Eli Malawau – Netflix Actor from the Netherlands

He didn’t receive any acting education. In his younger years he did some modeling for some clothing brands what made it easier for him to stand in front of cameras.

One of the biggest challenges is being patient while the film crew is rebuilding the set over and over again.  He overcome them by talking on the set with the actors eager to learn about the acting profession.

The mirror and the script helped him to get into the character of his role.

His  advice to young actors who are just starting out and aspire to work in films is , stay close to yourself.

6. How do you view the role of social media in an actor’s career today? Has it played a significant part in your own professional journey?

Social media plays a crucial role in an actor’s career today, acting as both a platform for self-promotion and a way to connect with fans and industry professionals. It offers actors a chance to showcase their personality, engage with their audience, and build a personal brand beyond their on-screen roles. For casting directors and producers, an actor’s social media presence can even be a factor in hiring decisions.

7. Eli, you’ve worked on several Dutch films. How do you see the Dutch film industry evolving, and what excites you about its future?

The Dutch film industry is steadily growing and evolving, embracing both local stories and international collaborations. There’s a unique blend of creativity and realism in Dutch cinema, with filmmakers exploring diverse genres and experimenting with storytelling techniques. What excites him most about the future is how Dutch films are becoming more recognized globally while maintaining their distinct identity. The rise of streaming platforms and co-productions is offering Dutch filmmakers more opportunities to reach a wider audience. Additionally, there’s a noticeable shift toward inclusivity and fresh perspectives, which is vital for the industry’s growth.

There are many filmmakers, both in the Netherlands and internationally, that he would love to collaborate with. He is drawn to directors who push creative boundaries and bring fresh, unique perspectives to their work. Collaborating with someone who has a strong vision and a distinct storytelling style is always exciting and inspiring as an actor.

9. Who are some of the actors that you admire the most, both from the Netherlands and internationally?

Denzel Washington and Christian Bale at (international) level do inspire him and in the Netherlands Mandela Wee Wee , Frank Lammers and Tygo Gernandt (Netherlands) . He worked with these  Dutch actors and they inspired him a lot.

10.- Hollywood is often seen as the pinnacle of the film industry. Do you have aspirations to work in Hollywood, and if so, what kind of projects would you like to be a part of?

While Hollywood is undoubtedly a major hub of the film industry, his ambitions are more focused on working as an international actor, not limited to just one region. He is excited by the idea of being part of diverse projects across different cultures and languages. Whether it’s in Hollywood, Europe, or elsewhere, he is drawn to stories that are impactful and push creative boundaries. He would love to work on projects that span various genres be it thought-provoking dramas, compelling thrillers, or innovative indie films that resonate with audiences worldwide.

Balancing his personal life with the demands of an acting career, especially when filming on location, requires careful planning and discipline. Running his own company allows him to stay independent and have more control over my schedule, making it easier to manage both my professional and personal commitments. He prioritizes clear communication and setting boundaries, ensuring that he can maintain a healthy work-life balance. Being an entrepreneur has also taught him to be adaptable, which is crucial when balancing the unpredictability of acting with personal responsibilities.

12. Eli, what do you enjoy doing in your free time? Do you have any hobbies or activities that help you unwind?

He loves to ride with his motorcycle, workout at the gym and Q-time with his lovely girlfriend.

He would recommend to visit some Dutch cities. The Netherlands has some incredible cities to explore beyond the usual spots. Rotterdam is known for its cutting-edge architecture, vibrant art scene, and diverse culinary offerings. Maastricht, located in the south, is rich in history, with beautiful cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and a welcoming atmosphere. Tilburg has a dynamic cultural vibe with a mix of festivals, creative hubs, and an emerging food scene. Whether you’re into modern cityscapes, historic charm, or creative culture, these cities each offer a unique Dutch experience.

Cinema and tourism are often intertwined, as films can significantly influence travel desires. For example, the iconic scenes from Boyz n the Hood have made him want to visit the locations featured in the film. The way movies highlight specific settings can showcase a place’s unique character and atmosphere, inspiring viewers to explore those locations in person. This connection between film and tourism can effectively boost interest in and visitation to the places portrayed on screen.

15. Eli, have you ever been interested in exploring other roles within the film industry, such as directing or producing?

He is interested in exploring other roles within the film industry. He worked on small independent projects with fellow actors who are starting to become filmmakers. These experiences have given him valuable insights into directing and producing, and he is excited about the possibility of contributing to projects in these capacities in the future

He believes humility is one of the most important qualities an actor can possess for long-term success. Staying grounded helps maintain strong relationships with colleagues and audiences, fosters continuous growth, and ensures a genuine connection to the craft. Being humble allows an actor to stay open to learning and adapting, which is crucial in an ever-evolving industry.

17. How do you handle criticism and feedback on your performances, and what role does it play in your growth as an actor?

He handles criticism and feedback by approaching it with a strategic mindset. He listens carefully, analyze the input, and identify actionable points that can enhance hid performances. Constructive feedback is crucial for growth, as it provides insights into areas for improvement and helps refine his skills. He views criticism as a tool for development, using it to adjust his approach and continuously evolve as an actor. This proactive and open-minded approach ensures that he stays adaptable and continuously improve in his craft.

The most rewarding part of being an actor is connecting with audiences and impacting their emotions. Knowing that your work resonates with people and makes a difference is deeply fulfilling.

The future of cinema in the digital age is promising, with streaming platforms offering broader access to diverse content and global audiences. While traditional theaters remain important, digital platforms provide new opportunities for filmmakers and audiences alike, enabling greater experimentation and wider distribution. This shift can lead to a more inclusive and varied cinematic landscape, though it also challenges traditional distribution models and may impact the theater experience.

If he was not  an actor, he would likely pursue a career running a security company. He has  a talent for it and find the field both challenging and rewarding. This alternative profession aligns well with his skills and interests, offering a different but equally engaging path.

21. Eli, can you share any upcoming projects or roles that you’re particularly excited about?

He is excited to share that I’ll be taking on a small role in the upcoming youth series HEIN, set to release later this year (2024). Even though it’s a smaller part, he is looking forward to contributing to the project and seeing how it turns out.