A decade ago, the singer-actor started his career in showbiz as part of a now defunct boyband called Forteen. Izzue instantly found fame and gained fandom soon after he began appearing on prime time television. From the usual supporting gigs which eventually lead him to be casted as the main actor, Izzue was like a significant fixture in the local drama scene. Appearances in high-grossing films have made Izzue Islam one of the brightest stars in the industry to date.
Born in Kota Bharu, Kelantan, Muhammas Izzul Islam Mazlan, 31, began his acting career in 2011. His breakthrough roles in a string of films screened in 2013 bagged him the Most Promising Actor trophy at the Malaysia’s 25th Film Festival and branded Best New Hero by Anugerah Blokbuster 2. Izzue proved to everyone that he has more than just looks but a great talent to match too. As the breakout star of the year, every director and production company wanted him for the lead role.
“I’ve been very lucky to be given so many opportunities to work with the best people in the industry. It motivates me to dream bigger and achieve higher.” There’s something about Izzue that makes you feel drawn to him. He lits the room with his aura of optimism, his positivity is contagious. “Entertainment industry teaches you to be bold and brave. Without grit and determination, one might not achieve the ultimate potential. Having a good perspective on life itself will make you believe in yourself and your dreams. It makes you stand a little firmer.”
On the day of the cover shoot, Izzue Islam arrived at the studio accompanied by his wife cum manager, Awin Nurin. This loving couple is just a joy to watch as they’re partners in work and in life. “We keep things very professional and at the same time very convenient for me as my most trusted person at work also happens to be my wife!” Izzue says cheekily. Despite his attempts to just have fun, Izzue doesn’t slow down as he couldn’t help but push himself. As he would later recall during when the pandemic hits, spending too much time at home and being unproductive definitely took a toll on him.
“It felt like a really long holiday. It was nice at first but then reality hits, the whole entertainment industry was severely affected. Many lost jobs and I’m glad things are getting back to normal. Well, maybe not entirely but sooner than later. One thing for sure… the shooting schedule went haywire, some were done halfway, signed contracts got annulled. Right after the lockdown got lifted, everyone scrambled for meetings to readjust schedules and productions. Crazy times!” Izzue stresses the importance of fulfilling his obligations first and foremost.
Of course, it’s nice to hear an actor so evidently engaged with their work. Yet after reading past interviews, I do wonder how he faces the media scrutiny and obsessed fans who are always questioning his marriage life among others. Izzue may seems to be the type who is fiercely guarded about his private life, but he is surprisingly open to speaking up on some personal issues that might come as sensitive to others. “There are some things I keep to myself, that are my business. But I do understand that the media needs to be fed with news and information. This is the nature of entertainment business and I’m all game,” he slyly explains.
Something to look forward to in 2022 is Izzue Islam’s latest silver screen role. “I’m now waiting for Juang, my latest film set to hit the theatre soon. The pandemic has opened our eyes to the sacrifices made by the frontliners and this film is a symbol of appreciation to all of them.” Juang is also a very bold production boasting five directors directing more than 100 actors. It’s also reported the number of people involved working behind the scene was more than 200 film crews. “Last year was quite a roller coaster and we could all do with a little bit of good news this year. For me, a new film for a start. What next? Guess we just have to wait and see!”
