Finding the fabulously funny side of a fearless superhero

BRITISH ACTOR HAMZA SIDDIQUE DISCUSSES HIS UNIQUE NEW SITCOM AND ROLE

by ASJAD NAZIR

ENTERTAINING British superhero sitcom NightwatchMan has been delighting audiences since it premiered on Amazon Prime Video and despite only three episodes being released, it could be a potential path-breaker that will create a new comedy genre in UK.

Talented actor Hamza Siddique plays the title role in the simple, but effective series that looks at a costumed hero when he is not fighting crime.

Eastern Eye caught up with the actor to find out more about NightwatchMan and his Wonder Woman experience.

What led towards the creation of the NighwatchMan series?

NightwatchMan is the creation of Alasdair Mackay – a writer-director whom I worked with in the past on an award-winning short film called Glow.

How did you get involved?

I went through an auditioning process, initially, for the role of a different character. After I ended the audition, a producer of the show grabbed me as I was leaving the building and asked me if I’d audition for a different role, the lead character.

Tell us about the series?

The series is a fun, playful take on a modern-day superhero. It follows the lead character Ray Summers (NightwatchMan) and explores a number of trivial issues, which one might have overlooked when imagining themselves as a superhero. Things like costume upgrades, feeling burdened by the obligation to help and protect society, and attempting to have normal relationships.

What was the experience like of being part of this series?

Honestly, the whole shoot was us just having a good laugh on and off set. There was a good energy throughout.

What is your own favourite moment from the series NighwatchMan?

My favourite moment from the series would have to be all of the super speed scenes. My little nieces and nephew think I have superpowers, so my cool uncle level just went up a bit. Interestingly, they were a nightmare to film as I actually had to do it all in super slow motion prior to the effects.

What has the response been like to the series?

People seem to be enjoying it. I’ve had quite a few messages from friends and the general audience suggesting the fact it reminds them of a more old school kind of humour.

NightwatchMan

Will there be more NightwatchMan adventures?

I believe there was a total of seven or eight seasons written actually. I guess we’ll have to see what comes of it in the future, reaction depending.

Who is your own favourite superhero?

It’s a boring answer I know, but it would have to be Superman. There’s something about the virtuous integrity he held, which appealed to me. More recently I’ve been watching an anime called My Hero Academia – there is a hero in that called Todoroki. So, one of those I reckon.

You also appeared in Wonder Woman 1984 recently. What was the experience of being part of that like?

Wonder Woman was an absolute joy to be a part of. It was my first time at the Warner Studios, which provided me many opportunities to put my fanboy glasses on in awe of my surroundings. (Director) Patty Jenkins made me feel super comfortable as did all the staff. Believe it or not, I was on location for several days and only made a tiny cameo in the movie. It shows just how much is actually filmed for these blockbusters, and how little is used by the end. I can finally say I’ve been in a movie that Hans Zimmer scored now, though, so a win all around!

Why should we all tune into Nightwatchman?

It’s been a tough time for everyone this past year and a half.

It’s an easy-to-watch comedy with an Asian superhero that rocks a moustache. Not sure it’s rocked at all actually!