The First Ride: A Comedy of Friendship and Nostalgia Set to Hit Theaters

The much-anticipated film 'The First Ride' is set to hit theaters, showcasing the chemistry between stars Kang Ha-neul, Kim Young-kwang, Kang Young-suk, and Cha Eun-woo, despite Cha currently serving in the military. Han Seon-hwa adds a comedic touch to the ensemble.

On the 22nd, a press screening was held at CGV Yongsan I'Park Mall in Seoul, attended by director Nam Dae-joong and actors Kang Ha-neul, Kim Young-kwang, Kang Young-suk, and Han Seon-hwa.

'The First Ride' is a comedy about friends of 24 years embarking on their first overseas trip. Director Nam Dae-joong, known for his comedic works like 'Love Reset' and 'Homme Fatale,' shared, "I've always created comedies. I wrote and planned 'The First Ride' before 'Love Reset,' but due to the pandemic, the release order changed. I'm thrilled to finally present it to audiences."

Regarding the film's concept, Nam explained, "The movie includes the line 'next time,' which often lacks a definitive answer. It encourages living joyfully in the present with friends and family. I wanted to convey comfort to those left behind, which inspired the script."

Cha Eun-woo, who plays aspiring DJ Yeon-min, couldn't attend due to his military service. Kang Ha-neul expressed, "We know he's working hard. Eun-woo, we'll promote the movie well. Hope you get to see it during your leave. It's as fun as we intended. See you soon, fighting!" Kim Young-kwang added, "It's a shame we can't promote together. Hope to see you soon." Kang Young-suk humorously noted, "We'll see each other soon. Aren't you jealous? Your 100-day leave is coming up, so please reach out." Director Nam added, "It would have been great to watch it together, but I hope he sees it during his leave, even if he has to pay for it himself."

Cha Eun-woo also provided the film's narration. Director Nam shared, "Due to military obligations, we had to record quickly. After filming, we showed him a rough cut and asked him to narrate naturally, as if talking to friends."

Kang Ha-neul plays Tae-jung, a legislative aide who once aced the college entrance exam. Reuniting with Director Nam after 'Love Reset,' Kang said, "Working with him is fun and meaningful. There's a lot of humor, and I can express my opinions clearly. The script is strong, but Nam's ability to communicate is his greatest strength. I was excited to work with him again."

At 35, Kang Ha-neul had to portray a teenager. He explained, "I tried to embody a teenager. I wore makeup for school scenes and went without it for scenes in my 30s. It was intentional to show a contrast between youthful skin and a more worn appearance."

Kim Young-kwang plays Do-jin, an aspiring basketball player. He proudly shared, "The chemistry among the cast was natural and fun."

Describing his character, Kim said, "Do-jin has a subtle madness. I aimed to portray his unique traits without overdoing it, ensuring they were believable."

Kang Young-suk plays Geum-bok, who is considering becoming a monk like his mother. Reflecting on playing a teenager, he humorously remarked, "I thought appearing with these guys would make me look like a high schooler. Plus, I had a bowl cut."

Han Seon-hwa plays Ok-shim, who is devoted to Tae-jung. She shared, "Filming was enjoyable. I grew fond of the 'oppa' (older brothers). Aren't they lovable?" She added, "I'm a romantic at heart, like Ok-shim, so I quickly related to her."

Han Seon-hwa also shared her thoughts on the film, saying, "Everyone has childhood and school memories, and we form various relationships in life. I hope audiences find relatable moments in our film. I believe parents and children alike will find something meaningful. I hope many people watch and enjoy it."

The cast humorously apologized for their student portrayals. Kang Ha-neul joked, "If real high schoolers were in the scene, it might have felt awkward, but since it was just us, it seemed okay. I do think I'm past the age for school uniforms." Kim Young-kwang added, "I'll refrain in the future," while Kang Young-suk humorously apologized again.

'The First Ride' is set to release on the 29th.

Reported by Kim Ji-won, TenAsia bella@tenasia.co.kr