Director Kim Byung-woo of the film 'Omniscient Reader's Viewpoint' (hereafter 'ORV') expressed his gratitude for the anticipation and concerns surrounding the movie, viewing them as expressions of interest.
Recently, at a café in Samcheong-dong, Seoul, director Kim Byung-woo discussed the upcoming film 'ORV'.
'ORV' is a fantasy action film that depicts the events that unfold when the world of a novel, which had been serialized for over a decade, becomes reality on the day it concludes. The original web novel of the same name is a mega-hit, having amassed over 300 million views.
Given the strong fanbase of the original work, there have been both expectations and concerns regarding the 'ORV' film. Director Kim stated, "Having people interested is much better and more appreciated than having them unaware of our film. This was something I anticipated when I decided to take on this project." He added, "I was cautious. Producer Won Dong-yeon also advised me to be meticulous and attentive, which I took to heart."
It reportedly took nearly two years from the initial discussion of the film adaptation to the decision to proceed after reading the original web novel. Kim shared, "It was fun and fresh, but I couldn't quite grasp how to create it. I used character narration in the film, which was something I originally avoided. I wondered if audiences would easily understand elements like the game status window depicted in the film. Although it is a fantasy action film, it blends multiple genres. I pondered for a long time on how to make it enjoyable for those unfamiliar with the original work. It took about two years to gain that confidence. Interestingly, the scriptwriting took less than a year."
Regarding the decisive moment for his commitment, he said, "I thought it could be an enjoyable film if the characters could be utilized more fully. Initially, I was focused on 'how to condense the original novel,' but I returned to fundamental questions like 'why do people watch movies?' and 'don't people want to see this?' I realized that the difference between the novel and the film is just the medium." He also commented on the appeal of the original work, "I am more immersed in experiential and participatory content. From the title 'Omniscient Reader's Viewpoint,' it declares itself as such content from the first page. I liked the feeling of being immersed in the work as if embodying the character Kim Dok-ja. I also enjoyed the aspect of forming a team with Kim Dok-ja and others. The various questions Kim Dok-ja poses made me reflect on myself. In that sense, it felt like participatory content."
'ORV' is set to be released on the 23rd.
By Ji-won Kim, TenAsia Reporter bella@tenasia.co.kr