Namkoong Min Returns to SBS with 'Our Movie' After Three Years: Can He Overcome Past Disappointments?

Actor Namkoong Min makes a much-anticipated return to SBS, the network that awarded him his first major acting accolade but also left him with the bittersweet memory of an early series termination. Following the phenomenal success of MBC's 'Lovers,' Namkoong Min is once again diving into the melodrama genre with SBS's 'Our Movie,' raising questions about whether he can move past the disappointment of 'One Dollar Lawyer.'

Namkoong Min will grace the small screen again on the 13th with the premiere of SBS's new Friday-Saturday drama 'Our Movie.' The series tells the story of a film director, Lee Je-ha (played by Namkoong Min), who has no future projects, and an actress, Lee Da-eum (played by Jeon Yeo-bin), who lives as if today is her last. Namkoong Min takes on the role of Lee Je-ha, a genius director struggling with a sophomore slump despite being in the shadow of his legendary filmmaker father.

Namkoong Min has solidified his status as a leading actor with consecutive hits like 'Stove League' (2020), 'The Veil' (2021), and 'Lovers' (2023), earning top awards from both SBS and MBC. 'Lovers,' in particular, gained massive attention for his on-screen chemistry with Ahn Eun-jin.

Expectations are high for 'Our Movie,' Namkoong Min's latest project. However, his previous experience with SBS's 'One Dollar Lawyer' remains a sore point. Despite achieving a peak viewership rating of 15.2%, the series was abruptly cut from 14 to 12 episodes.

The latter part of 'One Dollar Lawyer' faced frequent preemptions, airing only once a week from episode 9 without any clear reason, leading to speculation about conflicts between the writer and producers. SBS dismissed these rumors as unfounded, attributing the early conclusion to a desire for a faster-paced narrative. However, the series was criticized for its awkward and rushed storytelling.

Known for his perfectionist tendencies, the premature end of 'One Dollar Lawyer' was a significant blow to Namkoong Min. His return to SBS after three years has thus garnered considerable attention. Initially slated for tvN, 'Our Movie' eventually found its home at SBS.

The press conference for 'Our Movie' was held at CGV Yongsan I'Park Mall, rather than the usual SBS Hall, to align with the drama's film-centric theme.

When asked about his return to SBS after three years, Namkoong Min modestly stated, "Rather than having a special resolve, I just did my best as always to leave no regrets." He humorously added, "I get along well with other networks too," but concluded with confidence, "Everyone, I'm back at SBS after three years. I'm confident." All eyes are on the journey of 'Our Movie.'

By Taeyuna, TenAsia Reporter youyou@tenasia.co.kr