Chidi Mokeme, renowned for his role in ‘Shanty Town,’ recently shared intriguing insights with BBC Pidgin about his journey to embody the enigmatic character, Scar.
Mokeme’s revelations unveil a fascinating narrative of the lengths to which an actor can go to bring a character to life.
Here, we delve into the four remarkable and daring steps he took to fully immerse himself into the role.
1. He Shaved His Head:
In his quest for authenticity, Chidi Mokeme made the bold decision to part with his locks. The actor took the extraordinary step of shaving his head entirely to transform his appearance into that of Scar. The physical transformation was a crucial element in his journey to embrace the character.
2. He Did Not Take His Bath:
Beyond the physical changes, Mokeme revealed a deeper layer of his commitment to the role. He candidly admitted to forsaking his daily showers in the run-up to his scenes. This unconventional choice was deliberate, enabling him to truly feel the essence of Scar’s untidy persona and enabling him to embrace the character’s gritty and unclean demeanor.
3. He Left His Teeth Unbrushed:
In a testament to the thoroughness of his preparation, Chidi Mokeme disclosed that he endured days without brushing his teeth. This unorthodox approach allowed him to delve further into the psyche of Scar. His willingness to forego such basic hygiene habits underscores the lengths to which he was willing to go for the sake of authenticity.
4. He Smoked About 3 Packets a Day:
Perhaps the most audacious of his methods was Mokeme’s decision to take up smoking, a habit he did not partake in during his everyday life. The actor, in pursuit of Scar’s distinctive voice, began smoking three packs of cigarettes daily.
This radical measure, while far from a healthy choice, speaks volumes about the actor’s dedication to capturing the character’s unique vocal qualities.
Conclusion:
Chidi Mokeme’s relentless dedication to becoming Scar in ‘Shanty Town’ is nothing short of astounding.
Even after the show’s conclusion, he finds himself in an unexpected battle for ownership of his own identity with the character he portrayed.
This unique struggle highlights the deep connection actors often form with their roles and the profound impact those roles can have on their lives.
Mokeme’s journey offers a captivating glimpse into the world of acting, where the boundary between an actor and their character can become blurred.
What are your thoughts on Chidi Mokeme’s extreme measures in his pursuit of the perfect Scar? Share your perspective in the comments section below