The film 'Humint' is set in Vladivostok, where secrets and truths are submerged in the icy sea, and individuals with different motives clash. Jo In-sung plays the role of 'Chief Jo,' a black agent of the National Intelligence Service, showcasing his cold charisma, dazzling action, and chemistry synergy.
This marks Jo's third collaboration with director Ryoo Seung-wan, following 'Escape from Mogadishu' and 'Smugglers,' solidifying his position as Ryoo's 'persona.' Their deepened trust and synergy shine once again in 'Humint,' serving as a key driving force behind its box office success. Jo In-sung, known as the 'box office king' and a 'director's pick,' delivers a standout performance in 'Humint.'
In the film, Jo In-sung embodies Chief Jo, the ace agent of the National Intelligence Service, who successfully executes missions with sharp intuition and judgment even in dangerous situations. After losing an informant for the first time, Chief Jo struggles between cold missions and humane choices. Jo In-sung convincingly portrays the character's inner conflict with his unique style, drawing the audience in completely. He masterfully depicts a character torn between duty and empathy, leading the film's overall narrative and atmosphere with his restrained emotional performance. Jo In-sung breathes life into Chief Jo, a character who is cold on the outside but warm and human on the inside, marking a new iconic role in his career.
Renowned as an 'action master,' Jo In-sung sets a new standard for action acting in 'Humint.' Playing Chief Jo, a highly trained elite agent, Jo In-sung delivers elegant action befitting his character. He skillfully handles firearms, providing viewers with thrilling catharsis, and performs intense hand-to-hand combat, pouring his soul into the action scenes. His powerful and dynamic action, utilizing his long legs, fills the screen and is a highlight of 'Humint.' The action is not just about satisfying the audience's desire for catharsis; each movement conveys Chief Jo's narrative, enhancing audience immersion. Jo In-sung's realistic action performance has led to an increase in viewers expressing 'vicarious pain,' with reactions like "it makes the whole body tingle," driving word-of-mouth success.
Among the film's rave reviews, the 'relationship dynamics' aspect cannot be overlooked. At the center is Jo In-sung, who is noted for his ensemble performance, building distinct narratives with each character he encounters in the same space and situation. Jo In-sung develops a bond of trust and belief beyond that of an agent and informant with Chae Sun-hwa (played by Shin Se-kyung), a North Korean restaurant worker he meets while dispatched to Vladivostok to track international crime. He also leaves a deep impression with a heartwarming bromance that transcends ideology with Park Geon (played by Park Jung-min), a North Korean State Security Department officer involved in conflicts surrounding Chae Sun-hwa. Additionally, he showcases a reliable senior figure to junior NIS agent Lim Dae-ri (played by Jung Yoo-jin), displaying a range of charms. Reportedly, Jo In-sung was a 'true leader' during the challenging overseas filming of 'Humint,' inspiring both fellow actors and staff.
Meanwhile, Jo In-sung is set to appear in upcoming projects, including the 2026 film 'Hope' and the Netflix movie 'Possible Love.'
By Yeji Ryu, TenAsia Reporter ryuperstar@tenasia.co.kr