Actor Kim Dong-wook recently shared his initial concerns about the bold themes in the film 'The Neighbors Upstairs.'
On the 1st, Kim Dong-wook, who stars in the movie 'The Neighbors Upstairs,' was interviewed at a café in Sogyeok-dong, Seoul.
'The Neighbors Upstairs' tells the story of a downstairs couple, played by Gong Hyo-jin and Kim Dong-wook, who endure noisy nights due to the upstairs couple, portrayed by Ha Jung-woo and Lee Ha-nee. The film unfolds as both couples share a dinner together. Ha Jung-woo not only stars in the film but also directs it. Kim Dong-wook plays Hyun-soo, the husband in a strained marriage with his wife, Im Jung-ah, played by Gong Hyo-jin.
Kim Dong-wook recalled when Ha Jung-woo first approached him with the project, saying, "I didn't know the film would have such themes. I only knew it was based on a Spanish original and that Jung-woo was directing and acting in it." He added, "When I first saw the original, the Spanish actors' natural performances made the themes feel less daunting." However, he noted, "The adapted script was a bit more intense. I wondered if it would be okay and if audiences could watch it comfortably."
The cast, including director Ha Jung-woo, discussed and adjusted the film's intensity. Kim Dong-wook mentioned, "Even Hyo-jin asked, 'Is this okay?' We frequently questioned if the level was appropriate. We adjusted during script readings and rehearsals, especially during the readings, to ensure it wouldn't overwhelm the audience. The pre-production work was thorough."
Kim Dong-wook's character, Hyun-soo, is more grounded compared to others. While Kim Sun-sang (Ha Jung-woo) and Soo-kyung (Lee Ha-nee) casually discuss intimate topics, Hyun-soo often reacts strongly, sometimes interrupting the conversation. Kim Dong-wook shared, "I thought a lot about how to portray the character's tone." He explained, "Audiences will understand the film's tone, but Hyun-soo's realistic reactions to Kim Sun-sang and Soo-kyung's 'humor' might disrupt the viewing experience. I was concerned about Hyun-soo being perceived as overly sensitive or sharp. I discussed extensively with the director on how to express this."
In real life, Kim Dong-wook enjoys a happy newlywed life, contrasting with his character's cold marriage. He stated, "It's rare for an actor's personal life to align with their role. My current situation doesn't make it harder or easier. I believe it shouldn't significantly affect my performance. If there are aspects I can draw from, I will, but if not, it doesn't hinder me."
'The Neighbors Upstairs' is set to release on the 3rd.
By Ji-won Kim, TenAsia Reporter bella@tenasia.co.kr