Renowned poet-playwright-novelist Syed Shamsul Haq has become an actor. In an upcoming digital film directed by Shahnewaz Kakoli, the ambidextrous writer will be seen as himself. The Daily Star caught up with the litterateur recently.

"A young, enthusiastic group approached me with the idea of the film. It requires me to be who I am. The characters of the film emerge from the writer's imagination. One can also relate to them as regular characters around us. The idea seemed quite innovative and exciting to me. At least, no one has thought of anything like this in our country yet. Considering everything I gave my consent to act in the film," the writer informed.

Shooting is still on for the film, which might be called "Jalpari" or "Jaleshwari". The rest of the cast is yet to be finalised, but several scenes involving Syed Shamsul Haq have already been shot. The film is expected to be released this year.

"It was a novel experience for me. And I tried to do my best. For the film, we went to the sea; I read poems on the beach. We continued shooting well into the night. I must admit that I enjoyed the whole experience. I felt young again," said a smiling Haq.

Are there other possibilities to see this pre-eminent litterateur on the screen as an actor? The writer seemed amused: "Why not? I believe in finishing anything I start. As I've had a taste of acting, I'd probably want to continue till I'm completely satisfied. In this film, I didn't actually 'act'; I played myself. If I get opportunities to play other characters; I mean, if the script and my role seem impressive to me, I'd like to act again."

The writer is now busy with his upcoming books, which should be published at the 'Ekushey Boimela' this year. Haq is working on two novels and two collection of poems.