Netflix's series 'Genie, Make A Wish' has taken the world by storm, and writer Kim Eun-sook shares her insights in an exclusive Q&A. From memorable lines to behind-the-scenes stories about special guest appearances, Kim offers a glimpse into the making of the series.
According to Netflix Tudum's TOP 10 website (as of October 8), 'Genie, Make A Wish' garnered 4 million views within just three days of its release, ranking 5th in the global TOP 10 series (non-English) category. It has also maintained the number one spot in South Korea's TOP 10 series since its release and has been featured in the TOP 10 lists of 46 countries worldwide, including Saudi Arabia, UAE, Brazil, Czech Republic, Singapore, India, Hong Kong, Thailand, Egypt, and Morocco.
At the heart of the acclaim for 'Genie, Make A Wish' is writer Kim Eun-sook. Her unique world-building, engaging narrative, and diverse characters have captivated viewers, prompting multiple viewings. The series weaves a delightful romance with a profound message about 'human nature.' Kim Eun-sook explains, "Ga-young believes her nature is evil. However, having learned from her grandmother and the villagers who raised her with love, she strives to suppress her nature and make good choices throughout her life. So, is Ga-young a good person or a bad person? Through this question, I wanted to convey that what matters more than how one is born is the choices one makes in life, and that the essence of humanity lies in those choices. Ultimately, it is love between people that guides those choices in the right direction."
Here is the full Q&A with writer Kim Eun-sook.
Q. Memorable lines are a hallmark of Kim Eun-sook's works. What do you think will be the 'kick' line in this series?
You're asking me to pick? You're truly a devil (laughs). I believe memorable lines will be chosen by the viewers, but here are a few 'kick' lines I picked:
"What does this mean! What are you smitten by! What do you like about me!"
"Habibti (my love)."
"This serial kiss curse!"
"You're still truly terrible and adorable."
"If there's a next life, let's meet again."
"I can kill someone for you. Doesn't that count? With love?"
"How dare you! A human made of clay dares!"
Q. What is your favorite scene in 'Genie, Make A Wish'?
I love the 'Oasis scene' where Ga-young (played by Suzy) teaches Jin (played by Kim Woo-bin) to waltz with lines that don't match the beautiful situation, the 'Golden Rain Plaza scene' where Satan Jin wishes upon a human, and the 'Village People scene' where the villagers raise young Ga-young together. I also love the 'Study of Emotions scene' with Pan-geum and the 'Cheeky scene' where Suzy perfectly portrays a psychopath's first tears. My absolute favorite is the 'Hey, you psychopath!' scene at the end of episode 8.
Q. How was it working with actors Ahn Eun-jin and Noh Sang-hyun, besides Kim Woo-bin and Suzy?
Soo-hyun is an angel of death who despises humans and waits for the day to execute Jin by God's command. The phrase 'arrogant and holy' perfectly describes Soo-hyun, and Noh Sang-hyun embodied that. His face, which holds both good and evil, was mysterious, and he seamlessly transitioned between arrogance and holiness. He also portrayed the clumsy jealousy when confronting his brother Jin brilliantly.
The role of Pan-geum required two actors, as it involved portraying a 70-year-old grandmother's soul in a 20-year-old woman's body. Ahn Eun-jin followed Kim Mi-kyung's lead and completed the character of 20-year-old Pan-geum with love and perfection. She conveyed the grandmother's emotions, still worrying about her granddaughter, to the audience with a touching performance.
Q. Why did you choose Song Hye-kyo, Daniel Henney, and Kim Ji-hun for their special appearances as Genie, Kim Gae, and Knight, respectively?
In fact, I was the one who was chosen. It was challenging to ask these actors to appear in just a few scenes, as they had to travel a long way and read the entire script to understand the context. I am incredibly grateful that they agreed to participate. Song Hye-kyo was truly goddess-like, Daniel Henney was truly 'dog-like,' and Kim Ji-hun was truly like a search party member. Thanks to them, the crucial scenes gained a magical 'edge.'
Q. What message did you ultimately want to convey through 'Genie, Make A Wish'?
Ga-young believes her nature is evil. However, having learned from her grandmother and the villagers who raised her with love, she strives to suppress her nature and make good choices throughout her life. So, is Ga-young a good person or a bad person? Through this question, I wanted to convey that what matters more than how one is born is the choices one makes in life, and that the essence of humanity lies in those choices. Ultimately, it is love between people that guides those choices in the right direction.
Q. To the global audience who loves 'Genie, Make A Wish'
If you're reading this in your language, it's because I worked with Netflix, the best OTT platform airing in over 180 countries (laughs). Thank you sincerely for dedicating your precious time to 'Genie, Make A Wish.' While working, I wondered what your three wishes would be, living in a distant city with a different language and culture from my home in South Korea. I hope you enjoy the series and visit Korea during the cherry blossom season.
Kim Ji-won, TenAsia Reporter bella@tenasia.co.kr