailed about his work. He is someone who gives actors the opportunity to participate in giving opinions during filming. He always listens to us when we have our opinions on the script or the characters we play. He made us feel like a team.
Who else is on your list?
There are so many [laughs]. I feel there are many Thai directors today who are creative and as skilled as professional Hollywood filmmakers. I would like to work with Nawapol Thamrongrattanarit or Banjong Pisanthanakun. It would also be nice to have the opportunity to work with Nattawut Poonpiriya again because the last time I was cast in One For The Road, it was so brief and we didn't have time to talk much on set.
Delete is now on Netflix. Did you have time to watch any episodes yet, and what did you think about the show?
I've already watched the entire show. Actually, I watched the first episode when we premiered Delete in the cinema. It was kind of weird looking at yourself on screen [laughs]. But I did enjoy the show. I liked the high concept of this series. The cinematography is beautiful and the editing techniques are very good. I am proud to be a part of this project.
Can you talk about the character you played in the series?
I had to learn everything about Orn's character and her background. I think Orn is like glass and ready to break. She lost her father when she was little and her mother has Alzheimer's, so she doesn't even remember Orn. So Aim is the only person she devoted all her love to and even after learning the truth about his actions, she is willing to forgive, because Orn fears being left alone.
Everybody seems to want to work with you and you have gotten to play many interesting and unique characters over the years. Do you have any criteria for choosing the roles that have been offered?
Of course. Before agreeing to any role, I consult with my manager and team members whether the script and characters are interesting enough. And I have to go to an audition each time to see how well I fit with that role. I've been rejected after auditions too, but I'm not gonna tell you what movie it was [laughs].
What do you personally like about acting and do you have any goal you want to accomplish as an actor?
I think I'm a lucky person. Many people may have thought that I was probably an aspiring actor. But actually, everything about me being an actress just happened by chance. I never thought of becoming an actor. My major was actually sci-math in school because I originally dreamed of being a doctor like others in my family. After that, I suddenly had the opportunity to try my hand at modelling, commercials or starring in music videos. And I was finally invited to audition for a role in Bad Genius, and I got the part. So it was more like a lucky coincidence.
