Steven Ma as red wine, fresh milk

Posted 13 October 2007 - 08:00 AM

忽然一周－红酒鲜奶马浚伟

2006-03-31  TVB明星联盟

Summarized intro: Showbiz, like red wine, is all about place of cultivation, year of production, and taste. Likewise, after 13 years of showbiz immersion, Steven has the goods to become a bottle of good wine. But then again, maybe he is just a glass of bland fresh milk?

Rather be taken advantage of than to take advantage 「 寧 人 負 我 ， 我 莫 負 人 」 。

Safeguards’ rating was a triumph; however, Steven, the person, attracts more news attention than his alter ego, the Big 4th Boss; participation in a charity show, somehow became a sexual indecency scandal; vacation in Taiwan with girlfriend, somehow became Steven got ‘straightened’ by a superwoman innuendo; to top it all off, his past love relationships are once again dredged up and spun repeatedly through the gossip mill. Some female entertainers might have had welcomed the frequent tabloids' headlines and cover pages, but as a man, Steven must have felt the strain under such unrelenting negativity.

Hu: Do you feel you're like a magnet to controversy?

S: Maybe I handle stuff differently from other artistes. When faced with bad press, I seldom respond. Therefore, people think I’m an easy target, and will try to get more flesh out of me next time. As for the recent news, I really don’t know what to say. The captions are so nauseating. (ref: pervert charge - salty pork hands; see pix link) Admittedly, that picture is indeed suggestive. But people got to realize, what artiste would do such a thing in a show that was aired live before millions of viewers. The tabloids want to sensationalize that incident; there’s nothing I can do. I admit my dancing technique is weak, the rehearsal was brief, only a few hours or so. Luckily, I had a tight grip on her and didn’t drop her at the end of the dance; else, the papers would have had a field day with this caption, "After indecent groping, Steven kills to prevent victim’s accusations."

Hu: How do you deal with such negativity?

S: In the past, I brooded; tried finding solace in liquor, also tried locking myself in a room, crying. Over time, I came to believe so long heaven and earth know of my innocence, my conscience is clear. The present day viewers are pretty clear-eyed; they won’t continue to misunderstand me forever. Instead of wasting time refuting, why not expend that energy into doing good works so that people, within their limited leisure time, can get to know me better. The tabloids may denigrate me to worth less than a penny; the important thing is, that I’m not.

H: Such high-road attitude. Won’t that corrode? (reputation)

S: Used to think so. But, does silence really induce corrosion, not necessarily. If I explain every detail, maybe some people might say, "Oh, Steven really had nothing to do with it." But then again, others would sure to retort, "Steven is so cheap to bad mouth people like that." Won the argument, but lost on conduct; it’s all so pointless. My father once said: "Rather I being taken advantage of than to take advantage." Every rebuttal will hurt people. I dare to say this, that I can hold my head up high in front of everybody.

H: The homosexual accusation, was that the most damaging rumor?

S: As of today, there is no one such rumor that can truly hurt me. Frankie (his ex-manager) was my mentor. When I first entered the industry, he signed me up for 7 years, which was later extended to 3 more years. During this period, he developed and took care of me. He is a very attentive man, maybe that’s how the misconception started. To me, he was a very good manager. There’s no reason to end our contract just because of the rumors. Whatever rumors about me will not influence me. So long, I take responsibility for my work, who I’m with is of no concern to anybody.

Every time, Steven dances, things happened. In 2002, after his Latin dance with Sonija Kwok in Miss Hong Kong Pageant final, rumors spread of their dating, and Steven was fingered as the culprit who spilled the beans on their 3 months dating. The lady accused him of self-promotion. Recently, he was accused of indecent touching on Rain Li’s bottom during their dance together. Steven laughs, "I’m not scared to dance. Next time, I will partner Chu Mi Mi, nothing would happen then."

I’m Truly Lucky

Steven is obstinate. Rumor has it that he has a millionaire girlfriend: Shi Hui Ling. But he has made up his mind not to talk about it, and that's that. Steven has been in showbiz for 13 years. He is 35 years old this year, so naturally he has contemplated much on his career path and future. Two years ago, when his contract with Frankie ended, he decided to strike out on his own. Last year, he formally signed a contract with TVB in June. For sure, a big tree can provide better shade. (meaning a big company can provide more opportunities.)

Hu: So in the end, back to TVB?

S: Actually, TVB and I have always had a contract. It’s just that the contract then was more flexible; it allowed leeway of outside work and endorsements. When my contract with Frankie ended, I became a free agent. Honestly, money wise, it was really very lucrative. Also, the ability to completely control one’s success or failure was very self-satisfying. But, freelancing can also create dire predicaments.

Once, while filming in Meizhou, one night we went to a local disco for an location filming for a scene. When we got there, suddenly there were people holding up banners; somehow it had become my concert. Even selling the admission ticket for 120+ yuan each. Turned out the film producer did not pay rental to the disco management; he tricked the owner into thinking that I would perform on stage to cover the rent; thus, I became the sacrificial lamb. I'm stubborn; I absolutely refused; the people wanted to beat me up. I said, "Go ahead, beat me to death here!"

How did it end? I called up Li Ru En’s husband (Ceng Zhi Ming) for help. His factory was in Meizhou. He sent in his factory foreman and called in the public security (police). So for the rest of the filming in Meizhou, I had a police escort. There’re things that artistes cannot easily take of. I didn’t want to deal with the mountain folks, and it just happened at that time, TVB sought me out. I thought the time was right to sign on.I will now concentrate on filming. My most fervent wish is to perform on stage, no matter how small the role may be, I’m willing. (translator’s add- on: Steven got his wish. He will perform the male lead in 王子复仇记, a Chinese version Hamlet, on stage in Hong Kong Cultural center from Nov 22-25th. Rehearsals have started since Sept 11. His character will recite poetry, sing and swordplay in the show. )

Hu: What is the most important thing you’ve learned from your years of outside ventures?

S: That I am truly insignificant. In China filming industry, even a minor actor posses great acting skills. He can effortlessly do 8 back springs in a row, then somersault 360 degrees mid-air to land gracefully onto his feet. If it’s me, after 3 springs, I would need an understudy. Just in Beijing alone, there are some 200,000 professional thespians. For each role, there are over 2,000 candidates fighting over it. In the past, I took my male lead for granted, but after my eye-opening experience outside, I now know how very lucky I am. Before, I took criticisms hard. A classic example was in Healing Hands 1. Zhen Jie, (TVB upper management) always complained that I would not open my mouth wide to speak the lines. My upper lip would not move. I thought to myself, when I was young, my two upper front teeth were chipped; a deep inverted v separated them. It was only when I was 20 years old that I had them fixed. So all those years, I learned to speak without moving my upper lip. But now I know, understanding and explanations are of no use. The viewers only see the performance; they are not interested in knowing why. Don’t expect people to understand you. If you performed poorly, naturally there’ll be others to replace you. (H: Steven has since corrected that habit of not moving his upper lip while talking.)

Amending a Regret.

Besides acting, Steven’s career also includes book publishing. He grew up in Sham Shui Po-Bak Tin. From young, he was used to seeing discarded used syringes on the back staircase in their building. In the back alleys, the most common sight was the presence of hooligans and prostitutes. His father, a bus driver, was the sole breadwinner in a family of seven. His mother was a long-time nose cancer patient who died a few years back. The materials of his published books drew heavily on his childhood background, which include: suicide, the family of a cancer patient and problem teenagers. Steven has never concealed his humble origin. Maybe to overcome self-inferiority is to face it head on.

Hu: Why book publishing?

S: First, it’s purely sentiment. My 1st and 2nd jobs after graduation were in sales in Longman and Ling Ji publishing companies, respectively. Second, in the past, I was often looked down by people, so I wanted to prove my ability. I still remember that time not long after I entered the industry, a friend sent me home. At first, he thought I lived in Kowloon Tong, but when he found out that I lived in Sham Shui Po, he immediately locked all his car doors. He looked disgusted. I thought to myself, "Was that necessary?" Even though Sham Shui Po may be a slum, it’s not representative of its people. I’ve never studied in a university; my academic education is only Form 5 standard, so being a publisher is a sort of psychological compensation.

H: Aren’t you worried that people would think you’re seeking approbation and fame?

S: Only 2000 odd books are published per run. It’s a breakeven, can’t even make profits. What fame is there to laud? What compliments are there to fish? How people see me, I don’t care.

H: Do you feel that you don’t belong to this time period?

S: Yes, showbiz really doesn’t suit me. The competition is too fierce. But I’ve never participated in it. My personality is similar to Cao Zhi; won’t compete or exploit, always being bullied. I think if I were born in late Qing dynasty, I would be most happy. I love to read history books. The ending periods of the Qing dynasty were very turbulent. The citizens could put themselves out for their country, spilling hot-red blood. If I were in that generation, I’m certain I would be part of the revolution. But I don’t think I would be as radical as the 6 martyrs, or as self-sacrificial as Qiu Jin. I think I would be more like Luxun kind; I would use words and films/stage shows to resist the Japanese.

A Qing Model

Today, seems like I’ve just taken a class on China’s recent history and on Chinese thoughts. Steven loves to read Late Qing dynasty history , and also books by philosopher Tang Jun Yi, especially his 人 生 之 体 验.If not for the fact that I was solidly stuck in Lan Gui Fan Bar, I would have been deluded by Steven’s Qing appearance, thinking myself transported back to the early 20th century. Teacher Tang (Jun Yi) once said: the world mystifyingly doles out random praises and also mystifyingly metes out random hurt. I can relate to that; the entertainment circle is where most of this randomness is fabricated.

Interview credit to:忽然一周-Huran-2006-03-31 
secondary source: steven ma warm house
related radio interview excerpt on meizhou extortion 

Steven growing up in Ba-Tin was used to the sight of druggies and muggers in his neighborhood. But he was a bespectacled, refined student, himself. 马浚伟成长於白田 ，见惯屋 吸毒、斩人等现象，但他是一名戴金丝眼镜的斯文学生。

Quiet Time; Action Time.

Quiet Time; Action Time.
For the past 2 years, be it his Sheung Chi in Safeguards, or Cheung Shung Man in The Land of Wealth, even that of Ching Ka Tsun in Steps, there has been a noticeable and decidedly departure of Mazai’s acting style and character roles from his earlier series such as his “Ah Joe”, or “Cao Ji” in Where the Legend Begins. His previously delicate, refined scholarly looks now have an added look of masculinity; and his actions, more decisive. As such, his transformation elicits this impulse to get to know this new Mazai through a new eye.

There’s this Confucian saying, 三十而立(a man to be well-established by age 30). By that age, most men have gone through an inevitable transformation: becoming more mature, more charismatic, and more ambitious.

Steven admits, “These past 2 yeas, I did change a lot. It’s like suddenly I discovered many new interests and took up various hobbies. Like earlier on, I fell in love with photography. Because a snapshot can tell a story. People at different age level will accordingly see and experience life differently. If say, people find their own identities before age 30; then after age 30, they strive to be their true selves– to live their lives according to their newly acquired perspective, and to be true to themselves. Now, I realize that life is not just for fulfilling other people’s expectations, but more so, for seeking out one’s own desired lifestyle. Just like nowadays, despite their kids’ protests, many parents pressured their kids to learn new stuff, thereby, suffocating them and constricting their lifestyle. This can induce burnout, even depression to their kids.”

Steven Ma – An Ocean Concealed in a Water Droplet

166期《电视剧》马浚伟滴水藏海 sep 2007
Steven Ma – An Ocean Concealed in a Water Droplet.- (An excerpt of the original interview)
166 edition TV Series sep 2007
Translated: Tamaya

Before my interview with Steven, I did not have much of an impression of him. Maybe it is because of his consistently righteous screen image that contributed to my “犯贱” (fan jian), a faddish term meaning that people tend to remember the flawed conversely overlooking the almost flawless. But to be near flawless is not his fault, not on screen, and definitely not in real life.

I can’t say what kind of man Steven is, what I can say is that, at least during our hour’s long interview, I could not find faults on him. In the Steps’ press conference, he kept his smiles, and was a thoughtful and courteous (tn:Mandarin) interpreter for his co-stars. He was neither low-key nor attention grabbing, sharing the limelight equally with his co-stars. Despite his infrequent visits to China, he was nevertheless a big attraction whenever he appeared, and wherever he went.

Because of his affability, our interview was very relaxed; it’s more like time spent getting to know a person than filling up blank papers with words. Although the jotted words might seem incoherent but actually whatever questions I’d wanted to ask he had already talked about – Just like a droplet of water will reflect the nature of the ocean. His voice is also very pleasing to the ears. He was very courteous throughout the interview, in every sense, an exceptional man.

TVseries: You are very interested in photography?

S: Yes, it’s been a year now. Almost half an expert now. I learnt it from friends. I have 2 cameras, so I can take pictures continuously, which is good.


T: Do you have any favorite shots?

S: Yes, but they’re mostly of people. Sometimes taken outdoor, and sometimes indoor. I don’t like to use studio lighting. Prefer natural light. Because the beautiful looks taken under studio lights are not as natural. I like color contrasts in the pictures. Every body has his/her beautiful angles, but not many people realize that. If the pictures are taken with studio lighting, then anybody can look pretty. But if there is no special lighting, no matter what the model does, if I were to take the pictures, I will sure to come out with the most beautiful ones. I’ve taken a lot of these pretty pictures, mostly of the females. Because the females’ expressions are easier to capture. When they looked at their pictures, they all said they didn’t know they could look so pretty. I was happy to hear that. (smile)

Actually, I wish I’ve time to travel, to shoot some scenery pictures; simultaneously shooting and documenting the scenery pictures as I travel along. I’m doing the preparation now. Maybe next year, I will write a prose journal. Still need some 40,000 words. So far, have only written 10,000 words. My company will publish it.

TV: I remember you saying your dream is to open a publishing company.

S: Did that already. Been opened for many years now. Only a side interest – help people to publish books. Next year, I, myself, will publish a prose journal. Also intent to publish a pictorial book. I’ll annotate the pictures with my feelings at that time, and narrate the stories behind them.

TV: What’s the name of your company?

S: 出色堂 (True Star Hong Kong) Actually, the name’s been changed several times, (smile) in the end, settled on this. There’s no special meaning behind it. Most thespians hope to just do their best in their acting or singing performances, other than that, they don’t necessarily want to be the best in anything else. It’s even better if there’s no need to communicate. But I don’t think that is possible. Besides, I think an interview will enable the public to get to know you better. It can be an advantage. Of course, it all depends on the thespians’ personality. Some people are naturally introvert or maybe just can’t express themselves well. They may think giving an interview is very tiring. Of course, sometimes, I feel tired too, like when the interviews are too rushed or too tightly scheduled, or when talking non stop. But..

TV: So, just have to bear it?

S: No, no. I don’t see it that way. In fact, it got me into the habit of seeking the 'fun' in it. Everybody has his/her own idiosyncrasy. You may be tired giving an interview, but the person interviewing you is also tired. (smile) They’re all tired. The person who finds the 'fun' during this interview will come out on top.. and happy, to boot. If you can’t find the fun in the interviews, and always go about them with a long face, then how miserable is that?

TV: You entered showbiz as a singer, and did quite well too. But when your acting career took off, your singing career got sidetracked. Is it because you had truly fallen in love with acting or because you had to give in to reality?

S: I truly like it. Truly. Actually, I have never put too much focus on singing. Acting is my main focus. To me, acting is my 2nd life, while singing is just an interest of mine. If both of them could be equally successful then, of course, that would be the best. But if I had to weigh their importance, I would choose acting, for sure.

TV: On a website, there was this question, “What is your favorite Steven’s character role?” Among the top are: “Where the Legend Begins”, followed by “Better Halves”. What about yourself?

S: Actually, Cao Zhi is one of my favorite characters. That was the first time I realized that my moods could be so intensely affected by a character role. Cao Zhi is a tragic figure. I was depressed everyday I did the shooting, because every person close to me tormented me. My brother even betrayed me. Ah, it was depressing, because the script was so tragic, but I was truly into it. The other is Shang Zhi in Safe Guards. I like that character, too.

TV: Did it occur to you that it would become a hit?

S: When we did the filming we all felt that it was a good script. But it was a small production. We all thought that such a small production would not stir up much interest. But it did become a hit. It’s all due to its good script. Also, the whole cast including Wayne, Gwok Fung, Kara Hui, they all brought their characters alive. However, if the script wasn’t there, then there’s nothing. Even if the actors were gods, but the script is bad and has no pull, then no matter how they (tn: actors) acted and strove to overcome its failings, their efforts wouldn’t do much. Conversely, if the script is good, and with the actors just doing their jobs (tn: without extraordinary effort), it (series) would still turn out fine. However, if the script was good plus the cast put in above-average efforts then it (series) would be all that more extraordinary. But good scripts are hard to come by.

TV: You’ve been in many shows, most of them as protagonist. But in the past, many TVB male leads have acted as antagonists leaving deep impression to the viewers. Have you thought about taking the role of an antagonist?

S: I often requested the company to cast me as a villain. But…. There are different types of villains. Some people seem to be born evil. (smile) This kind is pointless. I want to portray a person with a story. There must be reasons behind his turning evil, unless he’s psychotic. Actually, I would like to take on the role of a psychotic killer, or something similar; like he would randomly kill anyone he sees but stops when he sees a child. The kind of character that will arouse people’s curiosity as to his motive. Actually, it is always been this way: even the most evil person has his/her good side, likewise, a good person has his/her dark side. Anyway, I hope I’ll have an opportunity to take up different roles.

Today’s viewers have become smarter. They know how to separate a character in a series from its actor in real life. Like Susanna Kwan from the recent “The Heart of Greed”- she was outstanding and is now very popular. But she is a villain in that series. Did the viewers hate her - no, because that is only acting. If your portrayal of a villain is not evil enough, then that is not good. If your villain is diabolical, then you don’t have to worry, just let down your guards and go all the way. With the same token, there are also different types of protagonists.

TV: Which of the relationship in all your series left the deepest impression in you?

S: It’s still “Where the Legend Begins” – Cao Zhi and Yan Fu’s relationship. Ada’s portrayal was simply brilliant! In the story, their kind of star-crossed love of two people loving each other but can’t, obstructed as it is by society, family and tradition. Their relationship is halted, but still they love each other. Their hearts, transcending space, are intertwined. There’s a distance between them, but they are connected in spirit. This is very tragic, very tragic but also very moving. And also very real. Actually in our present societies, there still exists such love.

TV: Is it because of its imperfect, tragic love that makes it so memorable to you?

S: Right. People are like that. The more helpless, the more people will savor the “helplessness’. In fact, sometimes when love comes too easily, it loses its appeal. This is what people called, ““犯贱” fan jian” (laugh uproariously) Wants to have a good cry, to experience the heartbreak. When everything comes too easily, something is missing. People will only know pain when fallen, so that next time they will be more careful. If a person has never experienced it or fallen, he/she will regret it when he/she grows old. Life shouldn’t be too perfect.

Beautiful blow-up pictures in baidu fansite

Related pictures in fansite:温馨马仔小屋

Steven Ma as ambassador for central and western district

vid source: youtube

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Credit news and weibo translations below to Hyn5  October 30, 2010

Steven Ma Wins Third Prize in Lottery on His Birthday
Steven Ma attended the 10th Central and Western Festival event as an ambassador. Steven's nose allergies were acting up, so he took the risk of singing off-key and sang [during the event]. He said, "I won the third prize in a lottery on my birthday. I thought it was over a million dollars, but there were 110 winners, so I only won $30,000. The lottery ticket was a birthday gift from my assistant, so I will give him half. (How will you be spending it?) Treat friends out to dinner. (There were reports saying that you told Ngo Ka Nin to 'go to hell'.) Ka Nin has already called me and said that he didn't say it [was me]. He felt that it made me upset, and he felt sorry. He only said that a veteran's words have hurt him. I need to explain because I want to prove my innocence. I am a guy, so I will not say 'go to hell'. Also, I just collaborated with Ka Nin last year. We have never collaborated before. The matter is now being handled by my lawyer!"

*收皮 = an insulting way of expressing contempt for someone, telling them to leave

******************************************************
Hyn5's commentary
"Steven and Ka Nin have already cleared things up through Weibo."

**********************************************

weibo 2010-10-30 18:09
Steven Ma: "I received a call from Ka Nin this afternoon. He apologized to me because a certain article framed him saying that Ka Nin said that I once insulted him, and told him to XX. Ka Nin expressed to me that he never said that that person was me. It was someone he met ten years ago. Ka Nin said that he is very unhappy that someone had made this up, and he hopes that I don't misunderstand! I want to say that I, too, cannot accept this frame-upon-frame behaviour. I will let my lawyer deal with this matter! Ka Nin, take care of your injury. Don't worry!"

Ngo Ka Nin: "Ma Jai, I am really sorry. The reports have affected you. I would like to apologize to you here. Sorry, Ma Jai".

Steven Ma: "Silly boy, you have already clearly explained it this afternoon. They framed you for framing me. I'd be an idiot to believe it! Remember what I told you. You must handle your eye with care. If you see many flashes, you must go to the hospital immediately. It can be very dangerous! Take care of your injury, Spare Rib Boy!"

Ngo Ka Nin: "Understood".

read my comments on this matter on hyn5
read the rest of the weibo exchanges between Steven and Pierre
*******************************************************

TN: Lots of candid photos taken by HK fans.  Photos are not transferable so mosey over to hksteven yahoo fanblog  to see beautiful pictures and to show support to domain owner.

Steven Ma with Fanny Li

Fanny Li: Truly enjoy interviewing Steven because he is very amiable.  Also he is my brother's former schoolmate, also my school senior!  Every time I see him there’s this warm feeling of familiarity. Thank you for that time when we were in the same series, you taught me how to “wan sik” (earn a living), and enabled me to have more scenes.  Also during GW filming production, I personally observed your concern and care towards every temporary actor (extras) .  I will bear that in mind!! I will continue to work hard! Happy belated birthday wish for your rapid ‘rise’.  Smooth sailing everyday.

李漫芬：@馬浚偉, 真的很喜歡訪馬浚偉, 因他永遠都是平易近人, 而且他是我哥哥的同學, 我的學兄! 每次見到他都很親切! 謝謝您, 曾經一起拍劇時, 您教我"搵食", 又給我出多一點鏡, 又於拍蒲松齡時, 我親身看到您對每位臨時演員的關懷及照顧, 心中銘記!!我會繼續努力的!補祝您生日快"上", 每天如意! Fanny上

related material pix SM - switch-on ceremony Central & Western district;
Weibo: Pierre Ngo apologizes to SM

Weibo:Pierre apologizes to Steven on weibo

Steven has said (in Yahoo blog) that he can overlook many fake news on him but he will not tolerate slanders on his character.

10/30 18:09 This afternoon received Ka Nin's (Pierre) phone call, he apologized to me for a certain reporter framing him (Pierre) saying that I once verbally humiliated him (Pierre), even telling him (Pierre) to xx. Ka Nin expressed to me that he had never said that person was me, it was someone he knew 10 years ago. Ka Nin said he was very unhappy; someone fabricated it; he does not want me to misunderstand! What I want to say is that I will not tolerate this kind of frame upon frame behavior.  I will let my lawyer deal with this matter! Ka Nin, take care of your injury, don't worry!

18:53 Maggie cheung ho yee: I one hundred percent,10 thousand percent won't believe!  The Ma Zai that '2nd Miss' (fans’ nickname for Maggie) knows is not the kind that would verbally humiliate anybody.  Both you and Kan Nin (Pierre) don’t be unhappy because of that fabricated news report.  Recently No Regret is just too hot!!!

19:00 Steven: Thank you, Bak Hap! (Maggie’s name in Better Halves) Ai…forget it. News!  How are you? When can you eat out with Fuk Tao?

19:25 Maggie: Negative energy is not suited to remain in the body for too long ah.  How can one single news report kill your years of cultivation?  (of character)

19:31 Maggie: Ok!!!  Ask Miss Koi along (Joyce) too, the more the merrier ya.

(sophia: I too have won the 6-digit lottery)

19:36 Maggie:  @--Sophia: Winning the 6-digit lottery is just an excuse to ask me out to eat, understand?

19:42 Steven: That report touched on character issue, so will let the lawyer handle.  But whether will sue or not will take lawyer’s advice! But this time, truly angry!

19:44 Steven: No, I honestly did win the 3rd prize but over hundred ticket holders did too!

20:41 Pierre KaNin: Ma Zai, truly sorry for the impact of the report on you.  I hereby apologize to you.  Sorry, Ma Zai

21:01 Steven: Silly, you've already explained this afternoon.  Other people wronged you to wrong me.  If I believe that then I'm a fool! Remember what I said, the eyes must be attended to with great care.  When have numerous flashes, must go to the hospital immediately, can be critical, understand?  Take care of the injury ya! Spare Ribs Boy!

21:05 Pierre: Understand

21:20 I will not stand by to see any artiste being unjustly wronged. Ka Nin is very hardworking, I can see. As for uploading songs onto tvb.com, I will inquire. (respond to fans' questions)

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Related news:  News + video: SM clarifies the rumor

2010 Steven's fans birthday presents

^re: AF 837; AF 839
Ok not going to mince words.
I truly can't understand the mentality of some Steven fans. So overly demanding and presumptuous! Apparently, Steven's presents from other fans were sent to these 2 HK fans (Xfan & Zfan) who would somehow get them to Steven. A few days ago, they and other fans bombarded (no exaggeration, literally bombarded) Steven weibo with their messages asking him how to send the presents to him.

Steven: 10/24 18:45 I've received your good intentions! Don't worry about it!

But fans were not happy with his response because they really wanted him to have the presents. Ok, I can understand their feelings. But imo they did not respect Steven's wishes. Reading the messages, this particular 18 -19 year old fan (X fan) seems overly melodramatic in her posting her disappointment. She has met Steven several times as has her mother during his promotions.

Anyway, seeing her messages, Steven said: 10/24 19:39 Remember, don't make yourself out to be so tragic and then push the responsibility onto other people! Your mother has been taking care of you, worrying over you and very concern about you! What you need to do today is to study hard and take care of yourself. You don't need others to prove your personal worth. Walk your own path. Be a useful person. That is the conduct to repay your mother. Remember this! 

Xfan said she understand and will remember. But guess she did not understand Steven's message well enough because she and the fans continued to ask Steven on how to get them at a certain time.

Steven posted Paul Anka's My Way: 10/25 3:06 When Paul Anka sang, he truly sang a song.. very moving. Fans wondered if it means for them to respect Steven's way of doing things and hold on to the presents until it is more convenient for him to receive the presents.

Obviously to me, Steven was telling them in the nicest possible way to let it be for now. In fact, a year or so ago, he had already told fans visiting him at his public events to not spend money buying presents for him. Before then they had been giving him stuff animals and flowers and other stuff (quite expensive too some of them. Can't understand why fans would give a grown man stuff animals. lol!). Steven put a stop to that in the nicest possible way. He told them if must give him gifts then write him letters, essays or analyses on his performances or series. He promised to them all even if he did not respond to them in kind. He said many were still students so they had to appreciate just how hard their parents work for their money. So please, no more purchased gifts him. He appreciates their good intentions. 你的好意我心領了. The fans wrote of these in their essays posted in Steven's Warm House fansite.

Well, without words from Steven, Xfan and Zfan laden with gifts decided anyway to stake out tvbcity in hopes of catching Steven at work filming Imperial Bodyguards on 26th at around 7 pm (?) Of course, with the news above we know now that Steven never went to tvbcity. But anyway, from reading the weibo, these duo waited until 11 pm.(?) All the time together with other fans they left messages on Steven weibo. Asking, pleading, demanding , whatever, for him to spare them 10 minutes. That they were hungry and cold and tired, so would Steven please come see them? And the online fans added their own drama to the weibo with their pleadings, and now you're telling me some even took to spreading the drama onto other artistes' weibo. Haiz! For those who can read Chinese it's all there on the weibo.

Finally, Steven got on his weibo, and I guess from his posting he was not a happy camper to belatedly find out that these two girls of their own accord decided to wait for him outside tvbcity for various reasons, most important being their own safety waiting outside for him in such a dark and cold night. And of course that feeling of being put in a place of not his doing. Even friends don't drop in unexpectedly without calling first and then getting unreasonably upset at finding you not home. And then leaving messages all over your weibo of their displeasure.

Steven said: Who said I was at tvb. Also things can't and should not be too over!! Anyway, thank you everybody for your birthday well wishes.

This is not the first time Steven telling his fans not to be too overly demanding with their requests. And this is not the first time Xfan dropped in at his workplace unexpectedly with presents. And not the first time she had waited so long for him at a place (airport last time) without knowing his actual schedule and then becoming upset (weibo) when she did not get to see him. He has told them several times not to see him as an idol and put him on a pedestal. In the past, I think, not sure, another fan kept the presents until she could pass them over to Steven's manager or supervisor at a more convenient time. She was never pushy like these weibo fans.

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In Chinese

Chinese opera makeover for his music album Dai Nui Fa

Talking of albums reminds me of Steven's dai nui fa album cover. I wish I had the foresight at the time to bookmark the interview video clip recording his makeover into an opera character for his Dai Nui Fa album cover photoshoot, now I can't find that video online anymore.  In the interview video, Steven talked about the challenges of his amazing transformation. Compare his Dai Nui Fa painted face to his painted 'harlot' face in Change of Destiny.  Big difference there!

more screencaps @ of that missing video baidu steven
banner by Juzhi @ steven's warmhouse

Aside:

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Bottom pix source

Reconciled with Astrid Chan

10/28 6:30 Once there was a friend. I thought if I treated her well, perhaps, conscious of it she would reciprocate in kind! But, because of various reasons, I hurt her, and she hurt me, too! Today, we met again and talked at length of the past.  Turn out, who owes who is actually not important at all.  Maybe the starlight of that time was brilliant, but, it does not mean tonight’s moonlight will not regain its brightness! Friend, it’s all in the heart! In the heart!  weibo 

 At first, I thought Steven meant Sonija, and I wondered why he would bring it up again -- and then there was this line, "Today, we met again and talked at length of the past. "   Today?  Didn't they reconcile during their filming of 7days?  Then I saw the pictures posted on steven-ma.org and I knew he must have meant Astrid Chan, who reportedly had had a falling out with him because of some misunderstandings years ago.  Congratulations to Steven for mending yet another friendship. 

Astrid was one of the mcs for this  2010/10/28 善心满载仁爱堂 recording.

 

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Old pix + mv still photo (right)


source
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source

News 2009 - Broke off, Now Can Talk. Steven Ma

[东周刊 第305期]留星語: 分手了　才能說　馬浚偉
translator: tamaya
reposted: Posted 07 July 2009 

Steven Ma (Ma Zai) always exerts himself to the fullest because he knows a pair of eyes are watching. This pair of eyes belonged to someone he cares deeply—his ex-lover. March, this year, he and his red wine businesswoman girlfriend of six-years, Vivian, broke off their relationship. Ma Zai loves to drink red wine; that night he drank a lot. He had invited some friends over to his house for a drink and chat. However, the usual fragrant fine wine soon turned into a glass of bitterness; every sip tinged with melancholy. He sat dully in the living room, his hand holding the very wine glass that was used numerous times in the past sipping wine with his girlfriend; in a single gulp, he downed the glass of their favorite red wine. Sadness, regrets; a sound of “gu lu” and they were all slugged down. The Ma Zai of the tough Chew Chou guy mentality thought he could take them all in. However, suddenly, his heart twinged with pain and tears slowly rolled down. “I’m tired, I’m truly tired!” Recalling that pair of distant eyes, he yearned to get back into her favor, but was powerless to do so.

~~Three Girlfriends ~~

Ma Zai is a very punctual person. If have an appointment with him for dinner or for an interview, he maybe early but never late. Today he got there half an hour early, luckily I was there already. He even came prepared with 艇仔粥 congee and cheung fun. "If I was here early then I would use the time to eat, moreover, it wouldn't affect your work. Time is of essence to everybody. Unpunctual people are being selfish.”

When he sees the photographer walking with a limp, Ma Zai suddenly whips out a bottle of Yunnan Bak Yao spray, and bending down, spray it on him. Today is the first time they met but Ma Zai is always this warmhearted.

I have known Ma Zai for quite a while now; he has not changed much. He was always willing to talk about anything but his love relationship over which he was very tight lip. Even when occasional rumors of his so-called brokeback scandal erupted, he still was unwilling to make public his love relationship. Actually all in all, he has had but three girl friends: his first love was during his school days, whose run ended naturally; the one he met latter when he first entered society lasted 3 years. She is with another person now but the two still keep in touch.

As to the recently separated Vivian, she is a sommelier who also runs a red wine business; her family is very well off. Ma Zai disclosed that they met through a mutual friend and had dated for six years. Their relationship was not a secret among friends. When Ma Zai had dinners with friends, he often brought her along, too.

He once described her thus: "She’s younger than me by one year; I’m 37 years old. But she looks young and very cute. She’s not in the entertainment business; she’s in trade.”

2006 Ma Zai and Vivian in Taiwan for vacation. Entering and leaving the hotel separately.

~~Could No Longer Stand the Inattentiveness~~
Everybody thought their relationship was stable so much so that they thought before long they could switch to addressing her as Mrs. Ma (ma tai); who knew they had already separated months earlier.

Ma Zai is a bit subdued, he says: “Yes! Broke off already; broke off already so nothing more to say about it.”

I stare at him, stunned, and did not utter a word. Ma Zai slowly softens up: "Before, I didn’t want to talk about her because I didn’t want her to be harassed by the press. Her family is in business. There was once this person who went to her father’s company demanding an interview, and caused them much inconveniences.”

What were the reasons for the break up?
Ma Zai, looking helpless, says: "The same old problems. She wanted me to spend more time with her, but I had to shoot series after series, each lasting 4 months. During this time, I didn’t even have enough time to sleep. Frankly speaking, I’m not the kind of person who can forgo sleep to be with the girlfriend. When I go to the studio, I don’t bring my cell phone along. During this time I can’t still be talking lovey-dovey, and then turn around and get into my character; I just can’t do it. When I was shooting a series, I couldn’t be with her. Dated 6 years but in actuality, probably only spent 2 years together in all.”

Like some elders say: “When a man’s aspiration is yet to be accomplished, either support him or leave him to seek out one’s own way of life.” Ma Zai’s career aspirations are still burning strong. He points out that actors’ golden period is between the ages of 35 and 45. “My passion for acting runs strong. I wish to direct next year.”

He would not give in, so could only ‘release’ girlfriend.
“She kept saying that I didn’t accompany her enough. She often traveled to Europe for business, occasionally taking trains cross country. She would always complain: “You’ve never taken a train ride with me.” I had to work, how could I accompany her? ”

Their break off happened when Ma Zai was in between series, thus intensifying the pain of separation. “So played badminton everyday lo. The best way to vent. There was this one week that I played for 7 days straight.”

On the surface Ma Zai was not tender enough, yet he says with utmost confidence: “When I fall in love with a woman most wholeheartedly without reservations, she will be very lucky indeed.” 「我死心塌地愛上一個女孩子，她是很有福氣的！」

He says he is faithful. “Two-timing. I’ve never done that. Those men with 3, 4 or 5 girlfriends, I really don’t get their kind of mindset.”



Request Ma Zai to share some pointers for the male readers on how to court a girlfriend. He laughs and says: “Giving little presents is very important. If can afford it, buy some expensive ones to better express your feelings. Every now and then, I gave presents to girlfriend; most time they did not come cheap either.”

Get in the kitchen to cook. A cozy dinner is a must for romance. Ma Zai’s culinary skill is excellent. Whenever friends gathered at his house, he always did the cooking. “Like if she loves to eat fish, then buy two and let her have the better one. She will be very happy for sure.”

Giving flowers is also a must. “For special occasions or festivals, I will give flowers. This is the basic.”

Ma Zai thinks that lovers besides passion must also have something in common, only then can their relationship lasts.

“My way of resolving problems is different from hers, our points of view are different, too. I often described her as 番書妹* and I’m the public housing grassroots, hence, both very different. But we also share a lot in common; the most basic is drinking red wine.”

Ma Zai says since becoming unattached again these past months, the initial heavy feelings have slowly ebbed. And now he feels carefree. But in an immediate turn around, he says maybe in two years’ time he can get back with Vivian again.

A man's burden (sam si 心事), truly hard to fathom.

The usual Ma Zai who is full of life philosophy talk is more like a big boy when it comes to talk of love and romance. (談情說愛)

Ma Zai says Nip Ji Yuen in Sits with a black and white personality, and without grayness resembles him.

The Perfect Love


Ma Zai’s late mother when she was alive often furrowed her brow. Every time she frowned, Ma Zai would kiss her and then would say: “Mama, in my next life, I’ll still want to be your son.” Upon hearing this, Mama’s cancer ravaged face would soften and shine with lasting brightness. Mama has passed away almost ten years now, but Ma Zai has not remodeled her bedroom, still the same mattress and the same bedroom set.

Father Ma is even more attentive, always keeping his beloved wife’s bedroom neat and tidy, free of dust. His wife battled cancer for 20 odd years, and he was with her every step of the way. Although separated by eternity, he remains faithful. He had protected her, had been tolerant of her, and had never asked anything in return for himself. This kind of love, transcending life and death, transcending the length of a mortal life, in Ma Zai’s heart, this is the most perfect kind of love.


Mother Ma was a chronic patient who battled nose cancer for 20 odd years.


Father Ma was a bus driver in his younger days. During his days off he would take Ma Zai out to play. Now he frequently plays chess with old colleagues to pass the time. Ma Zai encourages him to find a life partner.


*students whose formal schooling used English as the medium of instruction.

Note: Sad to read that Steven is still holding on to his late mother's bedroom, which indicates he is still mourning and grieving his mother's death even after all these years. Hopefully one day his healing is complete and he can finally let his mother rest in peace in his mind and in his heart.

Edited: Don't know why, but reading this article brought to mind of this image of Ji Yuen holding onto a pole, drunk as a skunk. Heartbreaking.