News
Nothing much to trumpet about
The new President-Elect of the United States Donald Trump has made many cameo appearances in films and television, but the fact that he had acted in a movie co-produced by veteran Sri Lankan film-maker Chandran Rutnam only gained media attention this week, after he was elected as America’s 45th President.
The 1989 film, “Ghosts Can’t Do It” was directed by John Derek and starred Bo Derek and Anthony Quinn in the lead roles. Described as a fantasy comedy, it was filmed in several countries, including Sri Lanka. The Sri Lankan scenes were shot along the island’s southern coast, mostly in Bentota and Galle, Mr. Rutnam revealed. Mr. Trump however, did not feature in any of the scenes filmed in Sri Lanka. His scenes were shot in New York. Veteran Sri Lankan actor Henry Jayasena also had a role in the film. Though it was not a major role, it was still a more prominent one than the one played by Mr. Trump, according to Mr. Rutnam.
Donald Trump’s role in the film was a cameo where he played himself. Mr. Rutnam recalled that Mr. Trump’s scenes were shot in the board room of Trump Tower in Manhattan. The Tower, which served as Mr. Trump’s headquarters for the elections, has been the scene of vocal protests this week since his win.
Although the shoot was supposed to be over in a day, the negative got scratched and the scenes had to be re-shot the next day. Mr. Trump though, was professional and readily agreed to the re-shoot, Mr. Rutnam added.
Unfortunately, Mr. Rutnam has no behind- the -scenes photographs from that particular scene. “I really wish I did, but that was 25 years ago. Back then, we had no idea he was going to become the President one day.” he told the SundayTimes.
The cameo however, did not turn out well for Mr. Trump. He would go onto pick up a Golden Raspberry Award, or ‘Razzie’ for ‘Worst Supporting Actor’ for his role in the film.
Mr. Trump has appeared in a host of films and television series throughout his life, mostly playing himself. His most recent appearance before he launched his bid for the US Presidency was as host of the television series “Celebrity Apprentice.”
