I love korean movie

Actress Go A-ra Hopes to Inspire Viewers to Chase Dreams

2012-01-28T18:56:00.000-08:00

After playing the role of a pole vaulter in "Pacemaker," which opened in theaters recently, Go A-ra appears as the teen breadwinner of a dysfunctional American family in the upcoming movie "Papa," set to open on Feb. 2.

In the film, the 22-year-old plays a girl who overcomes conflicts with her stepfather in order to protect the family of orphaned children from different ethnic backgrounds, before eventually breaking into show business.

"I did heavy workouts and learned English, singing, dancing and even guitar while I was filming these two movies," Go said. "I started learning English when I was five, which helped a lot."

Even though it has been 10 years since Go made her debut, most people still remember her as the main character in the KBS teen drama "Sharp." She landed that role right after winning an audition with the talent management agency SM Entertainment.

"If I didn't take the audition for the talent agency when I was in junior high school, I would probably be preparing to become a news presenter," she said.

"I started dreaming about being an anchor since I watched the TV soap 'All About Eve,' which dealt with the world of news reporting."

She said she became more proactive at school after watching the soap, pushing herself to excel not only in her studies, but also in extracurricular activities.

"It means a lot to me to accurately portray characters as an actress," Go said. "I would like to inspire viewers so they become interested in new worlds, and start to have dreams and set goals just like I did."

source: Chosun Ilbo

Always [ Korean Movie 2011]

2012-01-22T23:31:00.000-08:00

Genre : Melodrama, Romance
Starring : So Ji-Sub, Han Hyo-Joo
Release date : October 20, 2011
Runtime :108 min.
Directed by: Song Il-Gon

Synopsis:

Chul-min (So Ji-Sub) leads a hard life delivering the water by day and working at the parking lot by night. His life seems nothing but ordinary, however, he hides his dark past that he used to hit the people for living. One day a strange blind woman called Jung-hwa (Han Hyo-Joo) visits him at the parking lot, who changes his life completely. Looking at cheerful and bright Jung-hwa, Chul-min slowly opens his mind. Jung-hwa also lets him enter her lonely world. To lead a better life with the new love, Chul-min re-starts boxing dreaming of the future as a MMA fighter. But always the good time ends soon. As Chul-min finds out that Jung-hwa might lose her eyesight forever if she doesn’t receive the transplant operation soon and he himself is responsible for the accident which took Jung-hwa’s eyesight and her parents away five years ago, he falls into despair. Burdened with the complex feelings mixed with guilt towards Jung-hwa and affection to her, Chul-min decides to play in the gambling fight abroad, which is the chance to collect the huge amount of money at once. He leaves her all at once without a trace or any note.
[source: http://www.koreanfilm.or.kr]

Trailer:

Gallery:

The Cat [ Korean Movie 2011]

2012-01-05T02:45:00.000-08:00

Genre : Horror
Starring : Park Min-young, Kim Dong-wook, Kim Ye-ron
Release date : July 7, 2011
Runtime :106 min.
Directed by: Byun Seung-Wook

Synopsis:

So-yeon is an animal groomer who works in a pet shop. One day, she gets stuck with a Persian cat named Silky when its owner suddenly dies. From then on, So-yeon is constantly haunted by a bobbed hair girl with green cat-like eyes who turns her life turns into turmoil. So-yeon desperately seeks help from the people around, but no one listens to her. The presence of the girl and the sound of Silky’s cries start to choke in around her life more and more. Not only that, people around So-yeon gets killed one by one. Soon, So-yeon comes face to face with the bobbed hair girl at the scene of a horrific death.

So-yeon gets rid of Silky hoping her troubles will come to an end, but Silky keeps coming back to her like a boomerang. Terrified she could be the next to die, So-yeon sets out to find out the identity of the girl with the help her dead friend’s ex-boyfriend, Jun-seok, who is a cop. Later, So-yeon finds out the truth to the tragic incident that took place in the past.

[source: http://www.koreanfilm.or.kr]

Trailer:

Gallery :

Won Bin Becomes ‘Actor of the Year’ for Two Consecutive Years

2011-12-30T05:05:00.000-08:00

Gallup Korea conducted a survey to select the “Actor of the Year,” and Won Bin has been chosen as the best actor for two years in a row. Gallup Korea said on December 22 that they had conducted a survey with 1,728 respondents from both men and women aged 13 or older across the nation from November 18 until December 6 to ask the best movie star of the year, and Won Bin obtained 11.3 percent of the votes. Gallup Korea let the respondents select two actors and counted the total votes.

Won Bin obtained explosive popularity with his appearance in the movie “The Man From Nowhere” last year, and he received the greatest support again even though he did not appear in any movie this year. Actor Park Hae Il, who appeared in the movie “Arrow, The Ultimate Weapon,” has been ranked second by obtaining 9.5 percent of the votes. According to the Gallup’s analysis, the handsome actor Won Bin received great support from teenagers (24.3%) and the twenty-somethings (18.4%), and the actor Park Hae Il with a friendly image obtained great support from the thirty-somethings (17.7%) and the forty-somethings (10.6%). Actor Jang Dong Gun, who was listed second, dropped to third, but he is the only actor who has been included in the top five for four consecutive years. Actress Kim Ha Neul, who played the role of a blind woman in the movie “Blind,” ranked in fourth place by obtaining 8.2 percent of the votes, and the actor Kong Yoo, who presented excellent acting in “Crucible,” ranked in fifth place by obtaining 5.8 percent of the votes.

In addition, Lee Byong Hun (4.8%), Song Kang Ho (4.8%), Ha Ji Won (3.1%), Ahn Sung Ki (3.0%), and Han Seok Kyu (3.0%) were included on the top ten. Actor Han Seok Kyu has not appeared in a movie this year, but he seemed to regain his image as a successful actor by his appearance in the SBS drama “Deep Rooted Tree” that has been obtaining huge popularity. Actors such as Won Bin (2010), Lee Byong Hun (2009), Song Kang Ho (2008), and Jeon Do Yeon (2007) have been named as “Actor of the Year” of Gallup Korea up to now.

source: KBS Global

Upcoming Korean movie "Never Ending Story"

2011-12-15T00:20:00.000-08:00

Starring: Um Tae-woong, Jung Ryu Won, Yoo Seon, Park Ki-woong, Park Sung Kwang

Directed by Jung Yong joo

Trailer:

Synopsis :

Dong-Joo (Uhm Tae-Woong) is a quite guy and a romanticist. Throughout his whole life he hasn't worked very much. Dong-Joo live's with his younger sibling and only plan seems to win the lottery. One day, Dong-Joo is diagnosed with a terminal illness.

Song-Kyung (Jung Ryeo-Won) is a 28-year-old bank teller. She meticulously has a plan for everything. One day, she is suddenly she is diagnosed with a terminal illness. After that, Song-Kyung makes changes in her plans and prepares for her own funeral.

Dong-Joo then meets Song-Kyung who seems to be a polar opposite from him. Dong-Joo starts to plan out the rest of his life. Song-Kyung takes Dong-Joo out on a date.
[source: http://asianmediawiki.com ]

This movie will be released on January 19, 2012.

Miss A's Suzy to make film debut in "Introduction to Architecture

2011-10-21T03:58:00.000-07:00

Miss A's Suzy will debut in her first movie "Introduction to Architecture" directed by Lee Yong Ju.

The movie is a love story of an architecture student (Uhm Tae Woong) falling in love with a music student (Han Ga In) who he met in an Introduction to Architecture class at college. Several years later, the two meet again, when she becomes his client.

Suzy will play the younger version of Han Ga In's character.

The film will start shooting in December.

Song Hye-kyo's New Movie to Premier at Busan Int'l Film Festival

2011-09-25T09:25:00.000-07:00

Actress Song Hye-kyo plays a documentary producer who forgives a 17-year-old boy for killing her fiance in the movie "A Reason to Live," which will premier at the 16th Busan International Film Festival next month.

The film is directed by Lee Jeong-hyang, of "Art Museum by the Zoo" fame. It was officially invited to premiere at the Gala Presentation of the film festival, which will run from Oct. 6 to 14.

The festival was formerly known as the Pusan International Film Festival but amended the spelling of its name this year to conform to the official Romanization of the city in which it is held.

"A Reason to Live" portrays the confusion and sadness that the heroine feels when her forgiveness leads to unexpected results. It will be screened along with a series of activities, including outdoor stage greetings by the actress, press conferences and a conversation with the audience.

"A Reason to Live" will go on general release nationwide from Oct. 27.

source: Chosun Ilbo

Come Rain Come Shine [ Korean Movie 2011]

2011-07-04T03:54:00.000-07:00

Genre : MeloDrama
Starring : Hyun Bin, Im Su-jung
Release date : 3 March 2011
Runtime :105 min.
Directed by: LEE Yoon-ki

Synopsis:

On the day of separation, a couple still play hide and seek with their true feelings. While driving to the airport one day, a young woman tells her husband that she wants to leave him for another man. The husband does not ask her why. On the day she is to move out, a massive storm strikes seemingly stranding her and forcing them to spend another day together. A lot can happen in one day, as their soon to be new reality sinks in.

[source: http://www.koreanfilm.or.kr]

Gallery :

Park Min-young Thrilled About Screen Debut

2011-07-04T03:50:00.000-07:00

Park Min-young said on Thursday that she was excited about her screen debut in the horror flick "The Cat," about a woman who becomes consumed by fear after she adopts a cat found at the site of a mysterious death.

"There's a lot of room for improvement [in terms of my acting ability], because this is my first film, but I hope you enjoy it and that the film gets decent reviews this summer," she said at a media preview. The movie is due to be released next Thursday.

"There are so many things I'm doing for the first time today. This is my first preview for my very first film, and I believe this experience will serve me well for the future."

She said she managed to overcome her fear of the genre to accept the part, which she could not resist because the script was so well-plotted.

"Although I have a problem watching horror films, the scenario was so well written and attractive that I decided to do it," she said.

source: Chosun Ilbo

Go Ara To Film "Papa" In U.S.

2011-07-04T03:47:00.000-07:00

Actress Go Ara will be starring in a new film, "Papa".

Go has joined the team of director Han Ji-seung and production team Sangsang Film's project which also stars Park Yong-woo.

The storyline is about a manager who pushes a young female talent to enter a reality TV show contest in the U.S. Some background information involves the manager having to get married to attain a legal visa and ends up having to raise six children when his wife dies.

After completing her role in "Pacemaker", Go will head over to the U.S. to start filming "Papa".

source: KBS Global

Romance of Their Own [ Korean Movie 2004 ]

2011-04-20T08:20:00.000-07:00

Genre : Romance, Drama
Starring : Jo Han-sun, Lee Cheong-ah, Kang Dong-won
Release date : July 22, 2004
Runtime :113 min.
Directed by: Kim Tae-gyun

Synopsis:

Han-kyung, a country bumpkin in every aspect, moves to Gangsin High school in Seoul to live with her mother. However her Seoul life is full of psychological and physical shocks. Someone throws his slipper at her head while riding the bus. But the problem does not end there. BAN Hea-won, the boy who threw the slipper, is no ordinary guy but the most popular hunk in the neighborhood. He takes fancy at Han-kyung’s bewildered but cute ways and pursues her aggressively. Even worse, JUNG Tae-seong, the shy but strong-fisted and strong-willed zzang(leader) of neighborhood Seonggwon High School has also taken a fancy to Han-kyung. The two rivals in pride and love erupt into a desperate fight, and Han-kyung is touched and confused at the same time. However, Tae-sung cannot love Han-kyung due to an untold secret, but not knowing this, Han-kyung agonizes over ways to not hurt them both. Tae-sung finally leaves Han-kyung and only then Hea-won and Han-kyung realize his secret. Their tragic but youthful story will bring tears to your eyes.

[source: http://www.koreanfilm.or.kr]

Gallery:

Typhoon [ Korean Movie 2005 ]

2011-04-05T07:10:00.000-07:00

Genre : Action, Drama
Starring : Jang Dong-gun, Lee Jung-jae, Lee Mi-yeon
Release date : December 14, 2005
Runtime :124 min.
Directed by: Kwak Kyung-taek

Synopsis:

Myung-sin, who has become a pirate, lives with hatred in his heart and endures the hardships, seeks revenge on the two nations, North and South Korea, using nuclear waste that has the devastating power of plutonium. Se-jong, a South Korean naval officer departs with his team of elite forces to prevent Sin's master plan of Nuclear Typhoon. Born under the same skies of the same race, but of a completely different nation... Living a life so different, the two point their guns at each other's heart...

[source: http://www.koreanfilm.or.kr]

Gallery:

The Man From Nowhere [ Korean Movie 2010 ]

2011-03-20T06:33:00.000-07:00

Genre : Action, Thriller
Starring : Won Bin, Kim Se-Ron
Release date : August 5, 2010
Runtime :119 min.
Directed by: Lee Jeong-Beom

Synopsis:

Having once done time behind bars, CHA Tae-sik now leads a quiet life. His only connection to the rest of the world is a little girl, So-mi, who lives nearby. So-mi’s mother, Hyo-jeong, smuggles drugs for a drug trafficking organization and entrusts Tae-sik with the product. When the traffickers find out they kidnap both Hyo-jeong and So-mi. Mistaking Tae-sik for another mule, the brothers that lead the gang―Man-sik and Jong-sik―promise to release Hyo-jeong and So-mi if Tae-sik makes a delivery for them. Tae-sik makes the decision to face the outside world in order to rescue So-mi. However, the delivery was part of a larger plot to eliminate a rival drug ring leader, Mr. Oh, and Tae-sik is arrested. At the same time, Hyo-jeong’s disemboweled body is discovered, and Tae-sik realizes that So-mi’s life may also be in danger. He fights off half a dozen detectives and escapes from the police station. Now on the run, Tae-sik pursues Man-sik and Jong-sik. In the process, he discovers that their drug ring operates around kidnapped children. Stumbling upon a factory where the brothers have children’s organs removed to accommodate the drugs, Tae-sik rescues one child just before surgery and becomes enraged at the prospect So-mi may already be dead. Tae-sik prepares for a battle with Man-sik and Jong-sik, putting his own life at risk…

[source: http://www.koreanfilm.or.kr]

Gallery :

Cho Seung-woo Set to Return to the Big Screen

2011-02-28T20:44:00.000-08:00

Actor Cho Seung-woo will join the cast of "Peach Tree," the second film to be directed by actress Ku Hye-sun.

Ku's management agency said that Cho will play a conjoined twin alongside and Ryu Duk-hwan Nam Sang-mi.

It is going to be Cho's first movie after completing his military service.

Ku made her directorial debut with "Magic" last year. "Peach Tree," which will be the first movie made through her recently established production company Ku Hye-sun Film, is slated to start filming this spring.

source: Chosun Ilbo

'Late Autumn' Invited to Berlin Film Festival

2011-01-20T23:01:00.000-08:00

The film "Late Autumn" by director Kim Tae-young has been invited to the 61st Berlin International Film Festival. It will screen in the Forum section of the Berlinale, which kicks off on Feb. 10 and is one of the world's three major film festivals.

The movie stars actor Hyun Bin, whose popularity soared recently as he appeared in the hit drama "Secret Garden" and applied to serve his compulsory military term in the Marine Corps.

"Late Autumn" is a remake of a 1966 film directed by Lee Man-hui. It tells the story of a Chinese woman who falls in love with a Korean man on a bus while she is on leave from a prison term for murdering her husband. It is scheduled to open in Korea on Feb. 17.

source: Chosun Ilbo

Kim Hye-ja & "Mother" Get Nods From LAFCA

2010-12-16T05:35:00.000-08:00

The Korean film "Mother" released earlier this year seems to have made an impression abroad. Or it has with the LA film critics anyway.

The Los Angeles Film Critics Association (LAFCA) announced on December 12th (local time), the winning actors/actresses and film projects that they felt were noteworthy from 2010. Actress Kim Hye-ja was awarded with the Best Actress Award for her outstanding performance in the movie "Mother". The runner-up behind her was Jennifer Lawrence in the movie "Winter's Bone". On top of that, LAFCA also felt the Korean project was the second best foreign film to show in the US this year, placing it only behind the movie "Carlos".

"Mother" is about a mother's a desperate struggle to clear her son's name of false murder charges. Playing the mother of the son (played by Wonbin), Kim Hye-ja also won the Asia Pacific Screen Awards for Best Female Actress this past November and the Asia Film Awards for Best Actress in Hong Kong last March.

The LAFCA is an organization founded in 1975, made up of film critics based in Los Angeles. They come together to vote on some of the best actors, actresses, directors, screenplays, movies, etc. for the year during the month of December. The best overall film for 2010 was "The Social Network" and the Best Actor Award went to Colin Firth for his role in "The King's Speech".

source: KBS Global

"The Man From Nowhere" sweeps Korea Film Awards

2010-11-19T20:44:00.000-08:00

Korean action movie "The Man From Nowhere" [CJ Entertainment]

"The Man From Nowhere" triumphed at the 2010 Korea Film Awards on Thursday, raking up the most trophies at the annual ceremony including its main star Won Bin who won the prize for best actor.

The action flick directed by Lee Jeong-bum took the awards for best actor, best new actress, best cinematography, best music, best lighting, best visual effects and best editor.

The movie, also starring child actress Kim Sae-ron, has been one of the hottest movies of the year, attracting over six million moviegoers during its run on the box office for several months starting August.

Won Bin, 33, had been up against Park Joong-hoon for "My Dear Desperado," Park Hui-soon for "A Barefoot Dream," Choi Min-sik for "I Saw the Devil" and Jung Jae-young for "Moss."

Won Bin's role as a reclusive former special agent who befriends a young girl next door has won him his second award for best actor -- the Daejong Film Awards held in late October deemed him the best actor of the year as well.

Meanwhile, Seo Young-hee nabbed the award for best actress with her role in "Bedevilled," ousting nominees Yoon Jeong-hee for "Poetry," Jeon Do-youn for "The Housemaid," Moon So-ri for "Hahaha" and Jung Yu-mi for "My Dear Desperado."

Critically acclaimed director Lee Chang-dong's film "Poetry" starring veteran actress Yoon Jeong-hee took the prize for best picture, best director and best screenplay.

The picture has won a total five awards for best screenplay, including at this year's Cannes Film Festival, the Buil Film Festival, Korea Film Critics Association Award and the Daejong Film Awards.

Awards
▲ Best Picture: "Poetry"
▲ Best Director: Lee Chang-dong ("Poetry")
▲ Best New Director: Jang Cheol-su ("Bedevilled")
▲ Best Actor: Won Bin ("The Man From Nowhere")
▲ Best Actress: Seo Young-hee ("Bedevilled")
▲ Best Supporting Actor: Yoo Hae-jin ("Moss")
▲ Best Supporting Actress: Yoon Yeo-jung ("The Housemaid"
▲ Best New Actor: Song Sae-byuk ("A Story of Bangja")
▲ Best New Actress: Kim Sae-ron ("The Man From Nowhere")
▲ Best Cinematography: Lee Tae-yoon ("The Man From Nowhere")
▲ Best Music: Shim Hyun-jung ("The Man From Nowhere")
▲ Best Art Direction: Park Il-hyun ("A Story of Bangja")
▲ Best Screenplay: Lee Chang-dong ("Poetry")
▲ Best Lighting: Lee Cheol-oh ("The Man From Nowhere")
▲ Best Sound: Gong Tae-won ("Midnight FM")
▲ Best Visual Effects: Park Jung-ryul ("The Man From Nowhere")
▲ Best Editor: Kim Sang-beom Kim Jae-beom ("The Man From Nowhere")
▲ Lifetime Achievement: Shin Sung-il

Jessica Kim jesskim@
<ⓒ10Asia All rights reserved>

Song Seung Hun’s ‘Ghost’ Ranks Second at Japanese Box Office

2010-11-19T07:05:00.000-08:00

The much-talked-about movie “Ghost: In Your Arms Again,” in which Hallyu star actor Song Seung Hun and Japanese star actress Nanako Matsushima appear together, has been released in Japan and ranked in second place at the Japanese box office.

According to a Japanese research institute, “Ghost: In Your Arms Again,” which is a remake of the movie "Ghost" starring Patrick Swayze and Demi Moore, had been released all around Japan on November 13 and ranked second at the weekend box-office.

In the film, Korean potter Joon Ho (Song Seung Hun) meets a successful CEO Nanami (Nanako Matsushima) in Tokyo and they fall in love with each other. But Nanami leaves this world due to a sudden accident and she comes back to see Joon Ho as a ghost. A sensitive melodrama, “Ghost : In Your Arms Again“ will be released in Korea on November 25.

source: KBS Global

The Good, the Bad, the Weird [ Korean Movie 2008 ]

2010-11-06T20:16:00.000-07:00

Genre : Action, Comedy, Western
Starring : Song Kang-ho , Lee Byung-hun, Jung Woo-sung
Release date : July 17, 2008
Runtime :139 min.
Directed by: Kim Ji-woon

Synopsis:

With the Korean Peninsula under Japanese rule in 1930s, many Koreans flock to Manchuria for refuge. Some become bandits, some train robbers and yet others bounty hunters. While the Weird, a notorious train robber, is stealing from a Japanese train crossing the Manchurian plains, he discovers a treasure map. But the map is also sought after by the Bad, a merciless gang leader. Coincidentally, the Good, a bounty hunter, is on the train, and he is after the Bad. The three engage in a spectacular chase with the Japanese Army, the Korean independence fighters, and the Chinese bandits all looking to get their hands on the prized map.

[source: http://www.koreanfilm.or.kr]

Gallery:

Kim Ha-neul cast as female lead for upcoming thriller

2010-11-04T21:55:00.000-07:00

A still from the upcoming thriller "Blind" [NEW]

Korean actress Kim Ha-neul has been cast as the female lead for a new upcoming thriller film.

A press release from movie promoter's NEW on Tuesday announced that Kim will be playing the female lead role opposite Korean actor Yoo Seung-ho in a crime pic titled "Blind."

"When I received the scenario it was a role that I felt would test my level as an actress. I want to put all my energy into the movie and meet the expectations of the staff and fans," Kim was quoted as saying.

"Blind," helmed by Ahn Sang-hoon, is about a visually impaired woman (Kim) who witnesses a horrendous crime while Yoo will play the male lead who acts as the 'eyes' for Kim's character.

The movie had won the awards as the best and most popular project at the "2009 Hit By Pitch" hosted by the Producers Guild of Korea which aims at enhancing producers' expertise and revitalizing film productions.

“Blind” is scheduled to open in local theaters in summer of 2011.

Reporter : Lucia Hong luciahong@
Editor : Jessica Kim jesskim@
<ⓒ10Asia All rights reserved>

Posters for new romantic comedy "First Love" revealed

2010-10-30T06:37:00.000-07:00

Movie poster for upcoming romantic comedy "First Love" [CJ Entertainment]

Movie posters for an upcoming Korean romantic comedy tentatively titled "First Love" were unveiled today.

The first poster reveals Korean actor Gong Yoo holding a name card to help find Lim Soo-jung her first love while the latter shows Lim hugging a giant heart.

Based on a musical which has been performed over 1,200 times on stage since its premiere in 2006, "First Love" is about Seo Ji-woo (Lim) who during her trip to India re-encounters her first love and asks for the help of Han Ki-jun (Gong Yoo) to search for him.

Lim made her debut as a model in 1998 and rose to stardom after starring in the horror film "A Tale of Two Sisters." She later starred in the hit TV series "I'm Sorry, I Love You" and films "Lump of Sugar" and "WOOCHI."

Born Gong Ji-cheol, Gong Yoo made his debut with a role in KBS' TV show "School 4" in 2001. He appeared in several dramas such as "Hello My Teacher" and "The 1st Shop of Coffee Prince" and movies "My Tutor Friend" and "She's On Duty."

The movie is set to open in local theaters in December.

Reporter: Lucia Hong luciahong@
Editor : Jessica Kim jesskim@
<ⓒ10Asia All rights reserved>

Hyun Bin's film "Late Autumn" to open next month

2010-10-22T21:04:00.000-07:00

official movie poster for "Late Autumn" [Lotte Entertainment]

Korean film "Late Autumn," starring Hyun Bin and Chinese actress Tang Wei, will open in local theaters on November 25.

A press release from Lotte Entertainment revealed the date of director Kim Tae-yong's movie about a coincidental meeting between a male gigolo named Hoon (Hyun Bin) and Anna (Tang Wei), who is in jail for murdering her abusive husband.

The movie was first released in 1966 by famed Korean filmmaker Lee Man-hee and it was re-made three times -- into "Promise of the Body" in 1975, "Manchu" in 1982 and Japanese film "Promise" in 1972.

Born Kim Tae-pyung, Hyun Bin rose to stardom after his role in the smash MBC TV series "My Name is Kim Sam-soon" in 2005. He is currently working on the upcoming SBS drama "Secret Garden" alongside Ha Ji-won.

Tang Wei made her debut in 1998 in the movie "Chinese Female Football" and became an international star after starring as the heroine in the flick "Lust, Caution" in 2007.

Reporter : Lucia Hong luciahong@
Editor : Jessica Kim jesskim@
<ⓒ10Asia All rights reserved>

Jun Ji-hyun considering new movie role

2010-10-22T20:35:00.000-07:00

Korean actress Jun Ji-hyun [Asia Economic Daily]

Korean actress Jun Ji-hyun is considering a role in an upcoming movie by famed director E J-yong.

"Jun is currently in talks to appear in a movie titled 'Falling in Love,'" an official from her agency J&Co. Entertainment told Sports Today over the phone on Thursday, adding that the actress is looking at her role in a positive light but nothing has been confirmed as of yet with many adjustments having to be made.

"Falling in Love" is about a married woman falling for a manager of a club even though she finds out he approached her for her money and the man too gradually develops actual feelings of love for the woman.

"Love" claimed the Kodak Award during this year's Pusan Promotion Plan of the annual Pusan International Film Festival, winning it funds for production from Kodak Korea Limited.

Director E is well known for his works including "Untold Scandal" (2003) starring Hallyu star Bae Yong-joon and "The Actresses" (2009).

Jun Ji-hyun, whose English name is Gianna Jun, rose to stardom after her role in the 2001 hit movie "My Sassy Girl." She made her international film debut last year in the action flick "Blood: The Last Vampire" and "Snow Flower and the Secret Fan."

Jun parted ways with her management agency Sidus HQ after 14 years to establish her own agency J&Co. Entertainment in mid-October.

Reporter : Ko Kyoung-seok kave@
Editor : Lucia Hong luciahong@
<ⓒ10Asia All rights reserved>

71: Into the Fire [ Korean Movie 2010 ]

2010-10-21T06:13:00.000-07:00

Genre : War
Starring : Kwon Sang-Woo , Cha Seung-Won, T.O.P, Kim Seung-Woo
Release date : June 16, 2010
Runtime :120 min.
Directed by: Lee Jae-han

Synopsis:

A story of 71 student soldier trainees who fought an impossible war against seasoned North Korean army during Korean War which broke out in 1950. Based on real history, the film delicately depicts the fierce battle that teenage student soldiers fall into as they fight to protect the final defense line by themselves when under a surprise attack and their emotions and conflicts as they experience the grown-ups’ war.
[source: http://www.koreanfilm.or.kr]

Gallery:

'Oldboy' Ranked Among World's Top 100 Films

2010-10-14T00:36:00.000-07:00

Park Chan-wook's "Oldboy" was included on a list of the world's Essential 100 Films released by the Toronto International Film Festival on Monday.

Ranked at 99th place, the 2003 revenge thriller is the only Korean film on the list, which mostly is made up of movies made before 2000.

The top honor went to "The Passion of Joan of Arc (1928)" by French director Carl Theodor Dreyer, while Orson Welles' "Citizen Kane (1941)" was the runner up.

Francis Ford Coppola's "The Godfather (1972)" came in fourth, Akira Kurosawa's "Seven Samurai (1954)" was sixth, Michael Curtiz' "Casablanca (1942)" eighth, and Vittorio De Sica's "Bicycle Thieves (1948)" 10th.

Based on a Japanese comic book, "Oldboy" follows the journey of a man who seeks to learn the identity of the person who imprisoned him for 15 years. It won the Grand Prix at the 2004 Cannes Film Festival, and was named among 25 must-see foreign films by a U.S. magazine last year. It is currently being remade in Hollywood.

source: Chosun Ilbo

Song Seung Hun "I Loved the Original Movie 'A Better Tomorrow'"

2010-09-08T08:03:00.000-07:00

Actor Song Seung Hun has made a comeback after a two-year break by playing Lee Young Choon in the movie "A Better Tomorrow, 2010."

Song said, "I and every man my age actually admired the movie 'A Better Tomorrow' in the past. In that movie, the actor Chow Yun Fat, who fired guns with both hands and lit a cigarette by lighting fire to faked bills, looked wonderful. I thought that I would be criticized anyway even though I performed very well in the movie.”

A Hallyu star, Song Seung Hun, came back to the screen by appearing in the movie “A Better Tomorrow, 2010,” which is a remake of director John Woo’s original movie “A Better Tomorrow (1986).” He made a comeback to the film after a two-year break since the movie “Destiny,” in which Kwon Sang Woo and Song Seung Hun had appeared as the protagonists.

During an interview held at a café in Samcheongdong, Song Seung Hun said, “We did not just try to reproduce the original, instead we produced a Korean style of storyline and a movie filled with Korean sentiment. The movie is not just a simple remake.”

The movie tells the stories of Hyuk (Joo Jin Mo), who belongs to an organization smuggling weapons, Hyuk’s younger brother Chul (Kim Kang Woo), who has to chase Hyuk as a policeman, and Tae Min (Cho Han Sun), who tries to conquer the organization by eliminating the others. The movie will be released on September 16.

Song Seung Hun played a North Korean defector named Young Choon who works at the weapon smuggling organization. He said, "I decided to appear in this movie because I have a deep-rooted trust toward the director, and since my debut movie, in which I had worked together with the director, I have always wanted to work with him again someday."

Actor Song Seung Hun and the director, Song Hae Sung, met again 11 years after they filmed the movie "Calla (1999).” Since that time, the director Song had developed into a famous movie director by making movies such as "Failan” (2001) and “Maundy Thursday” (2006), and the actor Song had become a Hallyu star by appearing in many dramas and movies.

Song Seung Hun said, "Director Song has come to have more clear views of his own. He used to listen to actors' opinions before, but he has changed to a person who wants to carry his own points" (laugh).

The original movie, "A Better Tomorrow" is a major work of Hong Kong Noir, in which Hong Kong’s star actors of the 1980s such as Chow Yun Fat, Leslie Cheung and Ti Lung had appeared, and it actually had a profound influence in Hong Kong’s movie industry as an action movie.

Song Seung Hun had inevitably felt pressured about the original, but he did his best to draw an evaluation from viewers saying that the remake movie came close to the original. For playing the character Young Choon in earnest, he started to smoke again even though he had quit smoking five years ago, and he had practiced disassembling a rifle at home to showcase a realistic scene. He had also learned how to play the piano and how to operate a boat. He did not even apply any lotion to his face to look as tough as possible.

He said, “Director Song asked me to show hazy eyes to express Young Choon, who had been ruined over a period of three years, but I could not understand his request and I even felt bitter about him. But, after I watched the completed movie, I could understand why he asked me that kind of request and I felt sorry because I might have been able to perform better if I had more time for preparation.”

After he had left the army in 2006, he had played muscular characters in works such as “Destiny,””East of Eden (2008),” and “A Better Tomorrow, 2010” because he had wanted to abandon his former soft and tender image shown in dramas such as “Autumn in my Heart (2000)” and “Summer Scent (2003).” Song said while smiling, “I had been described as a soft character in the previous dramas, but actually my personality is a long way from those soft images.”

He will begin filming the drama “My Princess” from the middle of next month and act with the actress Kim Tae Hee in the drama. By appearing in this drama, he will come back to the small screen with a soft image again. He stated, “I have never played a wealthy character before, I always had to suffer from hunger and I had been depressed all the time within the drama. I am used to taking the role of a son coming from a poor and complicated family. It will be the first light and pleasant drama after a sitcom drama, so I expect that filming this drama will be very exciting and fun.”

Hallyu star Song Seung Hun recently filmed the movie “Ghost” with the actress Nanako Matsushima, who has been popular in Korea because of her Japanese movie “Ring.” The movie “Ghost” is also a remake movie of the original movie (1990) with the same title, in which Patrick Swayze and Demi Moore played the protagonists.

He added, “Since I cannot speak Japanese, I felt frustrated because I could not express myself very well due to language, but as time went by, I could realize that language was not that important in acting. In the end, I could concentrate on acting and was deeply immersed in emotion even more than when I acted in Korean films, so sometimes I did not listen to the director’s instruction saying ‘cut’ and kept acting on the set.”

source: KBS Global

Late Autumn invited to Toronto

2010-08-28T23:54:00.000-07:00

South Korean director KIM Tae-Yong’s ambitious Korea-China-US co-production Late Autumn has been officially invited to the 35th Toronto International Film Festival, which opens September 9, 2010. Late Autumn will screen in the World Contemporary Cinema section, joining IM Sang-soo’s The Housemaid in the Gala category and KIM Jee-woon’s I Saw the Devil in the Special Presentations section.

Late Autumn is KIM’s first English-language production, set and filmed in Washington state, and starring the rising pan-Asian Korean actor HYUN Bin and of Chinese actress TANG WeiLust, Caution. The film is the fourth remake of a lost Korean masterpiece of the same titled by cinematic genius LEE Man-hee, released in 1966. Famed directors KIM Ki-young and KIM Soo-yong made admired remakes in 1975 (Promise of the Flesh) and 1981 (Manchu), respectively.

Following the theme of the original, the story revolves around Anna, a Chinese-American woman imprisoned for murdering her husband, who, while on a 3-day parole meets and falls in love with a Korean-American man on the run. They promise to meet again in two years, but will their promise be kept?

Director KIM is known for his critically acclaimed previous film Family Ties (2006) and his feature debut, the girls high school horror Memento Mori (1999). Late Autumn is a joint production between Korea’s Boram Entertainment, M&FC, and US company North by Northwest. A Korean release is expected in the Fall of 2010.

credits: Nigel D’Sa (KOFIC)

Korean Remake A Better Tomorrow invited to Venice

2010-08-28T22:48:00.000-07:00

Korea’s remake of John Woo's quintessential gangster drama ‘A Better Tomorow’ has been invited for a special out-of-competition screening at the 2010 Venice Film Festival. Directed by SONG Hae-sung (Failan, Maundy Thursday) and starring four major male stars, the film will be released in Korea on September 16.

The original 1986 production set the bench mark for Hong Kong noir style films and helped break Hong Kong films into the international arena. In addition, Hong Kong films are thought to have directly inspired Korean films such as Shiri (1999) the North Korean spy gangster thriller which itself spawned a whole succession of films. Remaking A Better Tomorow then takes the Korean film industry in a full circle. There is so much confidence in the project that even the director of the original Hong Kong film, John Woo, is a producer on the Korean remake.

It has been said of the original A Better Tomorow that it changed the Hong Kong film industry forever. Part of the reason for this may have been the casting of iconic Hong Kong actors Leslie Cheung and Chow Yun Fat. Taking the lead roles in the Korean production are (Ha Ha Ha 2010, Marine Boy 2009), KIM Kang-wooJOO Jin-mo (A Frozen Flower 2008, 200 Pounds Beauty 2006), JO Han-seon (Attack the Gas Station 2 2009, Cruel Winter Blues 2006) and SONG Seung-heon (Fate 2008). The film has secured a coup in casting these four ‘it’ actors already creating a substantial buzz around the production of the remake. JOO plays the boss of the gang involved in shady deals who has lost contact with his young brother Cheol, played by KIM who has now become a police officer. Cheol of course thinking he was originally abandoned by his brother is out for blood, which all leads to the familiar themes of betrayal and honor, and a tragic climax.

source: KOFIC

Rain highly likely to star in remake film

2010-08-11T04:51:00.000-07:00

Asian superstar Rain is highly likely to play the main character of film "Red Scarf," a remake of the Korean movie of the same name from 1964.

"The details have yet to be set but there is a very high possibility," an official with the film remarked regarding Rain's casting which would mark the singer and actor's second local big screen role.

His first movie role was in critically acclaimed director Park Chan-wook's "I'm a Cyborg, But That's Okay" where he played the male lead opposite top Korean actress Lim Su-jeong.

The original "Red Scarf" production, by late director Shin Sang-ok, is about how an Air Force pilot becomes a true soldier.

The remake will tell of the life and comradeship of various soldiers and be produced jointly by Jang Tae-gon, producer of the original movie, and CJ Entertainment.

Rain, 28, has received a notice to enlist in the military on September 28 this year -- all Korean men are required to fulfill the country's two-year mandatory military duties. But he is expected to be able to defer the date since he is also studying for a master's degree.

Rain, whose real name is Jung Ji-hoon, is one of Asia's most popular entertainers who has achieved a phenomenal level of success in both singing and acting.

He went from being a promising trainee to a mega-popular singer and actor in just ten years, releasing six studio albums and starring in several hit television dramas.

In 2008, he went to Hollywood and made his international debut with a supporting role in the Wachowski Brothers' pic "Speed Racer," followed by a lead role in martial arts film "Ninja Assassin."

Jessica Kim jesskim@
<ⓒ10Asia All rights reserved>

Lee Byung-hun, Son Ye-jin, Bong Joon-ho Win APN Awards

2010-08-11T04:44:00.000-07:00

Actors Lee Byung-hun and Son Ye-jin and director Bong Joon-ho have been named the winners of the 2010 APN Awards by the Asian-Pacific Producers Network. They will be awarded the prize in Jecheon, North Chungcheong Province on Friday.

The annual award presented by the organization of over 100 film producers from the Asia-Pacific region used to be given to only one actor or actress from the host country of the APN general assembly that year. It has now been expanded to three categories -- an actor, actress and director.

Previous recipients include Jeon Do-yeon of "Secret Sunshine" in 2007 and Kenichi Matsuyama of "Death Note" in 2008.

The upcoming APN meeting, which will discuss potential joint productions and copyright issues, is scheduled for Thursday through Saturday on the sidelines of the Jecheon International Music & Film Festival.

source: Chosun Ilbo

A Good Rain Knows [ Korean Movie 2009 ]

2010-08-10T02:52:00.000-07:00

Genre : Romance
Starring : Jung Woo-Sung, Yuanyuan Gao
Release date : October 8, 2009
Runtime :100 min.
Directed by : Jin-ho Heo

Synopsis:

Timely like the spring rain, so has he come back into my life... Dong-ha is a thirty-something Korean man on a business trip to Chengdu, China where his company is carrying out construction projects to rebuild the city after the earthquake of 2008. There, totally by chance, he meets an old friend from his school days in the U.S. May is originally from Chengdu, and she has come back here after graduation and now works as a tour guide. Dong-ha and May were perhaps more than friends and had feelings for each other then, but they parted ways before they had a chance to define or declare them. Now that they are thrown on each other’s path again, however, they find that the old feelings remain and new ones are forming and that they resemble love.
[source: http://www.koreanfilm.or.kr]

Gallery:

Chun Jung-myung cast in upcoming noir film

2010-08-06T01:13:00.000-07:00

Korean actor Chun Jung-myung [Office Zero]

Korean actor Chun Jung-myung has joined the cast of a film noir drama film also starring top actor Song Kang-ho and actress Sin Se-gyeong, his first time to take on a big screen role since being discharged from the military late last year.

The film's distributor CJ Entertainment announced in a press release on Wednesday that Chun will be playing a character who remains loyal to his gang's boss (played by Song) even after he retires while also developing feelings for Se-bin, to be taken by actress Sin, who approaches the boss with the intention of killing him.

The upcoming movie, tentatively titled "Blue Salt," will be helmed by noted filmmaker Lee Hyun-seung, who is known for his other film noirs including "Il Mare (2000)," "If You Were Me 4" (2009) and "Enlightenment Film" (2009).

Chun, 29, made his break into the entertainment industry with his role in KBS's drama "School 2" (1999). He has appeared in other small screen roles such as SBS' "Fashion 70s" and most recently in KBS' "Sister of Cinderella" with Korean actress Moon Geun-young.

He also starred in Korean films "The Aggressives" (2005), "Les Formidables" (2006) and "Hansel and Gretel" (2007).

Filming for "Blue Salt" will begin this summer.

Reporter : Lucia Hong luciahong@
Editor : Jessica Kim jesskim@
<ⓒ10Asia All rights reserved>

Won Bin: ‘I Dreamed of Becoming Actor After Watching Action Movie’

2010-08-05T03:16:00.000-07:00

The movie “The Man From Nowhere,” which will be released on August 4, is a very violent movie with realistic action scenes. The fight scene in which Tae Sik, who is the former member of a special forces unit, devastates a criminal organization that kidnapped a neighbor girl contains violent scenes such as splattered blood and broken bones, but the scene is also filled with resolute and well-made action sequences.

An interviewer met actor Won Bin, who has been "reborn" as an action hero, at a café located in Samcheong-dong, Jongno on August 2. He had previously filmed battle scenes in the movie “Taegukgi“ and he had carried a gun when he filmed the movie “Guns and Talks,” but he mentioned that this is the first time for him to film a legitimate action movie.

He said, “When I was a high school student, I completely indulged in action movies. When I watched the movie ‘Terrorist,’ I came to have a dream of becoming an actor. I just had the vague thought of thinking ‘It looks cool. I wish that I could film that kind of movie.’ But, it took about fourteen years for me since my debut to realize my dream of filming an action movie."

Won Bin has clean-cut features not readily associated with the word ‘Mister,’ which is the Korean title of the movie. Director Lee Jeong Bum had reportedly kept in mind an image of a middle-aged man character for the role. Won Bin related his thoughts about this image, saying, “When I first read the script of the film, I wanted to play the character, and I thought that it might be more interesting if a male actor who does not look like a middle-aged man performs the role.” Won Bin does not have the image of a tough man, such as actor Choi Min Soo, who played the protagonist in the movie “Terrorist,” which had given the dream of becoming an actor to Won Bin, but he successfully portrayed the character who has a deep scars inside and effectively expressed the anger of the character emotionally.

He informed the interviewer that he had talked with the director many times about the character and he had actually focused on portraying the character’s emotion through action. He explained, “Tae Sik’s depressed feelings were expressed in the form of action. Action is actually Tae Sik’s language in this movie.”

He continued, “Filming the action scenes was very exciting. Also, when I filmed some action scenes not typical of Korean action movies, I was even more amazed. I had to perform the movements that come naturally when a special agent is faced with the enemy and prepares for counterattack, so I had to be equipped with the basic movements. I trained to use a gun and sword and to perform action steps three months before filming began. Practicing the steps was very tricky. My upper body and lower body have to move together, but actually they move in different directions.”

He presented the fast and disciplined action which is a mixture of traditional Asian martial arts such as Penjak Silat, Kali, and Arnis. Which scene did he feel was the most dangerous for him? He picked the scene in which he is thrown off a building and falls onto the net of a driving range. He said, “I was hanging from the height of a five-story building, relying on only a single rope. In the scene, I had to fall down while feigning unconsciousness, so I was really dizzy when I filmed the scene.”

The movie “The Man From Nowhere“ is the first movie in which Won Bin plays the sole protagonist. When he filmed the movie “Taegukgi,“ actor Jang Dong Gun acted as another protagonist together with him; when he filmed the movie “Mother,” he played the male lead alongside actress Kim Hye Ja, and when he filmed the movie “My Brother,” actor Shin Ha Kyun was the main actor along with Won Bin. This time, Won Bin has to solve every problem in this movie as the sole protagonist. But, he does not attach great importance to that fact. He said, “I just approached this movie as an actor. Some people say that I am the single protagonist of this movie, but I tried not to put so much importance on the fact because thinking that way could disturb my acting by giving me pressure. In fact, I did not have enough time to think about those things because the filming schedule was so tight. At this moment, while I wait for the release of the movie in the midst of many people’s excited anticipation, I am feeling a little bit of pressure.”

From his first movie “Guns and Talks” in 2001, which was directed by director Jang Jin, to this latest movie “The Man From Nowhere,” he has filmed five movies. Even taking into account the break from the time when he entered the army until his discharge due to family problems, the number of works in which he has appeared is not very high. He explained, “I could not find works that I really wanted to appear in. When I filmed the movies such as “Taegukgi” and “Mother,” it took a long time for filming. I want to act consistently and slowly for a long time, rather than appearing in many different works.”

What does Won Bin usually do when he does not work? He answered, "Most of the time, I stay at home. I watch movies and read books. I usually do not meet people very often or drink alcohol with people. Sometimes, night and day become switched for me, and during those times, I do not sleep at night and watch movies until the early morning, and go to bed afterward. I have been quite busy, so I have not been able to go to the cinema since the movie ‘The Servant.’”

source: KBS Global

Can Wonbin Take On DiCaprio and Jolie?

2010-08-05T02:56:00.000-07:00

The movie "???" or "Mister" started showing in theatres in Korea on August 4th. This is the first project where Wonbin is the one main star. No equally-ranked co-star to share the limelight with.

Currently, the Korean box offices are being dominated by Leonardo Dicaprio's hit "Inception" and?the Angelina Jolie-starring "Salt" with each bringing in 3 million and 1.5 million viewers, respectively. "Mister" received favorable reviews after the media screening so all eyes are on the domestic flick to see if it an tackle out the two international blockbusters. Especially so because?another popular Korean movie, "Ikki", failed to maintain its top status against them.

Reviews?included "this is breaking new ground for action movies", "Wonbin is showing a new never-before-seen transformation", "the best example of Wonbin's charm and talents", and "the soundtrack is the perfect accompaniament to the well-made action scenes".

The story is about a lonely man (played by Wonbin)?who keeps to himself, away from the rest of the world. His only friend is his female next door neighbor Somi, played by Kim Sae-ron, who requires rescuing when she's kidnapped by a crime gang. This thus leads Wonbin's character to come out of his hermit-hole to save her.

source : KBS Global

Ku Hye-sun's first feature pic "Magic" invited to JIMFF

2010-07-29T05:36:00.000-07:00

Official poster for Ku Hye-sun's film "Magic"

Korean actress Ku Hye-sun will be presenting her first feature film "Magic" at the 6th Jecheon International Music & Film Festival (JIMFF) next month, according to her agency YG Entertainment (YG) on Monday.

YG announced in a press release that actress-turned-director has been invited to show her film at JIMFF, to be held in the city of Jecheon in North Chungcheong Province from August 12 to 17.

JIMFF -- a music and film festival held under the concept 'harmony among movies, music and nature' -- introduces various music films from Korea as well as overseas. "Magic" will be presented in a section called 'Today In Korea's Music Films.'

Set in an art school, "Magic" is a story about the passion and competition among young musicians and features various music genres including classical music, folk songs and Korean pop music. Two notable tunes in the film are reinterpretations of traditional folk melody "Arirang" and "You In My Arms" by the late Korean singer Yoo Jae-ha.

"Magic" was previously shown at the Jeonju International Film Festival earlier this year prior to its theater release on June 24.

In June, the actress was also awarded the "Spotlight Award" at the 12th Short Shorts Film Festival & Asia for her 2008 short feature "The Madonna."

The pic had been shown at several film events last year including the Asiana International Short Film Festival, the Puchon International Fantastic Film Festival and the Pusan Asian Short Film Festival, where it won the Audience Award.

Ku, 25, had originally planned to debut as a singer with South Korea's major talent agency YG Entertainment but she started acting in several TV dramas and made a breakthrough with a role in 2006 KBS TV series "Pure in Heart".

She then became a household name throughout Asia after starring in the mega-hit TV series "Boys Over Flowers" (KBS, 2009) as the character Geum Jan-di. Ku is also a talented singer and songwriter, artist, novelist and scriptwriter.

She will be returning to the small screen through upcoming TV series "The Musical," in which she plays a medical student who dreams of becoming a musical actress.

Reporter : Lynn Kim lynn2878@
Editor : Jessica Kim jesskim@
<ⓒ10Asia All rights reserved>

Song Hye-kyo ponders new film by Lee Jung-hyang

2010-07-29T05:27:00.000-07:00

Korean actress Song Hye-kyo may be returning to the big screen through a new film by director Lee Jung-hyang, best-known for 2002 hit pic "The Way Home."

"She is considering appearing in director Lee Jung-hyang's new film but it has not been finalized," an official at Song's agency Eden 9 Entertainment told Asia Economic Daily over the phone on Tuesday. "It is hard to decide on her next project since we have not been notified of when the movie she is currently filming in China will end."

Lee Jung-hyang's upcoming movie, which remains untitled, is a story about the conflicts and growth a television producer experiences after losing her fiance in a hit-and-run accident.

It is Lee's first film since "Home," which turned then-child actor Yoo Seung-ho into a household name, became a local box office hit eight years ago.

Song, 28, shot to fame throughout Asia after starring in several hit TV dramas including "Autumn In My Heart" (KBS, 2000), "All In" (SBS, 2003) and "Full House" (KBS, 2004) alongside Asian pop sensation Rain. She was last seen in the drama "The World That They Live In" (KBS, 2008) and made headlines for dating her co-star Hyun Bin.

She has also done some work on the big screen including "Hwang Jin-i" (2007), "Poetry" (2008) and Asian omnibus pic "Carmelia" (2010), directed by Jang Joon-hwan and co-starring Gang Dong-won.

The actress is currently shooting Wong Kar-wai pic "The Grand Master" in China.

Reporter : Ko Kyoung-seok kave@
Editor : Lynn Kim lynn2878@
<ⓒ10Asia All rights reserved>

'Man'hardboiled but touching

2010-07-29T04:20:00.000-07:00

Won Bin, right, and Kim Sae-ron star in a scene from "The Man From Nowhere.’’ The action drama by Lee Jeong-beom opens in theaters on Aug. 4.

It’s bloody and brutal, and harrowingly so ― as it pins down a soft spot in the hearts of viewers.

While featuring some of the most memorable child acting, this hardboiled action flick really must be kept far away from the young ones. "The Man From Nowhere’’ is quite predictable in many ways, but the manipulative jabbing effect is sorely felt because all the cruelty leaves you as vulnerable as the victimized children in the film. Breathless and flabbergasted, you’re bound to find solace in the tender melodrama, like a parched sojourner at an oasis in the middle of the desert.

Director Lee Jeong-beom has nevertheless crafted a convincing story that stands on its own two feet. Its strength lies in the fine details such as the carefully chosen supporting cast, witty dialogue and zesty comic relief, as well as character development and flashes of impressive cinematography.

Leading man Won Bin, moreover, makes it loud and clear that the project marks the full-fledged flight of his "second life as an actor,’’ which he once said about his international breakthrough role in Bong Joon-ho’s "Mother.’’

In his previous film Won showed that the brightest lights cast the darkest shadows, how the most transparent figures can harbor the most surprising secrets. Here he crosses over to the dark side once and for all, and trades in "Mother’s’’ oafish demeanor for sharp wits and really, really quick feet.

Dubbed "the pawn shop ghost,’’ Tae-sik, haunted by some painful past in his former work as a secret agent, lives in reclusion. He doesn’t say much while running an obscure pawn shop, and doesn’t even care to cut his hair.

So-mi, a neglected 10-year-old who lives next door, however, brightens up his stark existence like a ray of light. "People say you’re a child molester,’’ she says, but knows better about her one and only friend, and always invites herself over for a decent meal or to find refuge when her single mom decides to have a dose of drugs. In turn she does small chores like uploading songs onto Tae-sik’s mp3 player.

Korean cinema in recent years has seen pairings of unlikely duos, and Kim Sae-ron, the little girl with big talent of the Franco-Korean collaboration "A Brand New Life,’’ brings a breath of fresh air to the screen. Though children and animal co-stars are a faux pas for adult actors, since their cuteness steals the lime light, Won has no worries since most of the screen time is devoted to Tae-sik running to So-mi’s rescue.

So-mi is kidnapped by a crime ring when her club dancer mother becomes involved in a case, and Tae-sik, who seems to have discovered a pulse in his deadened heart, cuts his hair so he can run around to save his little friend. The viewer is given several tasks ― to wonder what this deep dark secret of his is all about while worrying about So-mi, who, for the black market organ sellers, is more valuable as a corpse.

When considering the illegal organ trade, films like "Dirty Pretty Things’’ come to mind. The skin-crawling realities of the illicit business was rendered palpable by setting it against a heartrending romance, and "The Man From Nowhere’’ plays at something similar, though with a touch of "Leon’’ with a narrative centered on the bond between a little girl and this "ajeossi,’’ or uncle figure.

Like other characters in the film, the audience may initially wonder why Tae-sik, who isn’t even So-mi’s dad, is willing to risk his life for her. Yet as his secrets unravel the film tugs at the heart for the right reasons, as it touches upon basic human needs, like the yearning for a reason to live, or die, and "jeong,’’ the feeling of fellowship that unites people together beyond blood ties.

Also intriguing is the subplot involving the detective handling the case and a powerful member of the crime ring (performed charismatically by Thai star Thanayong Wongtraku).

credit: Lee Hyo-won(Staff reporter)
source: koreatimes.co.kr

The man from Nowhere's trailer

Won Bin: "I Almost Killed Myself While Filming Action Scene"

2010-07-14T04:25:00.000-07:00

"When I first tried to perform a wire stunt, I had the impression, It is too tough, I should not do this again. I could die while I am filming this action scene. The most dangerous moment was when I fought holding a sword in my hand. If I did something wrong even slightly, I could hurt my eyes or my face." -Won Bin

In the production presentation for the movie The Man From Nowhere, which was held in Apgujeong CGV on July 8, the main protagonist Won Bin revealed that the action scenes were very difficult for him. In the movie, Won Bin played Tae Sik, who is the former member of a special forces unit and lives alone by running pawnshops. When a girl living next door, who is his only friend, is kidnapped by a criminal organization, he throws himself into the fray to save the girl.

Won Bin said that trained to use a gun and a sword three months before filming began. He said, Action scenes take up a large portion in this movie. I have agonized over how I can deliver my emotion to viewers, the emotions of urgency and impatience to save the girl to the point of giving everything I have.

He explained that he decided to appear in this movie because he was really touched by Tae Sikâ€™s love demonstrated by risking his life to rescue the girl living next door, who was not even his family or his relative.

Director Lee Jung Chul said about Won Bin, He is soft and delicate. Those aspects are advantages for actors who have to act with a child. Also, I was horrified by his expressionless face when he performed action scenes.

He continued to explain, I have worried about how to show the process of those two people coming to understand each other. I read many postings on the Internet which compares this movie with movies such as Leon and Man On Fire, and I agree with those people's opinion. But, I focused on Korean sentiments, and the action scenes are rather realistic than spectacular, so there are clear differences.

The role of the girl is played by Kim Sae Ron. She received attention for her splendid acting in the Korean-French movie A Brand New Life, 2009, which was directed by Ounie Lecomte. Kim Sae Ron said, At first, I did not know Won Bin, but I found out who he is just before beginning filming when I saw his TV commercial.Her utterance raised a laugh.

The movie The Man From Nowhere will be released on August 5.

source: KBS Global

Lee Da-hae make big screen debut with "Song of Springs"

2010-06-25T09:02:00.000-07:00

Korean actress Lee Da-hae [DBM Entertainment]

Korean actress Lee Da-hae will be making her big screen debut in an upcoming historical movie, according to the movie's producer Sang Sang Entertainment on Thursday.

A press release from Sang Sang announced that Lee will play the female lead named Ara in the film "Song of Springs," based on the novel of the same name written by novelist Kim Hoon, opposite Lee Sung-jae and Ahn Sung-ki.

"Springs" will be helmed by famed director Joo Kyeong-joong, who won best director at the Asia Pacific Screen Awards for "A Little Monk."

"Springs" has already been sold to Japan and China after garnering attention for Japanese producer Satoru Iseki taking part in the overseas distribution and marketing for the film.

Lee has appeared in several dramas since her debut in 2001. Her most notable works include her role in "Lotus Flower Fairy" and rose to stardom in Korea and throughout Asia with "My Girl."

She recently played the lead female role alongside Korean actors Jang Hyuk and in the hit KBS historical drama " Oh Ji-hoThe Slave Hunters" which recorded viewership ratings in the high 30 percent range.

Filming for "Song of Springs" will begin in the summer and the premiere date has been set for around the summer of next year.

Reporter : Lucia Hong luciahong@
Editor : Jessica Kim jesskim@
<ⓒ10Asia All rights reserved>

Jo Yeo-jeong Hits Box-Office Gold with Daring Part

2010-06-12T03:41:00.000-07:00

"The Servant" released on June 2 is in many ways significant for the actress Jo Yeo-jeong. It is her first box office success since her debut in 1997, having drawn more than a million spectators in just a week since its release, and it includes the first serious bed scenes of her acting career.

"The Servant" is a modern interpretation with a satirical twist of the classic Korean folktale of Chun-hyang. It tells the story of Bang-ja, the servant of a young nobleman Mong-ryong, who becomes enamoured of a traditional entertainer or gisaeng being pursued by his master.

Jo plays Chun-hyang, the object of both men's attention. In the film she falls in love with Bang-ja, although she tries to capture Mong-ryong's heart to climb up the social ladder.

The daring scenes did not disturb her much. "I don't think the level of nudity in the film was all that excessive because it depicts a secretive love that could never come out," she says. "I looked a lot prettier than I do in reality." She adds she maintains her shape with yoga and that contributes to the scenes' success.

Jo says she learned something new and felt she was being reborn as an actress. She had perfect partnership with her university senior Kim Ju-hyeok, who plays Bang-ja.

Jo feels she is only at the start of her serious career. "It seems to me that the audience just started paying attention to me as an actress," she says.

source : Chosun Ilbo

Won Bin unveils photos from film "The Man From Nowhere"

2010-06-09T04:25:00.000-07:00

Korean actor Won Bin in a scene from film "The Man From Nowhere" [CJ Entertainment]

Top Korean actor Won Bin has unveiled pics from his upcoming film tentatively titled "The Man From Nowhere," which wrapped up shooting yesterday.

CJ Entertainment, which produced the film, released to the press several candid photos of the actor taken on the movie set, topless and sporting tight abs.

Won, who underwent rigorous workouts and a strict diet regimen for his role, shot his final scene yesterday which reportedly serves as a crucial turning point in the plot.

"Nowhere," directed by Lee Jeong-bum, is an action flick that tells the story of a lonely man (played by Won Bin) living in seclusion who comes out into the world again to save a young girl next door (played by actress Kim Sae-ron).

Won Bin debuted in 1997 with TV series "Propose" with his breakthrough role coming three years later in KBS drama "Autumn Fairy Tale", in which he co-starred with two other Hallyu stars Song Seung-heon and Song Hye-kyo.

He made his movie debut in "Guns & Talks" in 2001 and has not returned to television since. He was last seen in director Bong Joon-ho's critically acclaimed film "Mother" last year.

"Nowhere" opens in Korea in August.

Reporter : Ko Kyoung-seok kave@
Editor : Lynn Kim lynn2878@
<ⓒ10Asia All rights reserved>

The Old Garden [ Korean Movie 2006 ]

2010-05-30T05:03:00.000-07:00

Genre : Drama, Romance, Melodrama
Starring : Ji Jin-hee, Yeom Jeong-ah
Runtime :112 min.
Directed by : Im Sang-soo

Synopsis:

Hyun-woo steps out of prison after a 17-year sentence for his anti-government activities. During his long imprisonment, everything has changed even his fellow anti-government protesters have become mundane. His mother then tells him of the death of Yoon-hee, who harbored and loved him right before he was caught 17 years ago. To cherish memories with her, Hyun-woo goes back to the place where the two had spent a few months together like a couple of honeymooners. Reading through Yoon-hee’s diaries and letters, Hyun-woo discovers that she was the only one who remained loyal to him to the end. Because of her faith and love, the despair and loneliness that Hyun-woo felt after his imprisonment is slowly healed. He also discovers that Yoon-hee left him another gift behind – their daughter.
[source: http://www.koreanfilm.or.kr]

Gallery:

Park Young Ha To Star in Remake Drama of Movie ‘Tianmimi’

2010-05-29T07:29:00.000-07:00

Hallyu star Park Young Ha has been cast as the male lead in the remake drama of the Hong Kong movie ‘Tianmimi,’ the production company Verdi Media reported in the news on May 27.

According to a person in the production company, the drama “Tianmimi” will be made in collaboration with writer Oh Soo Yeon, who has written dramas such as “Winter Sonata” and “Autumn Story,” together with production director Jo Young Soo, who made the drama “Oh! Pil-seung, Bong Soon-Young.” As soon as the female lead is cast, it will begin filming from the end of July. The target date for airing will be around the end of this year and the broadcasting station has not yet been decided.

The melodrama movie “Tianmimi” was made in 1996 by director Kexin Chen, and actor Liming and actress Maggie Cheung played the main male and female leads. The movie was a great success in Asian countries and it ranked atop the rankings in Korea among movies that people want to watch again.

A person in the production company said, “As the movie ‘Tianmimi’ has already proven itself by its three billion movie fans in Asian countries, we will do our best to produce a good drama with a Hallyu star and production staff members to make another Hallyu drama.”
source: KBS Global

'Poetry' Wins Best Screenplay Award at Cannes

2010-05-24T07:21:00.000-07:00

South Korean director Lee Chang-dong's film "Poetry" has won the Award for Best Screenplay at the 63rd Cannes Film Festival.

Since its screening on Thursday, the film has received high praise for its theme and was also in the running for the festival’s Grand Prix Award.

The Palme d'Or top prize went to "Uncle Boonmee Who Can Recall His Past Lives" directed by Thailand's Apichatpong Weerasethakul. French film-maker Xavier Beauvois' "Of Gods and Men" took the runner-up Grand Prix Award and Mathieu Amalric won the Best Director Award for his film “On Tour.”

France's Juliette Binoche won the Best Actress Award and Spanish actor Javier Bardem and Italy's Elio Germano shared the Best Actor Award.

Another Korean film "Ha Ha Ha," by Hong Sang-soo, won the top prize at the sidebar competition, Un Certain Regard, on Saturday.

source : KBS World

Hyun Bin, Joo Jin-mo to star in film "Beautiful Us"

2010-05-16T02:06:00.000-07:00

Korean actors Hyun Bin and Joo Jin-mo have been cast in a film tentatively titled "Beautiful Us," according to an executive for movie's sales firm Miro Vision.

The executive, currently promoting the pic to foreign movie buyers at the Cannes film market in France, distributed booklets in which the two actors were introduced as the film's male leads.

"Us," a war drama to be filmed in 3D, will be helmed by noted Korean filmmaker Kwak Kyung-taek, who has directed both actors in previous works -- Hyun Bin in MBC TV series "Friend, Our Legend" (a small screen adaptation of Kwak's 2001 hit movie "Friend") and Joo in 2007 film "A Love."

The film is based on the Second Battle of Yeonpyeong which occurred in June 2002, when a North Korean patrol boat crossed the sea boundary line and engaged in a marine confrontation with South Korea.

"Us," to be produced on a 15 billion won budget, will go into shoot starting next month.

Hyun Bin, also the current boyfriend of top Korean actress Song Hye-kyo, has been a star in the Asian region since appearing in MBC's smash hit TV series "My Name is Kim Sam-soon in 2005.

Joo Jin-mo, who starred opposite actress Kim Ah-joong in film "200 Pounds Beauty," is set to appear in the Korean remake of John Woo's classic Hong Kong noir film "A Better Tomorrow" this year alongside Hallyu star Song Seung-heon.

Reporter : Ko Kyoung-seok kave@
Editor : Lynn Kim lynn2878@
<ⓒ10Asia All rights reserved>

Speedy Scandal [ Korean Movie 2008 ]

2010-05-16T01:44:00.000-07:00

Genre : Comedy
Starring : Cha Tae-hyun, Park Bo-yeong
Release date : December 3, 2008
Runtime :108 min.
Directed by : Kang Hyeong-cheol

Synopsis:

NAM Hyun-soo was once a popular idol star among teens and worshiped liked a god. Although he’s in his mid-thirties now, he’s still a sought-after celebrity and the host of a popular radio show. But one day a very young single mom named Jung-nam sends her stories to the radio show that Hyun-soo hosts. Her stories about her longing to meet her father whom she’s never seen before grips the nation and catapults the ratings to make it the most popular program. But to his surprise, Hyun-soo later confronts none other than Jung-nam, and her 7 year-old boy, Gi-dong. Jung-nam and Gi-dong invade Hyun-soo’s home and his radio station, claiming that Hyun-soo is her father. Hyun-soo does what he can to salvage his celebrity image.
[source: http://www.koreanfilm.or.kr]

Gallery:

Kwon Sang Woo: 'I Filmed Movie with Debut Mindset'

2010-05-12T19:43:00.000-07:00

"I filmed this movie with the mindset I had when I debuted,” actor Kwon Sang Woo said at the production presentation for the movie “Into the Gunfire,” which was held on May 10 at Imperial Palace Hotel in Gangnam-gu, Seoul. He added, “Thanks to the veteran actors Kim Seung Woo and Cha Seung Won, I could film this movie successfully.”

Kwon Sang Woo portrayed the protagonist Kap Cho, a student soldier fighting against North Korean soldiers. The movie tells the story of battles fought between 71 student soldiers and North Korean soldiers. During the Korean War, the army led by Kang Seok Dae (Kim Seung Woo) had been withdrawn from Pohang to defend the Nakdong River area and left only 71 student soldiers behind. Among the students, Jang Bum (T.O.P) was appointed as a company commander, but his troops periodically caused friction with other soldiers led by Kap Cho. Park Moo Rang (Cha Seung Won), a commander of North Korean soldiers who devastated the Youngduk region with his 766 guerrilla troops, disobeyed the Communist Party’s order to advance to the Nakdong River, instead secretly changing course into Pohang and ending up fighting with the student soldiers who were left behind.

Kwon Sang Woo said, “I felt comfortable and excited because I filmed the movie with only male actors. I felt like as if I had become a member of the Boy Scouts. I was especially happy because I worked with outstanding actors.”

He wore a school uniform again years after his movie “Once Upon A Time in High School (2004).” Kwon Sang Woo smiled, saying, “I was almost excluded from the cast members because I am too old.” He is 34 years old.

T.O.P, a member of the idol group “Big Bang,” debuted as a movie star with “Into the Gunfire” and said about the movie, “It was like I was going out to the playground for learning. Whenever I looked exhausted, other senior actors have given me great help. It was a good opportunity for me to become more mature through filming this movie.”

Actor Kim Seung Woo, who worked with T.O.P again after the drama “IRIS,” evaluated T.O.P’s acting by saying, “When I watched him, I thought, ‘He completely became the character Jang Bum that he plays.’ He did better than I expected.”

All cast members including Kwon Sang Woo, T.O.P, Cha Seung Won, and Kim Seung Woo agreed that the filming itself was very exciting and interesting, but enduring the cold weather was the most difficult part.

Director Lee Jae Han, who has directed movies such as “A Moment To Remember” and “Sayonara Itsuka,” directed the movie. Lee said, “I tried to focus on creating a balance while I made this movie. As it is a war movie, I wanted to film battle scenes.”

A blockbuster war movie funded with an 11.3 billion won investment, “Into the Gunfire” will be released on June 17.

source: KBS Global

Lee Min-ki tapped to play lead in new Yoon Je-kyun pic

2010-04-29T19:26:00.000-07:00

Korean model/actor Lee Min-ki [Asia Economic Daily]

Korean model and actor Lee Min-ki has been chosen to play the male lead in a new production by blockbuster director Yoon Je-kyun, according to the movie's producer JK Film on Thursday.

"We have finalized our selection and Lee Min-ki will play the lead for the new picture," Yoon, CEO of JK Film, told reporters on Tuesday of his choice for the film tentatively titled "Quick."

"Quick" is an action movie about motorcycle racing and will be helmed by director Jo Beom-goo, whose works include action comedy “Riverbank Legends” and “The Bad Utterances.”

Lee Min-ki made his debut in the entertainment industry in 2005 with his role in the drama “Be Strong, Geum Soon!” followed by appearing in the series "I Really Really Like You" and "Evasive Inquiry Agency."

He also stepped into the big screen with appearing in "A Good Day to Have an Affair" and in the Korean blockbuster "Haeundae," which was the highest grossing Korean film last year.

Reporter : Ko Kyoung-seok kave@
Editor : Lucia Hong luciahong@
<ⓒ10Asia All rights reserved>

Two Korean Films to Compete at Cannes

2010-04-27T22:07:00.000-07:00

Two starkly different Korean films will be vying for this year's Palme d'Or at the Cannes Film Festival.

The first is Im Sang-soo's "The Housemaid," a remake of a 1960 film of the same title by the late, legendary director Kim Ki-young. It tells the story of a married couple and their maid who has an affair with the husband, and it provokes suspense among the audience when the maid carries on as if nothing happened.

The movie stars Cannes Best Actress Award winner Jeon Do-yeon, who again uses her charms and acting skills to portray a stark picture of human greed and desire. It is the second film by Im to be showcased at Cannes, following his acclaimed comedy "The President's Last Bang" in 2005.

Another director shooting for the golden award is former Cannes jury member Lee Chang-dong whose latest work "Poetry" is about an aging woman who rediscovers the beauty of life.

The film brings one of Korea's most famous actresses back to the big screen with Yoon Jeong-hee in the role of a widow who starts to see the world anew through poetry. "Poetry is something that expresses feelings for you when you can't verbalize them any other way," the director said.

Two other Korean films will be showcased in non-competition categories in the world's oldest and most prestigious film festival, which kicks off in May.

Credit: englishnews@chosun.com

source : Chosun

Jeon Do-yeon Returns to Screen in Risque Role

2010-04-15T23:42:00.000-07:00

Cannes-award winning actress Jeon Do-yeon made a return to cinema with "The Housemaid" after more than two years of absence. Since her 2008 film "My Dear Enemy," Jeon took maternity leave from the film industry, but now she is ready to face the audience again with the erotic thriller to be released on May 13.

The film is a remake of 1960 film of the same title by the late director Kim Ki-young. In the press conference held on Tuesday, Jeon shared her story of how she had to endure two months of physically demanding action ranging from sex scenes to wire-stunt scenes.

"While shooting the film, I was reluctant to continue at times because of the nude scenes," Jeon says. "But my family gave me huge encouragement. My husband did not want me to change what roles I choose just because I'm married and cheered me on. I was very grateful for his encouragement and support."

Poster of The Housemaid

The new "Housemaid" is directed by Im Sang-soo, who is known for his unconventional portrayal of sex in films like "Tears," "Girls' Night Out," and "A Good Lawyer's Wife." In the film, according to Jeon, "There will be not only the joy of watching but also listening."

Im said, "The plot is the same as the original, but you'll be able to see a big difference in the depths of expressiveness of actors and images." He added, "It's my first time shooting a film with such a star-studded cast. That reflects how ambitious I was about this project. Enjoy watching it. I leave it to your judgment. I'd love to shock the audience with the film."

Meanwhile, Jeon will tread the red carpet again at this year's Cannes Film Festival on May 12 to 23 as "The Housemaid" has been invited to the main section.

Credit: englishnews@chosun.com

source : Chosun

Mother [ Korean Movie 2009 ]

2010-04-08T04:16:00.000-07:00

Genre : Drama
Starring : Kim Hye-ja, Won Bin
Release date : May 28, 2009
Runtime :128 min.
Directed by : Jo Geun-Sik

Synopsis:

Widowed for a long time, a mother lives alone with her only son. He is 28 years old, a shy and quiet young man. In the aftermath of a terrible murder, the woman’s hope- less, helpless son becomes the prime suspect. There is no real evidence against him, but the police throw groundless suspicion at him. Eager to close the case, the police are happy with their cursory investigation and arrest the boy. His defense attorney turns out to be in- competent and unreliable. Faced with no other choice, his mother gets involved, determined to prove her son’s innocence. [source: http://www.koreanfilm.or.kr]

Gallery:

Gong Yoo and Lim Soo-jung to star in new film "First Love"

2010-04-08T04:10:00.000-07:00

Korean actor Gong Yoo and actress Lim Soo-jung have been slated to star in a new film tentatively titled "First Love," according to their agency N.O.A Entertainment on Thursday.

N.O.A stated that the two actors were cast to play the lead roles in the musical-turned-movie, based on a comical story of a woman who during her trip to India re-encounters her first love and tries to see him again.

Lim, appearing in a romantic comedy pic for the first time, will be taking the role of woman who meets her first love and Gong Yoo the man who helps Lim's character find her love.

The original musical, which began its run in 2006, has been performed over 1,200 times on stage and is considered a hit in the local musical industry.

Lim, 30, made her debut in 1998 as a cover model for teenage magazines. She soon moved onto dramas and films, including her most notable roles in the hit KBS2 series "I'm Sorry, I Love You" (2004) and movies "Lump of Sugar" (2006) and "WOOCHI" (2009).

Gong Yoo, whose real name is Gong Ji-cheol, debuted in 2001 in KBS TV series "School 4" which was also Lim's small screen debut. He has appeared in more than a dozen dramas and films including "My Tutor Friend," "S Diary" and "She's On Duty."

He became a household name throughout Asia after his role in 2007 smash hit drama "The 1st Shop of Coffee Prince" with actress Yoon Eun-hye.

Reporter : Lim Hye-seon lhsro@asiae.co.kr
Editor : Lucia Hong luciahong@asiae.co.kr
<ⓒ10Asia All rights reserved>

Paju lead wins best actor at Las Palmas

2010-04-07T00:40:00.000-07:00

Korean actor LEE Seon-gyun picked up the best male actor award at the Las Palmas de Gran Canaria International Film Festival for his lead role in PARK Chan-ok’s Paju. The Spanish fest, which celebrates creative contemporary independent cinema, held its 11th edition March 12 – 20.

For actor LEE, the award is the first international recognition he has received, while the film continues to garner praise and prizes at film festivals around the globe. Paju picked up the NETPAC prize upon its premiere at Pusan Int’l Film Festival, opened the Int’l Film Festival Rotterdam and won a special Jury Prize at the Deauville Asian Film Festival in France.

LEE portrays an anguished man caught in a web of emotional ambiguities caused by the love he feels for his wife’s younger sister (played brilliantly by actress Seo Woo). The second feature by acclaimed female director PARK Chan-ok, Paju goes on to compete at the Tribeca Film Festival this month.

credit : Nigel D’Sa (KOFIC)

Jang Keun-suk to star in film "You're My Pet"

2010-04-07T00:31:00.000-07:00

Hallyu star Jang Keun-suk will be making a comeback to the big screen in a new film titled "You're My Pet", according to his agency Tree J. Company on Tuesday.

Tree J. announced in a press release that the actor has been cast as the male lead in "Pet", playing a promising classical ballet dancer who becomes a personal pet for a professional working woman.

"I wanted to play a cheerful character for my next role and I thought the film 'You're My Pet' is something that fits me incredibly well," the actor was quoted as saying about the new role. "Personally, I have high hopes for the movie because I believe I will be able to show a different side to myself through 'Pet'".

"Pet", based on a popular Japanese comic series by Yayoi Ogawa, is about a young single woman who invites a homeless man into her home to be her pet and the two gradually start to grow romantic feelings toward each other.

The award-winning comic series was also made into a Japanese television drama in 2003.

Jang, 23, has appeared in several notable television dramas and films including "Beethoven Virus" (MBC, 2008) and "The Case of Itaewon Homicide" (2009).

He became a phenomenon in Korea and throughout Asia after starring in the hit TV series "Minamishineyo" (SBS, 2009), in which he portrayed an eccentric lead singer of idol group A.N.JELL.

The actor, who is currently holding fan meetings in various Asian countries, is preparing to go into shoot for the film which is scheduled for local release in the second half of this year.

Reporter : Lynn Kim lynn2878@asiae.co.kr
Editor : Jessica Kim jesskim@asiae.co.kr
<ⓒ10Asia All rights reserved>

Kim Tae-hee, Lee Jun-ki to star in film "Grand Prix"

2010-03-17T04:11:00.000-07:00

Top Korean actors Lee Jun-ki and Kim Tae-hee are set to star in a new film titled "Grand Prix", according to their agencies JG Company and Luah Entertainment on Monday.

Both agencies reported that the two stars have been cast for the lead roles and are waiting to sign the final contract for the film.

Veteran Korean actors Park Geun-hyung and Ko Doo-sim are reportedly in talks to play supporting roles.

"Prix", a sequel to the 2006 film "Lump Sugar" starring Korean actress Lim Soo-jung, is a story about horse racing.

The pic will be helmed by Yang Yoon-ho, who previously directed "Libera Me" (2000), "Fighter in the Wind" (2004) and "Holiday" (2005).

The film, which starts shooting this month or in April, is scheduled for release later in the year around the Korean Thanksgiving break.

Kim, 29, rose to fame after appearing in the hit SBS TV series "Stairway to Heaven" in 2003 alongside Hallyu stars Kwon Sang-woo and Choi Ji-woo and starred in blockbuster drama "IRIS" opposite top Korean actor Lee Byung-hun last year.

She has also appeared in several movies including "The Restless" with actor (2006) and "Jung Woo-sungVenus and Mars" (2007) opposite Sul Kyung-gu.

Lee, 27, became a household name after appearing as a woman-like clown in the 2005 hit film "The King and the Clown" and most recently appeared in MBC TV series "Hero", where he portrayed a passionate magazine reporter.

He will returning to the big screen for the first time in three years with "Prix" after having last starred in the Korea-Japan co-production titled "Virgin Snow" in 2007.

Reporter : Ko Kyoung-seok kave@asiae.co.kr
Editor : Lynn Kim lynn2878@asiae.co.kr
<ⓒ10Asia All rights reserved>

Film Mother receives nominations at overseas film festivals

2010-03-06T20:54:00.000-08:00

Director Bong Joon-ho's movie “Mother” (2009) continues to receive favorable reviews at international festivals abroad.

A thriller about a mother's quest to free her handicapped son from a false charge of murder was recently awarded the Best East Meets West Cinema Award at the 25th Santa Barbara International Film Festival in the United States in mid-February.

The movie already won two other international awards last year: for the best screenplay in the Asia-Africa film category at the 6th Dubai International Festival (Dec. 9 - 16) in the United Arab Emirates and the Signis Grand Prix (granted by the World Catholic Association for Communication) at the Mar del Plata International Film Festival in Argentina (Nov. 7-15).

At the above-mentioned Argentine film festival, “Mother” was praised “For being a complete work, which explores what a mother is capable of doing when she is determined to protect her son. The director questions it, and he does it from an ethical place, with no Manichaeism and dogmas. From a formal point of view, it proposes a great richness of expressive resources of many different genres.”

In January this year the film was further lauded as the best picture of 2009 by the Korea Film Reporters Association. Actress Kim Hye-ja, who played the title role of the mother, received the Best Actress award.

“Mother” is currently waiting for the results of the U.S. Green Globe Film Awards, where it was nominated in six categories, including the Best Foreign Language Film. Under the theme “Asia,” the film was further nominated for Best Director, Best Actress, Best International Film, Best International Drama and Best International Thriller.

The Green Globe Film Awards has other Korean films nominated in its Asian section, including director Park Chan-wook's “The Thirst” in Asia's drama, film and thriller sections. In Asia's comedy section there's “Good Morning President” and “Scandal Makers /Overspeed Scandal,” and in Asia's action section “Haeundae” and “Take Off.” Another Korean movie, “Private Eye,” was also added to the Asian thriller category.

Actors Song Gang-ho, Ha Jung-woo, Kim Myung-min and actresses Ha Ji-won and Kim Ok-bin were nominated for the Asian actors.

Director Park's 2003 film “Old Boy” was nominated for Best International Film of the Decade in Asia. The results will be announced at the Westin Bonaventure Hotel in Los Angeles on Mar. 23.

Meanwhile, more awards may await “Mother” at the 34th Hong Kong International Film Festival (Mar. 21 – Apr. 6), where it was nominated in six categories: Best Director, Best Film, Best Actor, Best Actress, Best Screenwriter and Best Editor.

For director Bong, “Mother” is his fourth film, following “Barking Dogs Never Bite” (2000), “Memories of Murder” (2003) and “The Host” (2006), all of which received rave reviews in the past. Mother is set to be released throughout Asia and Europe in the first half of this year.

Credits to: Kim Hee-sung ( Korea.net Staff Writer)

Korean film "The Naked Kitchen" invited to Berlin film fest

2010-01-30T23:20:00.000-08:00

Korean film "The Naked Kitchen" has been invited to the 60th Berlin International Film Festival, according the movie's producer Soo Film on Wednesday.

"Kitchen" will be shown in the Culinary Cinema section -- a non-competitive category which recognizes films revolving around the themes of food and love, nature and the environment -- at the fest on February 18, Soo explained in a press release.

The film, helmed by director Hong Ji-young, portrays the love triangle which occurs in a restaurant kitchen between characters played by actors Shin Min-ah, Joo Ji-hoon and Kim Tae-woo.

Hong had written the film adaptation of "Antique," a novel by Japanese cartoonist Fumi Yoshinaga, which had also shown at the same category in Berlin last year.

The festival, which started in 1950, is considered one of the most prestigious film events in Europe, alongside Cannes, Venice and Rotterdam. The fest will be held from February 11 to 21 this year.

Reporter : Lucia Hong luciahong@asiae.co.kr
Editor : Jessica Kim jesskim@asiae.co.kr
<ⓒ10Asia All rights reserved>

Once In A Summer [ Korean Movie 2006 ]

2010-01-22T02:32:00.000-08:00

Genre : Drama, Romance
Starring : Lee Byung-Hun, Soo Ae
Release date : November 30, 2006
Runtime :121 min.
Directed by : Jo Geun-Sik

Synopsis:

In the summer of 1969, Yoon Suk-Young avoids his father by volunteering to work on a rural farm in Sunaeri. Having no interest for volunteer work, he spends most of his time alone, when he happens to meet the village librarian, Suh Jung-In, and falls in love. Jung-In, a bright and hard-working orphan, also becomes interested in return. Their love grows within the short period of his volunteer time, and they are soon faced with unforeseen circumstances of separation... Time passes and Yoon Suk-Young becomes a professor. He then goes with a writer and the PD of a TV program to Sunaeri to find his first love. However, the villagers refuse to talk about Suh Jung-In. The mysteries of the love story thicken as the movie moves forward.
[credit : http://english.visitkorea.or.kr]

Gallery:

Gang Dong-won, Song Hye-kyo start filming "Love"

2010-01-20T19:37:00.000-08:00

Korean actor Gang Dong-won [Chae Ki-won/10Asia]

Top Korean actors Gang Dong-won and Song Hye-kyo have started shooting their feature segment for the Asian omnibus pic "Camellia", according to the film's producer BAL CON on Wednesday.

The two actors started filming "Love For Sale" on Friday, playing former lovers who forget their memories about each which later leads them to a fatal destiny.

"Camellia" is an omnibus pic made up of three feature films directed by three Asian directors. Each episode will be set in the past, present and future of the city of Busan, Korea.

The first feature "Iron Pussy", which tells the story of Busan during the 1970s, will be directed by Thailand's Wisit Sasanatieng and star Korean actor Kim Min-jun and Thai-American actor Michael Shaowanasai.

Korean actor Sul Kyung-gu and Japan's Yositaka Yuriko will appear in the second segment, "Kamome", which is set in modern day Korea. It will be directed by Japanese filmmaker Yukisada Isao.

Set in the near future, "Love for Sale" is the final episode which will be helmed by Korean director Jang Joon-hwan. Jang won rave reviews for his directorial debut "Save the Green Planet!" in 2003.

Gang has been considered one of Korea's top heartthrobs since his appearance in the 2004 film "Romance of their Own". He most recently starred in comic fantasy flick "WOOCHI", which set a record for attracting the most number of viewers on its opening day and has been ranked at No.2 behind "Avatar" for four consecutive weeks. Gang has another movie coming out next month, titled "Sworn Brothers".

Korean actress Song Hye-kyo [Lee Won-woo/10Asia]

Actress Song Hye-kyo shot to fame in 2000 after starring in KBS TV series "Autumn Fairy Tale" alongside Hallyu stars Won Bin and Song Seung-hun. She garnered increasing popularity throughout Asia with her subsequent roles in hit dramas such as "All In" (SBS, 2003) and "Full House" (KBS, 2004).

Reporter : Lynn Kim lynn2878@asiae.co.kr
<ⓒ10Asia All rights reserved>

Lee Na-young Takes on Transgender Part

2010-01-16T23:40:00.000-08:00

Actress Lee Na-young is one of the most coveted models for advertisers along with fellow 30-something stars like Kim Hee-sun and Ko So-young. She has appeared in almost all major commercials for cosmetics, electronics, beverage, food, telecommunication, and construction companies, and she still has many advertisers wooing her. For her management agency, she is the beautiful goose that lays the golden eggs.

Over the 10-plus years of her acting career, Lee has shown different sides of herself in each eight film she starred in, including "Who R U?" (2002), "Please Teach Me English" (2003), "Someone Special" (2004), "Maundy Thursday" (2006), and "Dream" (2008). In her latest film, romantic comedy "Lady Daddy," Lee appears as a man. She is not a transvestite but a single, unmarried transgender woman who discovers she has a son from the time she was a man and must now live with him.

Lee had a lot of fun filming it, and seems quite impervious to her looks. Where does her confidence spring from? "None of the parts I've played in films were pretty. In fact, I get stressed out if I have to look pretty. I keep thinking, 'what if I don't?'" As for playing a man, "I've wanted to do a part like that for quite a long time. Some actresses have done it recently. I was especially impressed by Cate Blanchett's performance in 'I'm Not There,'" she said. "When I read the screenplay, I was worried that I might misrepresent the image of transgender people due to my insufficient knowledge, but I was attracted to the uniqueness of the material. I thought the theme would be more appealing and easier for the audience to understand when combined with comedy."

"Lady Daddy" will have to challenge huge blockbusters "Avatar" by James Cameron and "Woochi: The Taoist Wizard" by Choi Dong-hoon. Is Lee just unlucky in terms of box office success? "Someone Special" and "Who R U?" found moderate belated success only after the screening was finished. This time she also has a cold snap to contend with, which might keep people at home. But Lee is determined not to let that put her off.

credit: englishnews@chosun.com

source : Chosun

"Oldboy" selected top 100 films of the decade by The Guardian

2010-01-07T04:37:00.000-08:00

Korean film "Oldboy" has been selected as one of the top 100 films of the past decade -- from the year 2000 thru 2009 -- by U.K. daily newspaper The Guardian.

The Park Chan-wook-helmed pic was ranked at No. 38 on the "100 best films of the noughties" list by the Guardian. The top three movies on the list were "There Will Be Blood" (2007, starring Daniel Day-Lewis), "Borat: Cultural Learnings of America for Make Benefit Glorious Nation of Kazakhstan" (2006, starring Sacha Baron Cohen) and "Mulholland Drive" (2001, directed by David Lynch).

"Oldboy", which stars Korean actors Choi Min-sik and Yoo Ji-tae, is about a man who is locked in a hotel room for 15 years without knowing why. He plots revenge upon his release and finds himself trapped in conspiracy, violence and falling in love with an attractive young chef.

The movie has received high praises from critics since its release in 2003 and won the Grand Prix at the 2004 Cannes Film Festival.

Other Asian movies on the list were; Taiwan's "What Time Is It There?" (at No. 19, directed by Ming-liang Tsai), "One and a Two" (No. 22, Edward Yang), Japanese animation "Spirited Away" (No. 41, Hayao Miyazaki) and the Academy Award-winning film "Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon" (No. 45, Ang Lee).

Reporter : Ko Kyoung-seok kave@asiae.co.kr
Editor : Lynn Kim lynn2878@asiae.co.kr
<ⓒ10Asia All rights reserved>

My Dear Enemy [ Korean Movie 2008 ]

2009-12-28T05:57:00.000-08:00

Genre : Drama, Romance, Melodrama
Starring : Jeon Do-yeon, Ha Jung Woo
Release date : September 25, 2008
Runtime :123 min.
Directed by : Lee Yoon-ki

Synopsis:

Jobless and single in her thirties, Hee-soo is miserable. On one fine day, she sets out to find Byoung-woon, her ex-boyfriend. It is not love that brings them together but $1,000 Hee-soo had lent to Byoung-woon a year ago. Byoung-woon is also penniless but surprisingly happy for he knows the girls who are willing to give him money. Afraid Byoung-woon may run off before clearing his debt, Hee-soo follows him as he visits many girls to borrow money, so the two ex-love birds set out on a one day journey to collect money, and memory.

Gallery:

Park Chan-wook Named Director of the Year

2009-12-24T02:58:00.000-08:00

Park Chan-wook was named the best director of the year by his fellow film directors, who also picked actor Song Kang-ho and actress Kim Hye-ja as the year's best actors.

The 12th Directors' Cut Awards was held at CGV Apgujeong in Seoul on Monday. The winners were selected by votes from 238 directors who are members of the directors' network.

Park's latest film "Thirst" inspired hope in the discouraged Korean cinema community by winning the Jury Prize at the 62nd Cannes International Film Festival this year, the director's group said. "Park's films, which are always fresh and novel, are the most cinematic," it added. It is the fourth time that Park has received the award as he was previously honored for his films "Joint Security Area," "Sympathy for Mr. Vengeance," and "Oldboy."

Song won the best actor award for a fifth time, becoming the winningest actor in the history of the Directors' Cut Awards.

The awards for the best rookie actor and actress went to Kim Dong-wook of "Take Off" and Park Bo-young of "Scandal Maker." Korean-French Ounie Lecomte won the best new film director award for "A Brand New Life."

Yang Ik-june, director of "Breathless," received the award for the best independent film, and director Yoon Je-kyoon, who produced and directed the disaster blockbuster "Haeundae," won the award for the best producer. "Haeundae" drew the fourth largest audience in Korean film history.

The directors also awarded a tribute trophy to late actress Jang Jin-young, who died of stomach cancer in September.

Credit: englishnews@chosun.com

source : Chosun

'Woochi' Marks Birth of Korean Superhero

2009-12-21T00:44:00.000-08:00

He might be offended if you call him the Korean Harry Potter, and pull a Taoist magic trick on you.

Jeon U-chi's genealogy can be traced back to the Joseon Kingdom (1392-1910) but he comes to life onscreen, with a modern edge, as "Woochi'' ― an exciting new superhero everyone's been waiting for.

Novel character-driven films have recently made their mark in South Korean cinema such as "Private Eye'' starring an accidental Joseon-style Sherlock Holmes or "Hong's Family Business'' featuring modern-day descendents of the Korean Robin Hood, Hong Gil-dong.

Director Choi Dong-hoon, who demonstrated a knack for creating lively characters in "Tazza: The High Rollers,'' brings a superhero who, though quintessentially Korean, can inspire laughter and exhilarating adventure even in those who didn't grow up eating kimchi.

The movie takes viewers back 500 hundred years when a magic flute "manpasikjeon'' falls into that hands of evil goblins (which are tastefully rendered computer graphics, provided by the CGI talent behind local blockbusters including "The Host'' and "The Good The Bad The Weird.'')

A trio of Taoist wizards, who are more like the Three Stooges, seek the help of two leading ascetics, Cheonggwan (Baek Yoon-shik) and Hwadam ("The Chaser'' actor Kim Yoon-sik). They succeed in containing the goblins in a jar, like a genie in a lamp. They break the magic flute into two and each assume responsibility for one half so they don't succumb to the temptation of trying to possess it, sort of like "The Lord of the Rings.''

Woochi (played by actor Kang Dong-won) is the troublemaking disciple of Cheongwan who is more interested in showing off his magic tricks and becoming famous ― he is a contemporary of Hong Gil-dong, but the mischievous young man might become best friends with Will Smith's misunderstood superhero '"Hancock.''

The actor said he spent a good portion of the past two years suspended from wires; the sweat seems to have paid off as the pretty-faced Kang transforms into a most amiable bad boy ― so much so that it redeems his ill-suited appearance in Lee Myung-se's ambitious yet scatterbrained fantasy melodrama "M.''

Having mastered the art of transformation and invisibility, along with other Taoist tricks of playing with earth, wind, fire and water, Woochi basks in self-congratulatory glory of having pulled a big prank on the king. Hwadam and the wizards are summoned by the angry monarch to track down Woochi, who is in the meantime busy trying to seduce a beautiful widow (Lim Soo-jung).

Hwadam and the wizards arrive at Cheongwan's house, only to find that the master has been killed. Woochi and his sidekick Choraengi (a dog who wants to become human, played by funnyman Yoo Hae-jin), are framed for the murder and are doomed to a 500-year sentence inside a painting.

Half a millennium later, the wizards are living under a low profile as a Buddhist monk, a Catholic priest and a fortune teller, while Hwadam has long disappeared in order to polish his Taoist art.

When the goblins escape from their jars, however, the wizards are unable to find Hwadam and are thus forced to head to the local museum to conjur the rather sullen Woochi from the painting. They ask him to catch the goblins, promising him a promotion to the ranks of a true Taoist master in return.

Woochi and Choraengi are however more interested in exploring the glitz and glam of 21st-century technology and lifestyle, and are further distracted when they run into a woman who seems to be the reincarnation of Woochi's love interest from 500 years ago.

Meahwhile Hwadam reappears before the Taoist gang but seems more interested in stealing the other half of the magic flute in Woochi's possession.

In theaters Dec. 23. Distributed by CJ Entertainment.

credit to : Lee Hyo-won hyowlee@koreatimes.co.kr
source: koreatimes.co.kr

Kang Dong-won Makes Comeback

2009-12-21T00:04:00.000-08:00

Actor Kang Dong-won has made a comeback after a two-year absence, wearing an outfit that perfectly suits him. He plays a malicious taoist in the movie "The Taoist Wizard," fabulously portraying the classical-novel character and even reinterpreting him in a fresh and mischievous way. He looks nothing like his confused character in "M" (2007) or the sad death-row convict he portrayed in "Our Happy Time."

When we met with Kang on December 16 prior to the movie's opening, he said that he wanted to gain popularity with more people. He said, "It's an entertaining movie. I tried hard to become closer to viewers. But unfortunately the rhythm of my acting was too slow." Throughout the interview, Kang kept saying that he wanted to be more popular. He seemed upset about his previous movie, "M," which performed poorly at the box office. He deliberately chose an entertaining role this time and worked hard to make his character lovable. Kang's character is a skilled taoist and overflows with confidence. He easily makes fun of the king and loves women.

Kang used his own mischievousness to make his character all the more playful. It was his idea to create 10 one-of-a-kind copies of his character when fighting with ghosts. He said, "The script said that I just had 10 other copies of myself, but that sounded boring, so I gave each copy its own unique personality. If you watch closely, you will recognize their personalities. Each of them represents a certain trait of my character: one is brave, one is wayward, one is righteous, and so on. The last one of them is one who spits."

Kang also changed the originally haughty tone of his character into a flawed one, because he thought that a character with flaws was easier to approach for the public. Kang realizes that he has a hard-to-approach image because he rarely appears in public and is far from talkative. He said, "That's what people think about me. But once they get a chance to talk to me, their opinion changes. I can be playful, like my character, when I'm around my friends. After shooting this movie, I've become more talkative."

Director Choi Dong-hoon and martial arts director Chung Doo-hong lauded Kang for perfectly performing difficult wire actions, which he pulled off thanks to the training that he had received when shooting the movie "Duelist." He also learned how to dance for five months, which explains why his long legs and arms move so gracefully in action scenes.

The expression on Kang's face changed from playful to serious when he began talking about action scenes. He said, "I hate amusement park rides. When I happened to visit a famous bungee jumping place, people tried to make me bungee-jump, but I couldn't do it."

Though playing his character in "The Taoist Wizard" has taught him how to have fun with colleagues, Kang says the production was a difficult one for him. He said, "I had to jump off a six-story building 20 times and I still vividly remember that feeling of horror."

source: KBS Global

Thirst Wins Tenth Place in Time’s Top 10 Movies

2009-12-15T04:00:00.000-08:00

The Park Chan-wook film “Thirst,” winner of the Cannes International Film Festival's Jury Prize, has been ranked tenth in Time magazine’s Top 10 Movies of 2009 on December 8.

Time named “Thirst” its vampire movie of the year over New Moon. In particular, it had high praise for leading lady Kim Ok-vin, saying “She is Lady Chatterley and Lady Macbeth in one smoldering package.”

Time said Kim’s performance of the character, “who evolves from a creature of mute docility to one of desperate ardor, then explosive eroticism, then murderous intent,” was a new find.

“The Princess and the Frog” topped the list, followed by “Up” in second place. “Fantastic Mr. Fox” took third place, making the top three positions all animated films.

source: KBS World

"Oldboy" chosen as top 50 movies of the decade

2009-12-09T07:34:00.000-08:00

Korean film "Oldboy" has been selected as one the top 50 movies of the decade by U.S. magazine Time Out New York (TONY).

"Oldboy", directed by Park Chan-wook, was ranked at No. 27 on the top 50 list by TONY. The top three movies on the list were "Mulholland Drive" (2001, directed by David Lynch), "There Will Be Blood" (2007, Paul Thomas Anderson) and "Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind" (2004, Michel Gondry)

The Korean film has received high praises from critics since its release in 2003 and won the Grand Prix at the 2004 Cannes Film Festival.

Hollywood filmmaker Steven Speilberg and actor Will Smith were planning a remake of the film, but the project has been cancelled because production company DreamWorks were unable to obtain the rights to the film.

"Oldboy", which stars Korean actor Choi Min-sik, is about a man who is locked in a hotel room for 15 years without knowing why. He plots revenge upon his release and finds himself trapped in conspiracy, violence and falling in love with an attractive young chef.

Reporter : Park So-yoen muse@asiae.co.kr
Editor : Lynn Kim lynn2878@asiae.co.kr
<ⓒ10Asia All rights reserved>

Ji Jin-hee, Ha Jeong-woo film to open in Feb

2009-12-09T07:27:00.000-08:00

A mystery thriller film, starring two of top Korean actors Ji Jin-hee and Ha Jeong-woo, is set to open in February, according to a report on Tuesday.

The film, titled "Parallel Theory", is about two people in two different times -- in the past and the present -- living the same patterned lives.

In "Life", the character digs into the parallel theory after finding out that he has been living an identical life to another person from 30 years ago whose entire family was murdered. The movie was inspired by the parallels found between the lives of Abraham Lincoln and John F. Kennedy, who had uncanny similarities in their lives which were 100 years apart.

Ji Jin-hee plays the role of Kim Seok-hyun, who discovers the hidden conspiracy behind the parallel theory and tries to prevent the death of his daughter and himself. Ha Jeong-woo took on suspect, who follows the parallel theory and does everything the same as the murderer from 30 years ago.

"Life", Kwon Ho-young's directorial debut, is scheduled for release on February 18.

Reporter : Ko Kyoung-seok kave@asiae.co.kr
Editor : Lynn Kim lynn2878@asiae.co.kr
<ⓒ10Asia All rights reserved>

'Actresses' Is Sassy Mix of Fact, Fiction

2009-12-05T03:48:00.000-08:00

"There are three types of people: men, women and actresses,'' and "The Actresses'' brings together not one but six heroines.

The third of E J-yong's creations to be invited to the Berlin International Film Festival, "The Actresses'' tactfully endorses the movie's opening remark as it peeks into the glamorous ― and not-so-glamorous ― lives of screen beauties.

The unscripted, semi-improvisational film combines reality and fantasy, and the result is something sassy, perky and tastefully droll, though some of the in-jokes may get lost in translation for non-Korean viewers.

"But you've got to understand! They're actresses, they cannot wait!'' a staff member panics, as the jewelry that the actresses are supposed to wear in a Vogue magazine spread gets stuck in a snow storm en route from Japan.

It's Christmas Eve, and magazine crew members nervously drum fingers. They must deal with actresses who find themselves in an unprecedented situation: sharing the limelight with other household names.

Veteran actress Youn Yuh-jung, known for her endearing roles and less-than-perfect complexion, is irritated that she isn't fashionably late like the others, and cannot help feeling like a last-minute replacement for the glamour shoot.

Lee Mi-suk, though still considered a sex symbol at middle-age, speaks of her wish to retain her identity as a woman ― "Everyone ages but it's painful how actresses age under the public eye and are scrutinized for it,'' she says.

Hypersensitive hallyu "princess'' Choi Ji-woon meanwhile, in a spur of obsessive compulsion, scrubs her makeup desk before settling down. And of course her arrival is never complete without a retinue of Japanese fans and a personal masseuse.

Koh Hyun-jung, a 1990s icon who recently returned to screens after a high profile divorce, cannot hide her jealousy toward Choi. Being the hot-tempered and brutally honest tomboy she is rumored to be, Koh starts picking a fight with Choi. The two are seen bickering and squealing like schoolgirls and Choi leaves the set in a huff ― "This is totally like 'The Nightmare Before Christmas'!'' says the Vogue editor, who also stars as herself in the movie.

The youngest actresses ― twiggy former model Kim Min-hee and the more curvaceous Kim Ok-vin ― find it hard not to compare each other, especially when a male staff member says that men prefer curvy women.

E said he simply provided the basis for conflict and the leading ladies took it from there, improvising parts scene-by-scene.

The six ladies, varying in age from 20s to 60s, clearly assume exaggerated personas that reflect some degree of popular belief. And issues that are raised, such as the touchy politics of dress size, are rather expected.

But apart from capitalizing on the reputation of the cast, it also relies on "classic'' forms of "entertainment,'' such as cat fights and juicy gossip, to draw in viewers ― and it works surprisingly well as one is kept wondering whether the situation is real or not.

And it could not have been complete without the fine attention to minute detail and crafty editing E is known for.

The film will be featured in the Berlinale's non-competitive Panorama section, which screens 18 works that are considered to have both artistic and commercial merits. It hits local theaters Dec. 10. Distributed by Showbox/Mediaplex.

credit to: Lee Hyo-won (hyowlee@koreatimes.co.kr)
source: koreatimes.co.kr

'Mother' Wins Best Picture Award at Blue Dragon Film Awards

2009-12-05T03:14:00.000-08:00

Mother

Ha Ji-won

The movie "Mother" directed by Bong Jun-ho has won three awards at the 30th Blue Dragon Film Awards on December 2. "Mother" received the Best Picture, Best Supporting Actor and Best Lighting awards.

"Take Off," "Haeundae," "Thirst," "Speed Scandal" and "Breathless" each took two awards. Director Kim Yong-hwa received his second Best Director award.

Actor Kim Myung-min and actress Ha Ji-won, who played the leads in "Closer To Heaven," received the Best Actor and Best Actress awards, respectively.

Jin Ku ("Mother") was honored with the Best Supporting Actor award, while Kim Hae-sook ("Thirst") received the Best Supporting Actress award.

Yang Ik-jun of "Breathless" took the Best New Actor award. Kim Kkot-bi ("Breathless") and Park Bo-young ("Speed Scandal") won the Best New Actress awards.

Late actress Chang Jin-young, who died in September of cancer, was honored with the Special Award. Her father, Chang Kil-nam, received the award on her behalf.

The Popular Actor awards went to Lee Byung-hun, Ha Jung-woo, Ha Ji-won and Choi Kang-hee.

The jury was headed this year by Pusan International Film Festival Executive Director Kim Dong-ho. The award ceremony was hosted by Lee Bum-soo and Kim Hye-soo.

Following is the list of award-winners (film titles are indicated in parentheses)
Best Picture: "Mother"
Best Director: Kim Yong-hwa ("Take Off")
Best Actor: Kim Myung-min ("Closer To Heaven")
Best Actress: Ha Ji-won ("Closer To Heaven")
Best Supporting Actor: Jin Ku ("Mother")
Best Supporting Actress: Kim Hae-sook ("Thirst")
Best New Actor: Yang Ik-jun ("Breathless")
Best New Actress: Kim KKot-bi ("Breathless"), Park Bo-young ("Speed Scandal")
Best New Director: Kang Hyung-chul ("Speed Scandal")
Best Cinematography: Park Hyun-chul ("Take Off")
Best Lighting: Choi Chul-soo, Park Dong-soon ("Mother")
Best Music: Cho Young-wook ("Thirst")
Best Art: Cho Hwa-sung, Choi Hyun-seok ("Private Eye")
Best Engineer: Hans Ulrik, Chang Sung-ho, Kim Hee-dong ("Haeundae")
Best Screenplay: Lee Yong-joo ("Possessed")
Special Award: Chang Jin-young
Popular Actor: Lee Byung-hun, Ha Jung-woo, Ha Ji-won, Choi Kang-hee
Best Short Film: Kim Han-kyul ("Seeing")
Most Viewed Movie: "Haeundae"

Kim Hyun-joong to make film debut

2009-12-05T02:57:00.000-08:00

Kim Hyun-joong, leader of Korean boy band SS501, will soon make his big screen debut, according to a source on Monday.

An associate of the film said Kim has been picked to lead the cast of film "You're My Pet" opposite top actress Su-ae in the film directed by Kim Byung-gon.

The movie is based on Japanese TV series "Trams Like Us" broadcast on TBS in 2003, which itself was based on an original comic series by Yayoi Ogawa.

The movie is about unexpected love between a successful, smart and good-looking fashion magazine editor and a handsome guy who is adopted as a pet to the successful woman.

"We haven't completely finished working on the contract but we'll be done by the end of this week," said a representative from Kim's agency DSP Media.

As a member of the popular five-member K-pop band, Kim Hyun-joong also debuted as an actor early this year through hit KBS TV series "Boys Over Flowers".

Reporter : Lim Hye-seon lhsro@asiae.co.kr
Editor: Linda Kim lindakim@asiae.co.kr
<ⓒ10Asia All rights reserved>

Kwon Sang-woo starrer pic starts filming next week

2009-11-17T04:07:00.000-08:00

A new movie starring four of Korea's most popular celebrities -- namely Kwon Sang-woo, Kim Seung-woo, Cha Seung-won and T.O.P. - is set to go into shoot starting next week, according to the film's distributor on Monday.

The four actors will start filming for the blockbuster war flick, tentatively titled "Into The Fire" in English, on November 25, CJ Entertainment said in a press release.

The film, set for release in 2010, is about a fierce battle between 71 student soldiers and North Korean regular army soldiers during the Korean War.

"Fire", directed by Lee Jae-han, is a follow-up project by Taewon Entertainment, a production company that created the current blockbuster TV series "IRIS" starring Lee Byung-hun.

Lee directed the 2004 hit film "A Moment To Remember", which topped the box office in Korea and in Japan, and recently directed the Japanese movie "Sayonara itsuka", starring actress Nakayama Miho of "Love Letter".

Hallyu star Kwon has starred in several successful movies including "My Tutor Friend" in 2003 and "Love, So Divine" in 2004. His most famous role to date however, was in the 2003 TV series "Stairway to Heaven", which co-starred another Hallyu star Choi Ji-woo and became a hit throughout Asia.

Cha is a Korean model-turned-actor who has appeared in several hit films and two actors from hit TV drama "IRIS" -- Kim Seung-woo who is actress Kim Nam-joo's husband and T.O.P. of popular idol group Big Bang -- will also star in "Fire".

Reporter : Lynn Kim lynn2878@asiae.co.kr
<ⓒ10Asia All rights reserved>

Son Ye-jin: 'Ordinary Sinister Roles Lack Charm'

2009-11-17T03:55:00.000-08:00

Actress Son Ye-jin looked unusually upbeat when we met with her on November 12 prior to the opening of her new movie "Into The White Night." She was wearing a light and comfortable knit sweater, cute shirt and white skirt. Her radiant smile shined. She also talked quickly and easily. She looked nothing like her perfectly refined character Mi-ho from the movie.

Son said, "It's funny but I was scared of Mi-ho. I was scared of accepting her feelings and being swept up by them. I studied her for a long time while the movie was still in its planning stage, but I decided to 'be' Mi-ho only during filming because I was scared to accept her. It might look irresponsible, but I also need to live my life."

It is already Son's 10th big-screen role. She debuted as a movie actress by playing an innocent woman who falls in love for the first time. So far, she has appeared in "April Snow," "The Art of Seduction," "Open City" and "My Wife Got Married." Each time, she played fresh and provocative characters, displaying her charm to the fullest.

But playing Mi-ho, the daughter of a murderer, was not easy for her. She said, "I thought I wouldn't be nervous this time. But I was nervous during the screening for the first time because I felt big pressure. That was because I received a prestigious award for 'My Wife Got Married' last year, or maybe because this role is especially meaningful to me since it's my tenth big-screen role."

The movie begins by drawing comparisons between Mi-ho being together with her lover, and Yo-han (Ko Soo), who kills someone. At the moment when Mi-ho gets into a car accident, Yo-han is making love to another woman. That is also the reason the word "body exposure" appears alongside the movie title on portal sites. But Son said that this scene showed that Mi-ho and Yo-han were always mentally together, even though they did things separately.

To Son, the most difficult scene was the one where she appears nude and talks to her fiance's daughter. She said, "This scene shouldn't look vulgar and must appear painful. Will viewers understand Mi-ho, or will they think that this scene was just included in order to draw viewers?"
Read More at KBS Global

Baby and I [ Korean Movie 2008 ]

2009-11-15T02:27:00.000-08:00

Genre : Comedy, Drama
Starring : Jang Geun-suk, Kim Byeol
Release date : August 13, 2008
Runtime :96 min.
Directed by : Kim Jin-yeong

Synopsis:
Jun-su is a popular but rebellious 19-year-old. One day, his parents give him an ultimatum, leaving him alone in the house to rehabilitate his life. He doesn't mind the independence until a six-month-old baby Wooram is delivered to his doorstep. He has no choice but to care for Wooram and attend to his demand for breast milk. Where can he find a nanny?

Gallery:

'Paju' to Open Rocarno Film Festival

2009-11-15T01:51:00.000-08:00

"Paju," the second feature film by South Korean director Park Chan-ok, will open the upcoming International Film Festival in Rotterdam, the first Korean movie ever chosen to open the Dutch film fest, the event's Web site said Friday.

"Paju," which premiered at Korea's Pusan International Film Festival, has been praised as one of the most outstanding local creations of the year, drawing a realistic portrait of modern Korean society through the eyes of a young woman, according to Yonhap News Agency.

Director Park was the winner of the Tiger Award in the 2003 Rotterdam fest for her internationally-appraised debut "Jealousy Is My Middle Name."

Rutger Wolfson, director of the Dutch film event, called "Paju" a "triumph of resilience and a powerful female voice from Asia, ambitious and intimate at the same time."

The 39th Rotterdam festival will run Jan. 27-Feb. 7 next year in the Netherlands' port city.

The South Korean delegation that will introduce the film to Rotterdam's opening night audience will include director Park as well as lead actors Lee Sun-kyun and Seo Woo.

"Paju," set in the grim city where the film takes its name -- a longtime military garrison and now developing urban hub located close to the inter-Korean border -- was released locally on Oct. 29.

The movie drew some impressive reviews from overseas critics during the Pusan film fest with Screen International predicting the movie will "cement Park's reputation as one of Korea's most talented art-house directors," while Variety compared the film's handling of melodrama, action and mystery to a Bergmanesque thriller.

"Paju" won the NETPAC (Network for the Promotion of Asian Cinema) Award at the Pusan fest with jury members describing it as a "fine example of passionate, high-quality filmmaking."

source: The Korea Times

Song Kang-ho movie "Brothers" to open in Feb

2009-11-10T03:54:00.000-08:00

Film "Sworn Brothers", starring top Korean actors Song Kang-ho and Kang Dong-won, will be released next February, according to the film's producer Showbox on Tuesday.

The film had received much attention for casting two of Korea's leading actors and for being directed by newcomer Jang Hoon, who received the award for Best New Director at the Young-Pyung Film Festival last year for his directorial debut "Rough Cut".

Song will play a discharged National Intelligence Service agent while Kang an abandoned secret agent from North Korea in "Brothers", about two government secret agents meeting up again, six years after they first met in a downtown shoot-out.

Song Kang-ho is one of Korea's most successful actors who has starred in a handful of hit films including "Memories of Murder", "The Host" and "Thirst", which won the Jury Prize at Cannes earlier this year.

Kang Dong-won is one of the most promising actors of the younger generation, who has appeared in several notable movies including 2006's "Our Happy Time", 2004's "Romance of Their Own" and "Too Beautiful to Lie", which co-starred Hallyu star Kim Ha-neul.

TVXQ's Hero Debuts as Actor

2009-11-10T02:59:00.000-08:00

"Acting was a new experience for me. If I had more time, I would have done better," said Hero from the music group TVXQ at a news conference after the screening of the movie "Postman From Paradise" on November 9.

As the second telecinema production, which is produced both as a movie and TV drama, "Postman From Paradise" was directed by Lee Hyung-min, who also directed "Sorry, I Love You." The script was written by Eriko Kitakawa, who also wrote the Japanese TV drama "Long Vacation," starring Takuya Kimura.

"Postman From Paradise" is about a young entrepreneur who embarks on delivering letters to paradise from people who cannot forget the deceased. One day he meets a woman who joins his cause. Hero plays the postman Jae-jun. "It was difficult for me to portray feelings because it was my first time acting. We were able to complete the shoot without problems thanks to the director and Hyo-joo, who helped a lot," said Hero.

On the question whether the other TVXQ members supported him as an actor, Hero said, "When we were filming the movie, TVXQ was preparing for a comeback. My bandmates were too busy to provide me with advice. But U-Know and Chang-min, who are very interested in acting, encouraged me to do my best."

Actress Han Hyo-joo, who plays opposite Hero and portrays a woman who regains her ability to love after meeting Jae-jun, said that she decided to take this role because she was attracted to the telecinema genre. "In terms of the plot and emotions, this production is reminiscent of a fairy tale, but it strikes a chord in my heart more than a well-written novel or essay," said Han.

On the question whether acting opposite an idol singer was great pressure for her, Han said, "To be honest, it was big pressure but once we started shooting it all disappeared. Hero learns fast. He reacted very promptly to my acting. He has big potential as an actor."

source: KBS Global