Director Ryu Seung-wan expressed his trust in actors Park Jung-min and Jo In-sung for the film 'Humint'.
On the 20th, at a café in Anguk-dong, Seoul, director Ryu Seung-wan discussed his latest film 'Humint'.
'Humint' is a story set in Vladivostok, where secrets and truths are submerged in the icy sea, and individuals with different motives clash. In this project, director Ryu made a bold choice by assigning the melodramatic narrative to Park Jung-min instead of Jo In-sung, challenging existing images.
Director Ryu revealed, "There was an intention of creating a twist." He explained, "Having Jo In-sung take on a melodramatic role would have been too predictable. Over the past few years of working together, I've noticed Jo In-sung becoming more solid. I believe he now has the depth to perform with subtlety."
He continued, "Jo In-sung was aware that the script didn't offer much stimulation. He recognized that he wasn't the pillar but the foundation, allowing other actors to shine more." He added, "Even Park Jung-min didn't expect such a strong reaction to his melodramatic narrative. Neither did I."
Park Jung-min showcased a different side of himself not only through melodrama but also with action scenes. When asked about his secret to unlocking an actor's potential, director Ryu laughed and said, "I constantly gaslight the actors, telling them, 'You're the only one in the world who can do this.'" He added, "When they succeed, even they are surprised."
There was a scene during filming that Park Jung-min found intimidating. Director Ryu shared, "There was a scene where he had to climb an exterior staircase, which was actually very high. Park Jung-min is not one to easily say he can't do something, but he told the assistant director, 'Hyung, I really can't do this.'" However, Ryu clarified that he wasn't aware of this during filming, saying, "I found out later. I'm not that heartless," he laughed.
By Kim Ji-won, TenAsia Reporter bella@tenasia.co.kr