Director Ryoo Seung-wan has expressed his affection for the actors who have been part of the 'Veteran' series.
On the 11th, Director Ryoo Seung-wan of the movie 'Veteran 2' was interviewed at a cafe in Samcheong-dong, Seoul.
'Veteran 2' is an action crime investigation drama where veteran detective Seo Do-cheol (played by Hwang Jung-min) of the violent crime investigation team is joined by rookie detective Park Sun-woo (played by Jung Hae-in) as they chase a notorious serial killer.
Hwang Jung-min plays the role of Seo Do-cheol, a rough but passionate veteran detective in the violent crime investigation team. Jung Hae-in appears as rookie detective Park Sun-woo, who joins the team after catching Seo Do-cheol's eye.
The second installment features the same detectives from the first movie. Despite the nine-year gap, the return of the same actors adds to the excitement.
Director Ryoo mentioned his fondness for the 'Lethal Weapon' series, saying, "In the credits, you see photos of the crew who have been together since the first film. I find that touching. Watching people live their lives together within a film community while making a series is more moving than any great movie ending." He added, "When I decided to make a series, I wanted to minimize changes among the actors and staff who had been with me. I hoped the team from the first 'Veteran' would be part of the sequel." He continued, "Some actors were actively working, but actor Kim Si-hoo had left the industry. Yet, everyone agreed to join without hesitation. It was like, 'Of course, we have to do this.' They didn't even show much excitement, as if it was a given, like receiving a payout on a due date."
When asked, 'What if Hwang Jung-min had declined?' Director Ryoo replied, "That would be the end." He emphasized, "We could do a spin-off, but Hwang Jung-min is indispensable. Hwang Jung-min is Seo Do-cheol." He jokingly added, "If I had known this, I would have developed other team members more."
'Veteran 2' is set to be released on the 13th.
By Kim Ji-won, TenAsia Reporter bella@tenasia.co.kr