Actors Turn Directors: The Challenges and Triumphs of Transitioning Behind the Camera

More actors are stepping behind the camera, driven by a desire to view the world from a creator's perspective rather than just being in front of it. However, enthusiasm alone doesn't guarantee success. Directing is a distinct field, and without adequate planning and preparation, an actor's attempt at directing can highlight their limitations.

Jang Dong-yoon's directorial debut, 'Nuruuk,' released on the 15th, exemplifies the challenges actors face when transitioning to directing. Despite the film's artistic intentions, it struggles with smooth transitions, editing, and narrative delivery. The film's symbolism is apparent, but its persuasive delivery to the audience falls short, leading to critiques about its directorial execution.

Jung Woo-sung's debut feature, 'Protector' (2023), is another example often cited for showcasing the limitations of actor-turned-directors. While the action sequences were visually engaging, the narrative was criticized as clichéd, and the emotional depth was hard to connect with. The film's box office performance, with only about 120,000 viewers, underscores that star power alone doesn't ensure directorial credibility.

There are success stories, too. Lee Jung-jae's debut, 'Hunt' (2022), was invited to the Cannes Film Festival's Midnight Screening and won the Best New Director award at the 43rd Blue Dragon Film Awards. His choice of a popular espionage action genre, combined with strong casting and solid execution, earned him praise for a successful directorial debut. Similarly, Kim Yoon-seok demonstrated a different, nuanced directorial style with 'Another Child' (2019), earning recognition for his potential as a director.

Some actors continue to build their directorial portfolios, like Ha Jung-woo, who has directed films such as 'Fasten Your Seatbelt,' 'Chronicle of a Blood Merchant,' 'Lobby,' and 'The Neighbors Upstairs.' While not all his films have been box office hits, his efforts to establish a unique directorial voice are ongoing, gradually finding a balance between experimental and mainstream appeal.

Why do actors take the risk of directing despite potential failures? The primary reason is creative control. Directing allows actors, who are often in a position of being chosen, to create their own narratives and worlds.

There's also the aspect of career expansion. Unlike actors, whose roles can be limited by age and image, directors can have longer careers if they possess the vision and skill. Leveraging their fame and experience, actors strategically build a directorial portfolio.

In terms of investment and production, actor-directors often have an advantage. Their industry connections and fame can aid in casting and securing funding. The label 'directed by a star actor' itself can be a marketing point, though it can also lower the barrier to entry for directing.

Actor-directors often star in their own films, which allows them to best realize their vision and performance. However, this can also lead to challenges in maintaining objectivity. An industry insider noted, "Actor-directors have a high understanding of the set, but often struggle with objective self-assessment. A clear judgment between 'what they want to do' and 'what they can do' is necessary."

Directing is a double-edged sword for actors. While their name can attract funding and attention, the audience ultimately judges the film on its directorial merit. The fact that star power doesn't guarantee quality has been proven by numerous precedents.

On the 22nd, another actor will debut as a director. Jung Woo will present 'Jjangu,' a sequel to 'Wind' (2009), which follows an aspiring actor's journey. Jung Woo co-directed with Oh Seong-ho, sharing the burden of solo directing. Given the strong fan base of 'Wind,' known as the 'unofficial ten-million movie,' it remains to be seen whether 'Jjangu' will successfully expand on its predecessor's nostalgia or rely on its legacy. Ultimately, the film's quality will determine its success.

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