Lee Jung-Jae 이정재 [Movie “Hunt” | Upcoming: Star Wars series “The Acolyte” (Disney+)]

[rubie]

December 15, 2019

 

Actor Lee Byung-hun Posted A Photo With Good Friends Lee Jung-jae And Jang Dong-gun

 

BY Staff Reporter | KDramaStars

Lee Byung-hun posted a black and white photo on his Instagram with the caption "good old friends" on December 14th.

 

The three actors smiled brightly while Dong-gun makes a playful V sign with his fingers. Lee Byung Hun, Jang Dong Gun and Lee Jung Jae have been friends since the 90s. They are also well-known as three of Korea's most attractive actors.

 

Meanwhile, Lee Byung-hun is about to release the movie "Ashfall" on the 19th, and Jang Dong-gun will host JTBC's educational program "Jang Dong-gun's Back to the Books." On the other hand, Lee Jung-jae's most recent drama "Chief Of Staff Season 2" just ended last December 10.

[rubie]

March 11, 2020

 

Actor Lee Jung-jae to star in Netflix thriller drama 'Round Six'

Park Sae-jin Reporter | AJU Business Daily

 

[Courtesy of CJ Entertainment]

 

SEOUL -- Lee Jung-jae, one of South Korea's favorite actors, will play the main role in "Round Six," a Netflix thriller drama series scheduled for release this year.

 

Netflix, the world's largest over-the-top (OTT) video-on-demand (VOD) service, said Wednesday that the 47-year-old would star in Round Six, directed by park Dong-hyuk who created the 2014 comedy film "Miss Granny." This is the first time for Lee to play a role in a Netflix Original drama.

 

Round Six, also known as "Squid Games," depicts a story about a group of contestants competing to win in a survival game and grab a 45.6 billion won ($38.2 million) prize money. The name came from the shape of the game ground that consists of a triangle, square and circle.

 

To capture global viewers who favor South Korean drama content, Netflix has launched a variety of K-dramas including "Kingdom" and "My Holo Love" as its original content.

 

Other than Round Six, Netflix plans to release a handful of K-drama content this year. The most anticipated series is the second season of Kingdom to be released on March 13. South Korean drama creators have joined Netflix to provide content globally. 

[Helena]

https://about.netflix.com/en/news/netflix-confirms-casting-of-lee-jung-jae-and-park-hae-soo-for-new-original-series-round-six
NETFLIX CONFIRMS CASTING OF LEE JUNG-JAE AND PARK HAE-SOO FOR NEW ORIGINAL SERIES ROUND SIX

Minji Kang (mkang@netflix.com) | 10 March 2020

SEOUL, March 11, 2020 - Netflix Inc., the world’s leading streaming entertainment service, announced that the casting of Lee Jung-jae and Park Hae-soo in lead roles has been confirmed for Round Six, an original series to be directed by Hwang Dong-hyuk, whose other works include The Fortress, Miss Granny and Silenced.

Round Six depicts a story of people who decide to become the players of a mysterious survival game that has a whopping 40-million-dollar prize at stake. Gi-hun, played by Lee Jung-jae, seems defeated by life after being fired from his job. He decides to join the survival game to win prize money. Sang-woo, played by Park Hae-soo, is Gi-hun’s childhood friend and he also joins the game as he gets in trouble at work despite all the hard work he has done to be where he is at now.

Lee Jung-jae is one of Korea’s most well-known film and television actors. He has performed in such popular films and TV dramas as Along with the Gods series, Assassination, The Thieves, Svaha: The Sixth Finger, New World and Chief of Staff.

Park Hae-soo who made a name for himself in Prison Playbook, is also well known for his recent film Time to Hunt and the Netflix original anthology series Persona.

The literal translation of Round Six’s Korean title is ‘Squid Game’ (오징어 게임), which is the street game Gi-hun and Sang-woo played together when they were young. It’s quite a physical game that only ends when there’s a final winner, much like the survival game they play now. It’s named as such because players are to draw different geometric shapes on the ground, which, as a whole, look like a squid.

Round Six will premiere globally, only on Netflix.

About Netflix
Netflix is the world's leading streaming entertainment service with over 167 million paid memberships in over 190 countries enjoying TV series, documentaries and feature films across a wide variety of genres and languages. Members can watch as much as they want, anytime, anywhere, on any internet-connected screen. Members can play, pause and resume watching, all without commercials or commitments.

L to R | Lee Jung-jae, Park Hae-soo [Photo by ARTISTCOMPANY, BH Entertainment]

 

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http://www.koreaherald.com/view.php?ud=20200601000717

 

Big-name actors coming to big screen in June

 

By Choi Ji-won | June 1, 2020

 

“Deliver Us From Evil” (CJ Entertainment)

 

With a series of films confirming summer release dates amid the prolonged novel coronavirus pandemic, some big-name actors are set to return to big screen in the coming month.

Film distributor Next Entertainment World on Monday confirmed that highly-anticipated zombie flick “Peninsula” would hit local theaters in June, featuring veteran actors Gang Dong-won and Lee Jung-hyun.

A sequel to the 2016 smash-hit thriller “Train to Busan” by director Yeon Sang-ho, the film takes place on the Korean Peninsula, which has been left in ruins following the outbreak of a zombie apocalypse four years back.

In the film, Gang takes up the role of Jung-seok, a survivor who escapes the worst but is sent back to the peninsula on a mission to bring out an unidentified truck. Jung-seok and his team are faced by not only zombies, but the survivors in the Army Unit 631 who have dehumanized amid the madness and confusion. Actress Lee stars as another survivor, Min-jung, who saves the lives of Jung-suk and his team from a deadly attack by zombies.

 

Spoiler

“Peninsula” (NEW)

 

Meanwhile, Hwang Jung-min and Lee Jung-jae will be teaming up in hardboiled action flick “Deliver Us From Evil.” The two actors are reuniting seven years after appearing together in the crime noir “New World” in 2013. 

Also set for release in June, the film follows around the chase between Hwang and Lee, who respectively take up the roles of hitman In-nam and his chaser Ray, nicknamed “butcher” for his ruthlessness. Ray tracks down In-nam to take revenge for his brother’s death, who he believes was murdered by In-nam.

Aspiring actor Park Jung-min, who featured in 2019 horror film “Savaha: The Sixth Finger” with Lee, is also among the lead cast of “Deliver Us From Evil.”

The film is helmed by writer-director Hong Won-chan, who was officially invited to the Cannes Film Festival’s “Midnight Screenings” section in 2015 with mystery-thriller “Office.”

 

By Choi Ji-won (jwc@heraldcorp.com)

[Helena]

https://zapzee.net/2020/06/05/film-deliver-us-from-evil-unveiled-captivating-10-still-photos-ahead-of-its-release/

 

Film ‘DELIVER US FROM EVIL’ Unveiled Captivating 10 Still Photos Ahead of Its Release

 

by krishkim | imagesCredit: CJ Entertainment

 

 

The upcoming film DELIVER US FROM EVIL released 10 still photos on June 5. Hwang Jung Min plays the assassin, whereas Lee Jung Jae plays the chaser.

 

DELIVER US FROM EVIL is a hard-boiled chase action that depicts the desperate pursuit and struggle of In Nam (Hwang Jung Min), who gets caught up in a new case because of his final contract killing mission, and Ray (Lee Jung Jae), the ruthless pursuer.

 

 

Spoiler

 

 

 

The still photos capture the moments of the movie, including In Nam heading to Thailand after hearing the shocking news, and the final showdown between In Nam and Ray. Ray is also seen traveling from Japan to Thailand to chase the man who killed his brother.

 

Lee Jung Jae drew attention with his striking visuals. He perfectly fulls off the colorful clothes such as Hawaiian shirts and leopard print tops. Also, he drew much attention with a tattoo that covers his entire neck.

 

Spoiler

 

 

 

Lee Jung Jae and Hwang Jung Min’s passionate performances are also delivered with the photos. Lee Jung Jae glares at Hwang Jung Min, whereas Hwang Jung Min is running with blood on his face.

 

Meanwhile, the two actors were reunited for the first time in seven years with DELIVER US FROM EVIL. They previously worked together in the noir film New World.

 

Director Hong Won Chan, who was invited to the Cannes International Film Festival with his film Office, joined hands with cinematographer Hong Kyung Pyo of THE WAILING to deliver a dynamic experience for the viewers.

 

DELIVER US FROM EVIL is scheduled to be released in July.

 

 

 

Source (1)

[Helena]

https://www.koreatimes.co.kr/www/art/2020/06/689_290800.html

Hwang Jung-min, Lee Jung-jae team up for 'Deliver Us From Evil' 

By Kwak Yeon-soo | 2020-06-07

 

Actor Hwang Jung-min, left, speaks during an online press conference for the film "Deliver Us From Evil" held in Seoul, Friday. / Courtesy of CJ Entertainment

Actors Hwang Jung-min and Lee Jung-jae are reuniting for a hardboiled action film "Deliver Us From Evil," seven years after the two starred in 2013 hit crime drama "New World."

"Deliver Us From Evil" follows a story of hitman In-nam, played by Hwang, who plans to retire after carrying out one last hit. However, he gets embroiled in unexpected incidents as ruthless villain Ray, played by Lee, chases after him. 

Both lead actors said they were drawn to the large-scale action scenes in the film, compared with "New World," which was a crime drama filled with mystery and suspense. 

"Deliver Us From Evil" was filmed in several different locations ― Thailand, Korea and Japan, according to director Hong Won-chan. His debut feature "Office" was invited to the Midnight Screenings of the Cannes Film Festival in 2015.

The filmmaker explained that about 80 percent of the film was shot in Thailand.

 

"Since In-nam is an unusual character, we needed to find some exotic locations that reveal his character. I also wanted to capture the uniqueness of the city of Bangkok," Hong said during an online press conference for the film in Seoul, Friday. 

Hwang added that each country sets a different tone for the character. "When the movie is initially set in Japan, it features an overall gray tone. It becomes darker when In-nam is in Korea, but suddenly turns red when he arrives in Thailand to carry out his last mission. The red color best represents his true personality," he said. 
 

Lee, who plays a despicable villain in "Deliver Us From Evil," shared that the film is full of pulpy violence and pulse-pounding action scenes.

 

"There are a lot of fight scenes and wild action scenes in our movie," Lee said. "The action sequences in Thailand were more spectacular than I expected, so I had to familiarize myself with a seamless sequence of moves and practice with our martial arts team for weeks."

"I remember the most challenging scene was the one filmed at a shabby hotel in Thailand. Its narrow hallway made staging action scenes very difficult. The warm weather made the work much more exhausting," Hwang said. "But we exchanged ideas with the martial arts director and cinematographer and rehearsed the actions several times to prevent injury."

 

Hwang also praised cinematographer Hong Kyung-pyo, who previously filmed "Parasite" and "Wailing," for his remarkable work ethic and talent. 

"Hong is the most passionate and hard-working person I've met in the film industry. The production team also did their best to create an unprecedented large-scale action film," Hwang said. 

"Deliver Us From Evil" is set to hit local theaters in July. 

 

————

 

https://en.yna.co.kr/view/AEN20200605007300315

Crime thriller 'Evil,' work of Korean film industry veterans

 

Actors Hwang Jung-min (L) and Lee Jung-jae participate in an online press conference for the action film "Deliver Us From Evil" on June 5, 2020, in this photo provided by CJ Entertainment. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)

 

SEOUL, June 5 (Yonhap) -- The upcoming action film "Deliver Us From Evil" is set to catch the attention of South Korean film buffs for its collaboration between Cannes-invited director Hong Won-chan and "Parasite" cinematographer Hong Kyung-pyo.

 

It is also in the media spotlight for being the first collaboration between star actors Hwang Jung-min and Lee Jung-jae after their 2013 hit crime opera "New World." Hwang played the kingpin of a corporate crime syndicate, and Lee was a deep-cover cop and his right-hand man.

 

The new film revolves around a professional killer, played by Hwang, who plans to retire after carrying out his last mission. But he is embroiled in unexpected incidents as an unidentified pursuer, played by Lee, tries to kill him.

 

"I've created fresh characters that are hardly found in Korea movies," the director, whose debut feature "Office" (2015) was invited to the Midnight Screenings of the Cannes Film Festival that year, said in an online press conference Friday.

 

"It was risky for me to direct a movie starring two silver screen stars," he said. "But I largely depended on the two veterans and they made me feel easy as well."

The two actors said they were attracted by fresh characters and unprecedentedly large-scale action scenes in "Evil," compared to "New World," which is a crime movie with mystery and suspense. 

 

Unlike "New World," intensive and immersive action scenes, contributed by creative minds, including the "Parasite" cinematographer Hong, will keep people riveted, they noted.

 

"I've focused on action scenes. I've prepared to get ready for intensive fight scenes," said Hwang. "It was hard to get familiar with ideas from our martial director and cinematographer. I'd never experienced such action sequences."

Lee said he had to practice action arrangements and sequences for a whole week to film a full-scale scene, but he was satisfied with it.

 

"Our action director and cinematographer did their best to create creative action scenes and sequences," Lee said. "Their ideas made me feel strange and confused in the beginning, but the outcomes were so good."

Director Hong asked movie fans to visit theaters and enjoy the action-packed adventure on a big screen under the safe quarantine guidelines to prevent COVID-19 infection.

 

"Deliver Us From Evil" will hit local theaters in July.

 

 

brk@yna.co.kr
(END)

 

————————

http://www.koreaherald.com/view.php?ud=20200607000139

Hwang Jung-min, Lee Jung-jae promise great chemistry in ‘Deliver Us From Evil’

 

By Choi Ji-won | Jun 8, 2020

 

Leading men Hwang Jung-min (left) and Lee Jung-jae attend a press conference Friday to promote “Deliver Us From Evil.” (CJ Entertainment)

Top actors Hwang Jung-min and Lee Jung-jae, who showed great chemistry in the noir film “New World” seven years ago, are teaming up again for a new action flick. Their synergy in “Deliver Us From Evil” is unlike anything viewers have seen before, they say.

 

The two actors and the director, Hong Won-chan, held a promotional press conference Friday ahead of the film’s release in July.

 

While the 2013 film was notable for the bromance between the two actors, this time around the pair takes on an action-packed killer vs. killer chase. 

 

Hit man In-nam, played by Hwang, completes what he believes to be his last mission only to find himself being chased by “butcher” Ray, played by Lee. Upon learning of a kidnapping case in Thailand, In-nam heads to Bangkok. Ray, who believes In-nam is behind his brother’s death, follows.

 

“The story is about a character who has sinned being redeemed by another character,” director Hong said.

 

“While a lot of people are excited to see the two actors team up again, it was in some ways a burden for me as a producer. I felt the pressure to portray the two actors differently.

 

“The two characters are very different from each other and also from the actors’ previous roles.” 

 

Hwang said, “It was fun. Just like the audience, I also felt great excitement when I faced Lee as Ray in the film. We talked a lot before the action scenes.”

 

Spoiler

 

"Deliver Us From Evil" poster (CJ Entertainment)

 

 

The film was shot in three locations -- South Korea, Bangkok and Tokyo -- with around 80 percent of the filming taking place in Bangkok.

 

“The characters aren’t ordinary, so the locations also had to be far from mundane. Bangkok is a very special city. While it’s metropolitan for the most part, there are some chaotic and sacred aspects to the city as well, and we tried to express those qualities … in the film,” Hong said.

 

Hong Kyung-pyo, in charge of cinematography, has worked with several acclaimed directors before. They include Bong Joon-ho on “Snowpiercer” (2015) and “Parasite” (2019), Na Hong-jin on “Wailing” (2016) and Lee Chang-dong on “Burning” (2018). 

 

While actor Park Jung-min plays one of the main roles, Park does not appear in any promotional images. Explaining Park’s absence, Lee said the rising star was a “surprise gift” for the audience, hinting at the actor’s transformation in the film.

 

Park, 33, made his name in 2011 with the award-winning film “Bleak Night” and rose to stardom with the 2016 film “Dongju: The Portrait of a Poet,” for which he won several awards for best new actor.

 

“Our film is not based on any true story or historical incident and we focused wholly on expanding the cinematic elements of the action genre,” director Hong said. “We hope the audience can come to the cinema and indulge in it on a large screen,” the director said.

 

 

By Choi Ji-won (jwc@heraldcorp.com)

[Helena]

JTBC PLUS | 2020. 06. 10. 

Lee Jung Jae returns with sexy, dark final-boss look in "Deliver Us From Devil"

 

 

Actor Lee Jung Jae, who owns a thousand faces, will come back to the big screen in "Deliver Us From Devil".

In the film "Deliver Us From Devil", which is slated to premiere in July, Lee Jung Jae will play Re Yi - a ruthless chaser who never misses his target. After learning that his elder brother was assassinated by In Nam (played by Hwang Jung Min), he seeks cruel revenge and chases after In Nam's life.

In the previously released trailer, poster, and still-cuts, the actor overwhelms the audience by his never-seen-before daring appearance from tattoos to sophisticated styling, and realistic acting knacks in action scenes.

Immediately after the photos and posters related to the movie were released, the public showed explosive reactions such as, "I'm looking forward to the combination of Lee Jung Jae X Hwang Jung Min after 7 years from the film 'New World'", "He's indeed the king of transformation, I'll definitely watch if the film features Lee Jung Jae", "It gives me goosebumps whenever I listen to Lee Jung Jae's voice", "Welcome Lee Jung Jae back with a character with dark glamor", "If Lee Jung Jae plays the villain, the movie will definitely win big."

Most importantly, over the past time, Lee Jung Jae has ceaselessly strengthened his status as a leading actor by constantly changing and trying out different types of characters through each work, namely a thief, a police officer, a two-faced soldier of the independent army, General Soo Yang, King of hell, a pastor, and now to an assistant to the chaser named Re Yi. Therefore, the public is pouring interest and expectations into Lee Jung Jae's transformation in this movie.

The hardboiled pursue action movie "Deliver Us From Devil", where viewers can meet a new lifetime character and unconventional makeover of Lee Jung Jae, an actor without limits, will hit the theater in July.

 

 

Reporter Park Jung Sun /park.jungsun@jtbc.co.kr
Everything Idol, Everyday Exclusive
http://vtoday.vlive.tv/home

 

——————————

 

’DELIVER US FROM EVIL’ Postpones Release Date from July to Early August

 

by krishkim@zapzee.net

 

Credit: CJ Entertainment

 

The movie DELIVER US FROM EVIL has decided to postpone the release date to early August.

 

“Considering various factors such as summer vacation, expectations for the movie, the market conditions, we decided that early August, the peak season, is better than July,” said an official from the movie.

 

Starring Lee Jung Jae and Hwang Jung Min, DELIVER US FROM EVIL is emerging as the movie that will save the slump movie industry. DELIVER US FROM EVIL is a hard-boiled chase action that depicts the desperate pursuit and struggle of In Nam (Hwang Jung Min), who gets caught up in a new case because of his final contract killing mission, and Ray (Lee Jung Jae), the ruthless pursuer.

 

People’s anticipations are already at the peak just from the fact that two actors, Lee Jung Jae and Hwang Jung Min, have reunited.

Director Hong Won Chan, who was invited to the Cannes International Film Festival with his film Office, joined hands with cinematographer Hong Kyung Pyo of THE WAILING and Parasite to deliver a dynamic experience for the viewers.

 

Source (1)

 

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Will Film ‘New World’ Be Made Into Drama Series?

 

by krishkim@zapzee.net

 

Credit: NEW
 

We might be able to see the prequel of the film New World on the small screen.

 

Director Park Hoon Jung is reportedly pushing to dramatize the prequel of his film New World.

 

NEW, the investment distribution company of New World, said cautiously, “We are only in the process of sharing ideas of making the prequel of ‘New World’ into a drama.”

 

Director Park Hoon Jung, who recently finished the post-production of his new film The Night in Paradise (literal translation), is also preparing for the sequel of The Witch: Part 1. The Subversion with the goal of releasing it in 2021.

 

Meanwhile, director Park Hoon Jung’s best film New World portrays a power struggle between “Gold Moon,” the largest criminal organization in Korea, and the police in a world of conspiracy, betrayal, and loyalty. It was released in 2013 and attracted about 4.7 million viewers, despite being rated R.

 

 

Source (1)

[Helena]

http://www.koreaherald.com/view.php?ud=20200614000220

COVID-19 pushes back summer releases

By Choi Ji-won | Jun 14, 2020 

 

South Korean films set for release this summer are rescheduling their release dates, as cluster infections of the novel coronavirus continue to spring up in the Seoul metropolitan area.

Film distributor Merry Christmas announced last week that it has postponed the release of sci-fi flick “Space Sweepers” from summer to later this year, since the danger of COVID-19 infection lingers in the nation. The company stated that it is considering opening the film around the Chuseok holidays in September.

The space blockbuster, featuring big names such as Song Joong-ki and Kim Tae-ri, follows the journey of the crew on a debris-collecting space shuttle called the Victory in search of valuable garbage, and its dangerous deal with a humanoid weapon of mass destruction. 

Another star-studded film, “Deliver Us From Evil” starring Hwang Jung-min and Lee Jung-jae, had its release date pushed back from July to August. The film’s distributor, CJ Entertainment, announced the postponement last week, predicting that early August will be the peak season for the film industry considering the holiday schedule and current market situation. 

 

“Deliver Us From Evil” (CJ Entertainment)

 

CJ Entertainment is also shifting the release date of the musical film “Hero,” which was expected to hit local cinemas in the summer season. Depicting the final year in the life of of Korean independence fighter Ahn Jung-geun, the film is one of the distributor’s most anticipated tentpole productions of the year. Although the film’s new release date is undecided, the company aims for a release this year to mark the 110th anniversary of Ahn’s death.

Action-crime film “Mogadishu” from star director Ryoo Seung-wan, featuring stars Kim Yoon-seok and Jo In-sung, has also been delayed to later this year.

Two star directors set for summer comebacks with sequels to previous hits, director Yeon Sang-ho with “Peninsula,” the follow-up to “Train to Busan,” and director Yang Woo-seok with “Steel Rain 2: Summit,” are likely to continue with their original release plans, meaning their films should be out in July or August.

The trend accompanies a recent rebound in the number of virus infections and the extension of toughened social distancing measures, announced by the government Friday. While local cinemas have seen the number of moviegoers inch up in June -- thanks to government-provided discount coupons and the introduction of new films -- companies are still hesitant to launch new titles with the ongoing fear of COVID-19 among the general public.


By Choi Ji-won (jwc@heraldcorp.com)

[Helena]

https://en.yna.co.kr/view/AEN20200629005300315
Three Korean blockbusters likely to lead summer box office race amid pandemic

 

SEOUL, June 29 (Yonhap) -- This year's summer box office will highly likely be a three-way race among Korean movies as two Hollywood blockbusters -- "Mulan" and Christopher Nolan's "Tenet" -- delayed their July releases.

 

The summer peak season is when most box office hits come out in the country.

 

According to foreign press reports, Disney's "Mulan" postponed its release date from July 24 to Aug. 21 due to the worsening new coronavirus pandemic in the United States. Warner Brothers' "Tenet," which had already delayed its release from July 17 to late July, reportedly pushed the opening further back to Aug. 12.

 

The question now is whether three big-budget Korean films set to open this summer -- zombie thriller "Peninsula," action film "Deliver Us From Evil" and thriller "Steel Rain 2: Summit" -- will be able to save local cinemas hit hard by the pandemic.

 

Spoiler

A scene from "Peninsula" by NEW (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)

 

Director Yeon Sang-ho's second zombie film after smash-hit "Train to Busan" (2016) is the first of the three films to arrive at the summer box office.

 

Starring silver screen star Gang Dong-won, "Peninsula" will hit the local screens on July 15, heralding the start of the summer vacation season. It is poised to repeat the feat of its predecessor, released on July 20, 2016, that attracted a total of 11.6 million admissions.

 

"Peninsula" is set in the same universe four years after its prequel, in which the whole country was hit by zombies except for the southern port city of Busan. Jung-seok (Gang Dong-won), a former soldier who escaped the zombie-infested peninsula four years ago, is tasked with going back to the devastated land to retrieve something.

A scene from "Deliver Us From Evil" by CJ Entertainment (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)

In early August, "Evil" will be released to target summer vacationers between end-July and early-August.

 

The film revolves around a professional killer, who plans to retire after carrying out his last mission. But he is embroiled in unexpected incidents as an unidentified pursuer tries to kill him. It is in the media spotlight for being the first collaboration between star actors Hwang Jung-min and Lee Jung-jae after their 2013 hit crime opera "New World." Hwang played the kingpin of a corporate crime syndicate, and Lee was a deep-cover cop and his right-hand man.

 

Spoiler

A scene from "Steel Rain 2: Summit" by Lotte Entertainment (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)

 

At the same time, "Steel Rain 2" is preparing to open in early August, with a poster and a teaser trailer released on social media.

 

Starring seasoned actor Jung Woo-sung, the film features a fictional kidnapping of leaders of the two Koreas and the United States in a North Korean nuclear-powered submarine.

 

Although it shares two of the main leads of the 2017 political action thriller "Steel Rain," "Steel Rain 2" is not a direct sequel of its predecessor, which drew around 4.5 million moviegoers at the box office, and does not share the same universe.

 

Insiders expect the virus-hit film industry, which is showing some signs of rebound in June after a monthslong slump, will be bolstered by the upcoming competition of the three summer tentpoles.

 

Due to fallout from the COVID-19 pandemic, the South Korean box office has been in a deep slump for about four months, with its daily admissions slumping to 15,000 in April.

 

Dozens of big-budget titles, including the space opera "Space Sweepers," starring Song Joong-ki and Kim Tae-ri, postponed their releases to the latter half of this year.

 

brk@yna.co.kr
(END)

 

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https://www.screendaily.com/microsites/first-trailer-cjs-action-thriller-deliver-us-from-evil/5150791.article

First trailer: CJ’s action thriller ‘Deliver Us From Evil’

21 JUNE 2020

 

SOURCE: CJ ENTERTAINMENT

‘DELIVER US FROM EVIL’

Check out the first trailer for CJ Entertainment’s action thriller Deliver Us From Evil.

 

From the director of Office, which premiered in Cannes 2015’s Midnight section, Hong Won-chan’s crime action film stars Hwang Jung-min (Veteran), Lee Jung-jae (Assassination) and Park Jung-min (Time To Hunt). 

 

When a former black ops agent-turned-mercenary (Hwang) finds out a young girl’s kidnapping in Thailand is closely connected to him, he flies there to track her down with the help of expat Yui (Park), while being pursued by a relentless killer (Lee) who is out for vengeance against him. 
 

Currently in post-production, the film is aiming for an August release locally, depending on the Covid-19 situation.

 

————————————————————————————————————————

 

https://zapzee.net/2020/06/26/hwang-jung-min-lee-jung-jae-to-appear-on-omniscient-interfering-view/

Hwang Jung Min & Lee Jung Jae to Appear on ‘Omniscient Interfering View’
 

by krishkim 

 

Spoiler

Credit: CJ Entertainment

 

Hwang Jung Min and Lee Jung Jae will appear in an entertainment show. Indeed, it is the definition of “special appearance.”

 

According to multiple sources, Hwang Jung Min and Lee Jung Jae recently confirmed their appearances on MBC’s Omniscient Interfering View and will record on June 29.

It is rumored that the two actors chose Omniscient Interfering View as the first choice for their promotional activities for DELIVER US FROM EVIL.

 

In particular, Lee Jung Jae’s best friend Jung Woo Sung previously appeared in the show, breaking the highest viewership. Naturally, the upcoming special episode with Hwang Jung Min and Lee Jung Jae is already making headlines.

 

As the two appear together, it’s likely to be a collaboration with the regular cast of the show rather than focusing on their daily lives with their managers.

 

Recently, full-swing promotional activities of the stars, who rarely appeared on entertainment shows, are on the rise as the movie industry is in the slump due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Yoo Ah In appeared on I Live Alone, whereas Kang Dong Won appeared on multiple YouTube channels.

 

Source (1)

[Helena]

https://zapzee.net/2020/07/06/deliver-us-from-evil-confirms-its-release-on-august-5/

‘Deliver Us From Evil’ Confirms Its Release on August 5

 

by krishkim 

 

Credit: CJ Entertainment

 

The new film Deliver Us from Evil will meet the audience next month. It has confirmed its release on August 5.

 

The movie released the main poster on July 6, along with the news of its decision on the release date. Against the backdrop of Thailand’s desolate street, the poster captures the overwhelming presence of Hwang Jung Min (In Nam) and Lee Jung Jae (Ray).

 

Wearing a suit, Hwang Jung Min is holding a pistol. The clothes are stained with dirt and blood, suggesting there had already been a fierce battle. The overall tone is also sharp and edgy.

 

However, Lee Jung Jae looks like a leopard. With a long rifle in his hands, he is just about to face Hwang Jung Min. The zebra-patterned shirt and the tattoo on the back of the neck left a strong impression.

 

Deliver Us from Evil is a hard-boiled chase action that depicts the desperate pursuit and struggle of In Nam (Hwang Jung Min), who gets caught up in a new case because of his final contract killing mission, and Ray (Lee Jung Jae), his ruthless pursuer.

 

 

Source (1)

 

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https://www.soompi.com/article/1411289wpp/hwang-jung-min-and-lee-jung-jae-reunite-7-years-after-new-world-for-action-film

Hwang Jung Min And Lee Jung Jae Reunite 7 Years After “New World” For Action Film

Jul 6, 2020

by C. Lee

 

A new poster has been unveiled for the upcoming film “Deliver Us From Evil” (working title)!

 

“Deliver Us From Evil” is an action film that tells the story of In Nam (played by Hwang Jung Min), whose last contract killing creates a new problem for him, and the merciless Ray (played by Lee Jung Jae), who chases after In Nam in a gruesome pursuit.

 

Hwang Jung Min and Lee Jung Jae reunited for their first movie together in seven years since starring in the 2013 film “New World.” The two actors revealed that they were excited to hear that they would be co-stars once again.

 

Lee Jung Jae said, “I already knew that Hwang Jung Min was cast, so I thought that I needed to join him no matter what.”

 

Hwang Jung Min similarly revealed, “I knew that reuniting with Lee Jung Jae was fate because we had so much fun in our previous film. I was happy when I saw him again.”

 

He also commented, “It’s been a long time in terms of how many years have passed since ‘New World,’ but it doesn’t feel like it. When we were filming, it felt like it had just been yesterday. It was very fascinating. When I go on set, I forget that’s it’s been seven years.”

The main poster for “Deliver Us From Evil” reveals the tension between In Nam and Ray in Thailand, as if one of them will end up pointing their gun at the other. The poster reads, “The two men’s unstoppable pursuit” and leaves fans wondering what kind of action will play out.

 

Director Hong Won Chan of the 2014 film “Office” has teamed up with Hong Kyung Pyo, director of photography for popular films “The Wailing” and “Parasite,” for “Deliver Us from Evil.”

 

The film premieres on August 5.

 

In the meantime, watch Hwang Jung Min and Lee Jung Jae in “New World” here!

 

WATCH NOW

 

Source (1) (2)

[Helena]

http://www.koreaherald.com/view.php?ud=20200727000730
Veteran actor Lee Jung-jae to make directorial debut

By Choi Ji-won | Jul 27, 2020

Lee Jung-jae (Megabox Joongang Plus M)

 

Veteran actor Lee Jung-jae is set to make his directorial debut in an upcoming spy-action film.

Tentatively titled “Hunt,” the film is expected to kick off production next year, according to the film’s distributor Megabox Joongang Plus M last week. Lee will also play the lead role in the movie.

Taking place in 1980s Korea, the film will revolve around national security agents Park Pyong-ho and Kim Jung-do, who are chasing after the chief of North Korea’s espionage operation in the South. Lee will play Park, a member of the agency’s overseas division.

Lee joined the production of the spy movie in early 2017. He selected the film -- which was then titled “Namsan” -- as his first production piece and stated he would also take part in writing the film’s screenplay. 

A few months later, media reported that filmmaker Jung Ji-woo of “Eungyo” (2012) and veteran actor Choi Min-sik would be joining the project as director and lead actor, respectively. However, Jung and Choi ultimately declined to take the part, and star director Han Jae-rim, of “The Face Reader” (2013) and “The King” (2017), was then expected to helm the movie. However, Han also turned down the offer in March 2018.

After almost four years of working on the script, Lee finally confirmed he will himself be taking up the role of producer, director and lead actor. 

Meanwhile, the distributor on Monday told The Korea Herald that another headlining actor, Jung Woo-sung -- well known as a longtime close friend of Lee -- is considering starring in the movie. If Jung confirms the casting, the two actors will partner for the first time in 21 years, since action-drama film “City of the Rising Sun” in 1999. 

Lee, 47, debuted as a TV actor in 1993 and, in the following year, shot to fame with his first film “The Young Man.” Since then, Lee has had key roles in several hit films, including “The Thieves” (2012), “The New World” (2013) and “Assassination” (2015), which all exceeded the blockbuster milestone of 10 million tickets sold.

 

 

By Choi Ji-won (jwc@heraldcorp.com)

 

—

 

https://www.koreatimes.co.kr/www/art/2020/07/689_293380.html
Actor Lee Jung-jae to make directorial debut

 

Spoiler

By Lee Gyu-lee |  2020-07-26

[photo]
Lee Jung-jae debuted in 1993 in the TV series "Dinosaur Teacher." Courtesy of Artist Company

Actor Lee Jung-jae, known for his roles in diverse genre films such as the crime action "The Thieves" (2012) and the historical drama "Assassination" (2015), is to add directing to his repertoire.
 

Local film distributor Megabox Plus M announced Friday that he would be director and lead actor for its upcoming project "Hunt" (working title), set to begin filming in 2021.

The spy action film will revolve around two national security agents Park Pyong-ho and Kim Jung-do, who chase after the head of North Korea's espionage operation. Lee will play agent Park who works under the agency's overseas division. 

This film's production started three years ago, under the working title "Namsan." After reading the synopsis, Lee decided to take part in writing the scripts and producing it along with director Han Jae-rim in 2017.

However, the project was put on hold when Han decided to leave before production began. Lee continued to work on the script and the film is finally set to begin production. 

The actor's longtime actor friend Jung Woo-sung is considering playing the other lead character Kim Jung-do. 

The actors' agency Artist Company told multiple media outlets that "Jung has been offered a role in 'Hunt' and is reviewing it."

If Jung takes the role, it will be the first time in 21 years that the two have co-starred in a film, since "City of the Rising Sun" in 1999.

Lee debuted in 1993 through the TV series "Dinosaur Teacher" and rose to fame after playing the lead in the crime drama film "The Young Man" in 1994. He has starred in various TV series and movies, including JTBC's drama "Chief of Staff" (2019) and crime thriller film" New World" (2013). 

He also co-founded the entertainment management company Artist Company with actor Jung in 2016.

 

 

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https://zapzee.net/2020/07/29/jung-woo-sung-talks-about-his-upcoming-movie-steel-rain-2-summit-and-his-friendship-with-actor-lee-jung-jae/
Jung Woo Sung Talks About His Upcoming Movie ‘Steel Rain 2: Summit’ and His Friendship with Actor Lee Jung Jae

by krishkim

 

...........

 

Credit: Lotte Entertainment, CJ Entertainment

Now, Jung Woo Sung will face his best friend Lee Jung Jae (who starred in Deliver Us from Evil) in the box office. “It’s a happy time for us to face each other in the theater. I think that’s enough. Our movies tell different stories and different genres. I hope we both receive enough love and support from the audiences.“

As for the secret behind his 21-year-long friendship with Lee Jung Jae, he said, “We don’t emphasize each other. We tend to just look and admit (each other). We stay quiet because we don’t know how what the results will be.“

[Helena]

http://www.koreaherald.com/view.php?ud=20200729000723
Hwang Jung-min and Lee Jung-jae’s deadly reunion in ‘Deliver Us From Evil’

 

Park Jung-min stars as a mysterious character in the action thriller

 

By Choi Ji-won | Jul 29, 2020

Lee Jung-jae (left) and Hwang Jung-min in “Deliver Us From Evil” (CJ Entertainment)

Veteran actors Hwang Jung-min and Lee Jung-jae, who called each other “brother” in the crime-noir “New World” (2013), are reunited in the action-packed thriller “Deliver Us From Evil,” this time as bitter enemies.

The film revolves around hit man In-nam, played by Hwang, who finishes what he promised would be his last job before fleeing Japan, but unexpectedly gets mixed up in a case in Thailand. In Bangkok, a barbaric killer named Ray, played by Lee -- also known as “the butcher” -- chases In-nam down to avenge the death of his brother.

According to the film’s director-writer, Hong Won-chan, the film takes action scenes to the next level -- with everything from gangster fights to shootings, stabbings and bombings in three countries. Hong has written the scripts for several hit action thrillers, including “The Chaser” (2007), “The Scam” (2009) and “The Yellow Sea” (2010). 

“I decided the climax of the action and the characters’ emotions had to come together, and that the veteran actors would control their emotions along such flow, even without my direction. I relied on the actors a lot this time,” Hong said at a press premiere in Seoul on Tuesday. 

Hwang had more action scenes in this film than in any of his previous works. “In ‘New World,’ I would say there were many action scenes. We have hard-boiled chase-action scenes in ‘Deliver Us From Evil,’ and I can assure you, they are real. The amount of action scenes was incomparable to any other films, even compared to ‘Veteran’ (2015),” Hwang said in an email interview.

A chameleon of an actor, Lee has shown different facets of himself in his previous action movies, including “The Thieves,” “Assassination” and “New World.” Yet another undiscovered side emerges in the new movie.

“The script didn’t give much description about Ray, and as an actor, this meant that I could build the character as I chose. We narrowed down on different styles (for the characters’ costumes and appearance), and it was really fun. I think it was one of my most difficult yet fun characters,” Lee said at Tuesday’s press event.

Director Hong Won-chan (center) and lead cast members Park Jung-min (far left) and Lee Jung-jae pose at a press premiere event at CGV Yongsan I’Park Mall in Seoul on Tuesday to promote “Deliver Us From Evil.” (Yonhap)

Park Jung-min, who stayed away from the public for his transformation in the film, takes up the role of Yu-i, who assists In-nam in Bangkok. 

“Yu-i has his own past faults and feels indebted to his family. I tried to understand the character focusing on this aspect,” said Park, attending his first press event for the film. “With that in mind, I concentrated on making my acting not too excessive or strange.”

Park had previously starred in Hong’s debut flick, “Office” (2015), a suspense thriller that was invited to the Berlinale that year.

“I didn’t give (Park) much description about the character because I felt it would limit his thoughts. I also knew that Park puts a lot of effort into understanding his characters and I was curious how he would interpret Yu-i. Park went way beyond my expectations. I’m very grateful.”

The director added that the film has its roots in the noir genre, a genre that he loves very much.

“The big plot of the story comes from the idea of a sinner saving another sinner, thereby redeeming himself. The title, coming from a Christian prayer, simply paraphrases this plot.”

The film opens Aug. 5. 

 

 

By Choi Ji-won (jwc@heraldcorp.com)

 

————————-

 

https://en.yna.co.kr/view/AEN20200729007000315
(Movie Review) 'Deliver Us From Evil' is all about action

By Kim Boram

SEOUL, July 29 (Yonhap) -- The action thriller "Deliver Us From Evil," directed by Hong Won-chan, fills its near two-hour running time with stabbings, murders and assassinations carried out by two professional killers.

Hired assassin In-nam (Hwang Jung-min) plans to retire after carrying out his last mission. But that final task causes a rabid, ruthless pursuer, Ray (Lee Jung-jae), to pursue In-nam's death.

Starting in Japan and South Korea, the race moves to in Thailand as In-nam tries to rescue a nine-year old girl kidnapped by a local crime syndicate. There, he joins hands with Yoo-yi (Park Jung-min), who helps In-nam search for the kid.

A scene from "Deliver Us From Evil" by CJ Entertainment (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)

 

"Evil" is one of the most anticipated summer blockbusters in South Korea, as the film reunites two veteran action specialists and renowned filmmakers, including director Hong, whose first feature "Office" (2015) was invited to the Cannes Film Festival that year, and "Parasite" cinematographer Hong Kyung-pyo.

Hwang and Lee starred in the 2013 hit crime opera "New World," in which Hwang played the kingpin of an organized crime ring, and Lee was a deep-cover cop and his right-hand man.

Seven years later, they changed the mood and characters in "Evil," in which Hwang portrays a taciturn, capable killer who is tired of his job, while Lee plays a character who is merciless and unsympathetic and later doesn't care about why he has to kill In-nam.

The onscreen chemistry of the two stars, who perfectly practiced complicated action arrangements and sequences, amplifies the realism and plausibility of the blood-splattered action and chase scenes.

Director Hong also displayed his specialty of creating suspense and nail-biting thrills in a relatively simple storyline. He seems to know how to make viewers feel cruelty and brutality and snap to attention without large-scale bloodshed, but using just vivid action and stunts.

Contributed by cinematography by Hong Kyung-pyo, moreover, sophisticatedly edited action cuts, bold colors and powerful sound intensify the antagonistic relationship between In-nam and Ray.

 

Spoiler

A scene from "Deliver Us From Evil" by CJ Entertainment (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)

However, the plain fairy tale-like storyline -- a man rescues an imprisoned princess to atone for his past crimes -- weakens the building tension and nerve as the film nears its end.

The plot corresponds to its title, "Deliver Us From Evil," named after a phrase from The Lord's Prayer.

And viewers may get a strong sense of deja vu from its action scenes and dialogue, as they echo famous thrillers like "No Country for Old Men" (2007) and "New World."

Director Hong said he wants to create his own style and sensibility, even in within a formulaic, conventional plot.

"In creating this kind of familiar story, how much I can make differences and variations is the key point," he said in a press conference on Tuesday. "I think the character of Ray is the difference. It will help people think fresh and new when they see my movie."

"Evil" will hit local screens next Wednesday.

 

brk@yna.co.kr
(END)

[Helena]

https://en.yna.co.kr/view/AEN20200730009500315
(Yonhap Interview) Veteran actor Lee Jung-jae recreates villain character in 'Evil'

By Kim Boram

SEOUL, July 30 (Yonhap) -- When prolific actor Lee Jung-jae takes the role of a villain, his movies have often become box office hits -- the caper film "The Thieves" (2012), the crime opera "New World" (2013), the historical film "The Face Leader" (2013) and the espionage action film "Assassination" (2015).

In the upcoming action thriller "Deliver Us From Evil," directed by Hong Won-chan, Lee plays a rabid, unsympathetic killer, named Ray. He pursues the death of assassin In-nam, played by Hwang Jung-min, after his brother's death.

"My previous bad-guy characters have definitely had violent and cruel ideas, but they don't express them outright," Lee said during an interview with Yonhap News Agency on Thursday. "So I had to focus on presenting their inner brutality rather than revealing such disposition through their conduct or attitude."

 

Spoiler

A scene from "Deliver Us From Evil" by CJ Entertainment (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)

In "The Face Leader," he portrayed Grand Prince Suyang during the 1392-1910 Joseon Dynasty, who yearns to become the king but conceals his desire until he takes the throne through a coup. Lee was awarded best supporting actor at the 2013 Blue Dragon Awards for his performance in the film.

But Ray is different from those roles, he said. Ray's every action and gesture shows that he is radically furious and wild, longing to kill In-nam, while there is no clear scene that explains his thoughts, intentions and his past.

"This time, I wanted to play a role that is apparently fierce and aggressive, as I've done many characters whose violence is hidden inside," he said. "So I made efforts to make Ray look more vicious and cruel even while doing nothing but frowning."

Ray's props and costumes in the film were elaborately sorted out by Lee to show his flat-out indecency and atrocity in a more eye-catching way. Ray first appears on screen wearing a white long coat at his brother's funeral, and he starts to run after In-nam.

"As a callous, tenacious killer, he would not have dressed in black for a funeral. He doesn't care about it," he said. "Because of his brother's death, he finds out a reason to hunt a murderer and pursue him."

Even during break times, Lee said he kept seeking details and gestures to present Ray's image in a creepier and more gruesome way.

Actor Lee Jung-jae, in this photo provided by CJ Entertainment (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)

Partly thanks to such intense efforts and dedication in creating his cinematic characters, Lee, 47, is preparing to make his directorial debut in the near future.

"I've written a scenario for the past eight or nine years and participated in a project to develop it," said the go-getting actor. "And the screenplay is now ready for production, and I decided to try it."

The espionage action film, tentatively titled "Hunt," is in pre-production and is expected to be shot next year.

 

Spoiler

A scene from "Deliver Us From Evil" by CJ Entertainment (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)

brk@yna.co.kr
(END)

 

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https://www.donga.com/en/List/article/all/20200731/2136884/1/Actor-Lee-Jung-jae-plays-a-chilling-evil
Actor Lee Jung-jae plays a chilling evil

July 31, 2020

Lee Jung-jae, who pushes his own limits with every new character he plays, became “Ray” this time in “Deliver Us from Evil” directed by Hong Won-chan that will be released on Wednesday. This crime thriller follows Ray who hunts down and ruthlessly kills everyone around In-nam, a hitman played by Hwang Jung-min who killed Ray’s brother. Lee and Hwang worked together “New World,” which is thought to have expanded the definition of Korean noir, and this film has attracted much attention being the first film in seven years where they collaborated. 

Speaking at a café in Samcheong-dong, Seoul’s Jongno District on Thursday, Lee described Ray as “a beast that hunts its prey.”

“Revenge for his brother’s death is not the only motivation for Ray’s killings of In-nam’s family and friends,” said Lee. “Revenge is an excuse. Ray is a beast that was looking for his prey, and his brother’s death gave him a good reason to go on a killing spree. My focus was to make the audience feel how cruel he is even if he does not do anything.”

Ray’s first appearance in the film overwhelms the audience, even more than when Prince Suyang appears in “The Face Reader.” With skinny cheeks and tattoos covering his neck, Ray comes to his brother’s funeral and looks at his dead body emotionlessly in his white long coat that reaches his ankles. 

“It is important that you convince your audience from the first appearance,” said Lee. “It allows them to stay with the character throughout the movie.” He picked out an outfit for the funeral scene himself.

Some might say Lee can be easy on himself now. After all, he starred four movies that were watched by more than 10 million viewers and played various characters as a lead or supporting actor for the past 20 years. However, he still pushes himself to play a role that he has never played.

 

 

Jae-Hee Kim jetti@donga.com

 

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Cine21 issue# 1267 

[Helena]

http://english.chosun.com/site/data/html_dir/2020/08/01/2020080100295.html
Lee Jung-jae Worries About Being Typecast with Another Villainous Role in New Film

By Baik Su-jin | August 01, 2020

Actor Lee Jung-jae is consolidating his filmography with another villainous role in his upcoming film "Deliver Us from Evil" set for release next week.

In the action film, in which he is being reunited with Hwang Jung-min after their 2013 hit film "New World," Lee plays a ruthless killer chasing a hit man who killed his brother, traveling all the way to Thailand to avenge his brother's death.

 

[image]

Lee Jung-jae

Lee, who used to appear in melodramas, mostly took on villainous roles in recent years. When asked about how he feels about his previous films like "The Face Leader" and "Assassination" in which he played bad guys, Lee said, "I'm a bit worried about being typecast as a villain." He added, "When playing a villain, there's room to use your imagination to make the character more interesting. Not to mention various props, I tried out many things such as clothes, accessories, tattoos and even once wore a pink wig to create some mystique."

"Deliver Us from Evil" is packed with action scenes including fistfights, gunfights and car chases. Lee even ruptured his shoulder while shooting scenes. "It matters to have a lot of spectacular action and stunts, but at the same time I wanted to portray a cruel look that is immediately recognizable," he said. "My role is like a beast who enjoys hunting. I put a lot of efforts to make facial expressions that would allow viewers to interpret the role by just looking in his eyes."

The new film by Lee's close friend and actor Jung Woo-sung, "Steel Rain 2: Summit," was released early this week, about two weeks ahead of his film, which will hit theaters on Aug. 8. "Rather than competing with each other, both of the films can be a boost for the ailing film industry [due to the coronavirus epidemic]," he said.

Lee is also preparing his directorial debut with an aim to release his own movie sometime next year. "Jung has been rejecting my offer for four years. He simply says he is thinking about it. I hope he will make up his mind soon," Lee said.
 

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https://zapzee.net/2020/08/03/deliver-us-from-evil-was-a-tough-movie-even-for-lee-jung-jae/
Deliver Us From Evil’ Was a Tough Movie Even for Lee Jung Jae

by krishkim

“My role was hard for me to understand. But I was strangely attracted to him.”

Credit: CJ Entertainment

In movie Deliver Us from Evil, Ray, played by Lee Jung Jae, is a character who the audience cannot easily sympathize with. He chases someone for revenge, but reasons for his revenge are not well explained.

It was not easy for Lee Jung Jae to fully digest the character when he first saw the script, because no detailed explanations about him were present. So he had to ponder over, “why did Ray chase after In Nam.” In terms of probabilities, it makes no sense, but Ray had the charm that only Lee Jung Jae felt.

“Whenever I act, I have the dream of expanding my limits. I had to fill in the holes left about the character. I figured that Ray pursued In Nam because he found a prey he wanted to chase, using his brother’s death as an excuse.”

Since there were not that many lines, he wanted to highlight his character with the visuals. For the first time, he hired a personal stylist and got help in creating Ray.

One of the best things about the movie is the striking action scenes. Lee Jung Jae was injured while filming them.

“I think I got hurt because I was doing these action scenes while feeling my ages (laugh). We planned to receive 15 rating from the get-go, so we tried to reduce the number of violent scenes.”

He played the villain role once again, following The Thieves and The Face Reader.

“Playing a villain allows a wide range of imaginations in performing. When dealing with villains, I wanted to perform differently, and I also wanted to add differentiated charms from my previous villain characters to Ray.”

Jung Woo Sung became a crucial part of Lee Jung Jae’s life. Coincidentally, he will compete with his best friend in the box office.

“Steel Rain 2: Summit is a work that depicted political and diplomatic issues with suspense. I also liked and enjoyed the end, where the director sent a message. I think you will enjoy the film because it presents a different color from Deliver Us From Evil.”

He also mentioned his friendship with Jung Woo Sung.

“The reason why we are so close is simple. We cherish each other and we feel it. I know that he’s on my sides and I feel like we’re on the same page. I’m grateful for him and he reassures me. I’m very proud that we started our careers around the same time and have been together until now, and that I have a friend who always presents colorful performances and receives positive responses from the audience.”

Lee Jung Hae will make his directorial debut with the movie Hunt (working title), which he had been preparing for 4 years. After finishing Netflix original series, Round Six, he will begin filming next year.

“Since I prepared, planned, and agonized over this project from 8 to 9 years ago, I naturally thought that it would be more effective if I direct the film.”

Source (1, 2, 3)

[Helena]

https://koreajoongangdaily.joins.com/2020/08/03/entertainment/movies/Lee-Jungjae-Deliver-Us-From-Evil-killer/20200803162300469.html
Tattoos and tiger shirts — Lee Jung-jae plays one flashy villain

 

August 3, 2020

 

Lee Jung-jae [CJ ENTERTAINMENT]

 

 

Within the movie industry, there's a saying that if actor Lee Jung-jae portrays a villain, the film will be successful.

That’s how powerful his aura is — and why the actor’s villainous scenes in “The Housemaid” (2010), “The Thieves” (2012), “The Face Reader” (2013) and “Assassination” (2015) are some of his most famous.

In his upcoming action film “Deliver Us From Evil,” which premieres on Wednesday, Lee plays a ruthless butcher-killer named Ray who is focused on one mission and only one mission only: to avenge his older brother killed by hit man In-nam (played by Hwang Jung-min).

While it may sound like Ray is a run-of-the-mill purpose-driven killer, Lee was determined to set his character apart and knew that the first impression he made on screen had to be powerful.

“In the script itself, there wasn’t much explanation about Ray, so I could only express him through [my] visuals and performance,” Lee said in a press interview at a cafe in Samcheong-dong, central Seoul, on Thursday.

“Rather than disclosing [the reason] why Ray pursues In-nam so blindly through his dialogue, I wanted all the questions answered as soon as the audience sees him, which is why Ray’s looks and expressions were so vital to his character. I just had to [give off an impression that] he’s just someone who has to get something done, there are no [rationalities] behind it.”

Lee played the part to the fullest — whenever Ray appears, even the air around him seem to quiver in fear — but what sets the character apart from other sinister villains is his sense of fashion.

Traditionally, killers on a mission wear dark clothes that can remain inconspicuous in the crowd — but throughout his chase, Ray appears on the scene donning white attire, flashy shirts with tiger print, luxury brands and clad in colorful tattoos that reach all the way up to his neck, suggesting that this killer is not only fashion conscious, but prefers to stand out in a crowd.

 

Actor Lee Jung-jae as merciless killer Ray, whose only goal is to avenge his older brother who was killed by a hit man named In-nam (played by Hwang Jung-min). [CJ ENTERTAINMENT]

 

When the script was first given to the actor, however, Lee said that Ray did not stand out as much.

“He was darker and had a certain mystique, the kind of killer whose narrative remained in the shadows,” Lee said. “But in the first meeting [with producers] the visual concept that I brought was red and pink hair, white boots and orange shorts (laughs).

“He was certainly one of the most peculiar characters that I had the chance to portray. I’ve got to test how much I can push through — I brought the strongest imagery that I could find and scaled it down a bit. After I was dressed in tiger- or zebra-patterned shirts, what I heard the most was that although it looks extravagant, it strangely suited Ray.”

To stay in character, Lee remained alone on the set. The veteran actor says that this is the best way to retain his emotions when he’s portraying a segregated character.

“On the set, I only talked about work with fellow actors — there wasn’t any time for us to have fun or talk,” he said. “But to bring out the best outcome, we needed to focus on our own characters.”

Lee’s action scenes are some of the best in the film — whether he’s combating In-nam or fighting the masses. The actor says that what’s vital to such scenes are his facial expressions.

 

Ray and In-nam during their first face-to-face encounter. [CJ ENTERTAINMENT]

 

 

“Those momentary expressions — that’s what’s most important,” Lee said. “Action sequences are for show. What’s more important is what set of emotions the actor [is able to] bring between the action scenes. Which is why the scenes that I thought had the most impact were Ray’s expressions after the action. For instance, the way he always has a cup of ice coffee in his hand [and his expression] when he chews on the ice.”

The idea to make Ray a caffeine addict also came from Lee.

“The audience should instinctively shrink away from Ray,” he said. “But more than that, I wanted people to think of him as unique, odd and abnormal. The first scene that I had [as Ray] was in Japan, when he arrives on the scene to kill. But I thought it wasn’t enough to just have him walk in nonchalantly. Having an an ice coffee in his hand, [it builds up on the notion] that killing is something mundane to him.”

Even though the actor does his best to bring out new sides for every film, after 28 years in the business he admits that he does feel like he's hitting a limit nowadays.

“I feel that I have already pulled out everything inside me and used them all,” Lee said. “But when I’m given a good script, I do have this desire to [continue to show other sides of me], so I’m scraping up all I can and receive a lot of help from the crew [for recent films].

“I’m sure all of you have experienced this before,” Lee continued. “It’s like there are certain styles of attire that suit me and that I enjoy regularly, but when someone gives me apparel as a gift, and when I try them on and it doesn’t suit me — that’s what I’m afraid of [in acting]. After being in this business for so long, I’m not sure if I can manage the outfits [roles] that are given to me. I [constantly] wonder if I’m summoning up what I did before, and if I’m out of ideas, I’m tempted to use what I did before — just modify some parts. To be honest, after showing so much of the person called Lee Jung-jae, it’s a pressure [now] to show more.”

Despite the mounting pressure, his everlasting thirst for films may be one of the many reasons why the actor is turning to filmmaking. Last month, the news was finalized that Lee is to debut as a director in his film tentatively titled “Hunt.” Lee is to participate in scriptwriting and feature as a lead role as well.

Lee first came across the notion of filmmaking when he was filming for “The Thieves.”

“I’ve only heard before that in Hollywood, actors also write scripts, produce and direct films,” Lee said. “I thought that was only limited to Hollywood. But when we were filming in Macau, actor Ren Dahua told me he’s produced his friend’s film last month, and this month a script he wrote will be going into production as a film, and in a few months he’s going to direct another film. That hit me hard. That’s when I realized that it’s not about what part I play in making a good film and motivated me [to start filmmaking].”

 

 

BY LEE JAE-LIM   [lee.jaelim@joongang.co.kr]

 

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http://www.koreaherald.com/view.php?ud=20200803000742
Cinemas still far from normalcy despite success of few films

By Choi Ji-won | Aug 3, 2020 

 

Spoiler

People wait in front of the ticket box at the Megabox Coex branch in Seoul on Monday. (Choi Ji-won/The Korea Herald)

Blockbuster action flick “Steel Rain 2” has racked up 1 million admissions in less than a week, following the lead of zombie thriller “Peninsula,” which kicked off the summer movie season amid the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

“Steel Rain 2” surpassed the mark of 1 million on Sunday, according to the state-run Korean Film Council, five days after its opening on July 29. The film is expected to be in a close race with action thriller “Deliver Us From Evil,” slated to hit local cinemas Wednesday. The upcoming film stars Hwang Jung-min and Lee Jung-jae, and is currently topping real-time ticket reservations.

With tentpole films from major distributors towing the box office, recent months have seen a steady rise in the number of cinemagoers, rising from an all-time monthly low of 972,000 in April to 5.62 million in July with the start of the peak summer season.

Although the numbers have shown a steep upward climb, cinemas are far from their old normal. According to KOFIC data, the overall number of moviegoers in the first half of this year plummeted by 70.3 percent compared to the same period last year. Although July’s figure stood at the highest since the fallout from COVID-19, the figure was an all-time low box office number for July since the agency started compiling such data in 2004.

“Most people are still wary of activities in public spaces due to the COVID-19 situation. Although big titles are opening, we’re still very cautious in promoting films and ushering in people to the cinemas,” head of CGV’s communications team Hwang Jae-hyeon told The Korea Herald. 

The lack of foreign summer blockbusters that typically pull in large audience figures is another factor contributing to the slow recovery. Four of the most popular films in July last year were all from Hollywood: “Spider-Man: Far From Home,” “The Lion King,” “Aladdin” and “Toy Story 4.”

“In the case of this summer, although the local distributors are starting to release their tentpole films, most of the highly anticipated foreign film releases have been canceled or postponed indefinitely. The absence of such films that can attract moviegoers is considerable,” a public relations official from Lotte Cinema said.

Yet cinema operators have higher hopes for August.

“With ‘Deliver Us From Evil’ as a start, we have at least one new Korean film opening every week this month, and on Aug. 26, Christopher Nolan’s ‘Tenet’ will hit theaters. We anticipate ticket sales to recover to up to at least 50 percent of the same period last year,” Hwang added. 

 

By Choi Ji-won (jwc@heraldcorp.com)

[Helena]

https://en.yna.co.kr/view/AEN20200806006800315
Korean crime thriller dominates box office on opening day

 

SEOUL, Aug. 6 (Yonhap) -- "Deliver Us From Evil," a homegrown film, debuted at No. 1 at the South Korean box office on its opening day, data showed Thursday.

The crime action thriller starring Hwang Jung-min and Lee Jung-jae attracted 344,922 moviegoers nationwide Wednesday, according to data from the Korean Film Council (KOFIC). The film accounted for 77.2 percent of all ticket sales revenue for the day.

Directed by Hong Won-chan, the film follows the story of In-nam, an assassin played by Hwang who becomes embroiled in unexpected incidents as Ray, played by Lee, pursues him to avenge his dead brother.

The political action film "Steel Rain 2: Summit" came in second, drawing 52,204 attendees, with the number of accumulative viewers reaching 1.29 million.

The South Korean zombie blockbuster "Peninsula," sequel to 2016's top grossing film "Train to Busan," finished third, with 25,506 viewers. The film's combined attendees reached 3.57 million.

 

A still image from the action thriller "Deliver Us From Evil" provided by CJ Entertainment (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)

 

 

odissy@yna.co.kr
(END)

 

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Images: https://twitter.com/cjenmmovie/

 

[Helena]

https://zapzee.net/2020/08/08/deliver-us-from-evil-surpasses-1-million-viewers-in-just-4-days/
‘Deliver Us From Evil’ Surpasses 1 Million Viewers In Just 4 Days

by krishkim

Credit: CJ Entertainment

 

The movie Deliver Us From Evil has surpassed 1 million viewers in just 4 days.

According to the Korea Film Council, Deliver Us From Evil has exceeded 1 million viewers as of 8:00 a.m. on August 8 KST.

The movie has amassed over 1,078,000 moviegoers since its release on August 5, putting it on par with Peninsula and New World (movie starring Hwang Jung Min & Lee Jung Jae).

So far, Peninsula and Deliver Us From Evil has surpassed 1 million viewers in 4 days while Steel Rain 2: Summit attracted 1 million moviegoers in 5 days, showing the “revival” of movie theaters.

Credit: CJ Entertainment

In commemoration, actors Lee Jung Jae and Park Jung Min posed for a celebratory photo with director Hong Won Chan and cinematographer Hong Kyung Pyo while holding up placards that read, “To the 1 million moviegoers who watched Deliver Us from Evil, we love you.”

 

Hwang Jung Min, who is currently filming a new movie in Jordan, also shared a photo of himself with the message, “Thank you for 1 million.”

Credit: CJ Entertainment

Deliver Us from Evil is a hard-boiled chase action that depicts the desperate pursuit and struggle of In Nam (Hwang Jung Min), who gets caught up in a new case because of his final contract killing mission, and Ray (Lee Jung Jae), his ruthless pursuer.

 

Source (1)

 

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Watch Lee Jung Jae and Hwang Jung Min in their iconic 2013 movie “New World” below:

 

WATCH NOW

 

 

[Helena]

https://en.yna.co.kr/view/AEN20200810002900315
Local crime thriller scores big at weekend box office

SEOUL, Aug. 10 (Yonhap) -- "Deliver Us From Evil," a homegrown action film, attracted over 1 million moviegoers in South Korea over the weekend, bringing the number of accumulative viewers to over 2 million, data showed Monday.

The crime action thriller starring Hwang Jung-min and Lee Jung-jae attracted 1,071,248 moviegoers between Saturday and Sunday, according to data from the Korean Film Council.

Combined audience members for "Evil" reached 2.02 million within five days, breaking the 2 million-mark two days faster than director Yeon Sang-ho's zombie blockbuster "Peninsula."

Directed by Hong Won-chan, the film follows the story of In-nam, an assassin played by Hwang who becomes embroiled in unexpected incidents as Ray, played by Lee, pursues him to avenge his dead brother.

This image, provided by CJ Entertainment, shows a scene from South Korean action film "Deliver Us From Evil" featuring lead actor Lee Jung-jae. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)

Political action film "Steel Rain 2: Summit" came in second, drawing 155,814 attendees, with the number of accumulative viewers reaching 1.54 million. "Peninsula," sequel to 2016's top grossing film "Train to Busan," finished third, with 74,279 viewers. The film's combined attendees reached 3.69 million.

"Evil" has also apparently given a much-needed boost to the film industry in terms of drawing people to the box office.

The number of daily moviegoers reached 729,450 on Saturday, setting the biggest daily high since the 1.22 million figure on Jan. 27, just before the mass outbreak of COVID-19.

Due to the fallout from the COVID-19 pandemic, the South Korean box office was in a deep slump for about four months, with daily admissions slumping to as low as 15,000 in April.

 

Spoiler

The stars of the movie "Deliver Us From Evil" -- Park Jung-min (L) and Lee Jung-jae (R) -- along with director Hong Won-chan (C) pose for a photo during a publicity event on July 28, 2020. (Yonhap)

odissy@yna.co.kr
(END)

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https://www.soompi.com/article/1418102wpp/deliver-us-from-evil-becomes-fastest-film-of-the-summer-to-reach-2-million-moviegoers
[by E. Cha | Aug 9, 2020] .....In celebration of the film’s new accomplishment, stars Lee Jung Jae and Park Jung Min posed for photos while holding up handwritten messages of gratitude. Lee Jung Jae’s message read, “Thank you to the 2 million moviegoers who watched ‘Deliver Us from Evil,'” while Park Jung Min’s read, “‘Deliver Us from Evil’ hit 2 million! Thank you so much for loving our movie. Please stay healthy and safe in this hot and humid time!”

Spoiler

 

 

https://twitter.com/cjenmmovie/

 

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[Box Office - Daily] DELIVER US FROM EVIL

Day / Daily Admission (people) / Total Admission (people) / Daily Rank
Prior to opening: 5,134 [5,134]
Wed 2020-08-05: 344,916 [350,050] (#1)
Thu 2020-08-06: 285,470 [635,520]
Fri 2020-08-07: 318,272 [953,792]
Sat 2020-08-08: 565,757 [1,519,549]
Sun 2020-08-09: 505,491 [2,025,040]

Mon 2020-08-10: 203,367 [2,228,380]
Tue 2020-08-11: 182,009 [2,410,389]

Wed 2020-08-12: 152,499 [2,562,888]

Thu 2020-08-13: 138,804 [2,701,692]
Fri 2020-08-14: 212,996 [2,914,688]

Sat 2020-08-15: 329,653 [3,244,338]
Sun 2020-08-16: 298,794 [3,543,132]
Mon 2020-08-17: 192,942 [3,736,074]
Tue 2020-08-18: 74,858 [3,810,932]
Wed 2020-08-19: 63,898 [3,874,830]
Thu 2020-08-20: 49,718 [3,924,548]
Fri 2020-08-21: 49,518 [3,974,066]
Sat 2020-08-22: 70,149 [4,044,215]
Sun 2020-08-23: 61,870 [4,106,085]
Mon 2020–8-24: 30,407 [4,136,492]

Source: http://www.kobis.or.kr/

[Helena]

https://zapzee.net/2020/08/13/behind-the-scenes-stories-of-movie-deliver-us-from-evil/
Behind-the-Scenes Stories of Movie ‘Deliver Us From Evil’

by krishkim | ImagesCredit: CJ Entertainment

 

 

Deliver Us From Evil continues to sweep theaters in the second week of its release. Especially, the powerful action scenes in Deliver Us From Evil, which were not seen in Korean films before, are considered to be the reason for its success. The new style that excited the audience was created by adhering to realistic filming methods ranging from location to action. We will look at the hidden efforts of the actors and staff.

 

 

100% Location Filming!

 

Spoiler

Deliver Us From Evil was filmed in various locations, including Korea, Japan, and Thailand, without building a filming site. Even the parts the needed filming Korea were done in actual locations, not filming sites, and the elevator scene featuring Hwang Jung Min’s action sequences was also filmed with the actual place. Cinematographer Hong Kyung Pyo said, “It’s usually shot in a spacious filming studio, but for Deliver Us From Evil, I personally held the camera and filmed the scene inside the elevator. It wasn’t easy, but when we break through such limitations, we can convey a realistic feeling to the audience,” explaining why the project was conducted in a narrow space.

 

 

Actors’ Passionate Performances

 

In Deliver Us From Evil, actors digested tough action sequences themselves. In fact, after several safety checks and rehearsals, Hwang Jung Min performed many advanced action scenes, including climbing down the building or throwing his body into a car window. Lee Jung Jae also did various gun action scenes, which the actors themselves requested. Hwang Jung Min also did the car-chasing scenes shown in the second half of the movie personally. Cinematographer Hong Kyung Pyo said, “We originally planned on taking close-up shots of the actor then film a moving car and the stunt with a high-speed camera. But Hwang Jung Min said he would do it himself, so he proceeded without the stunt. Though it was a difficult job to film inside a car, he even asked for a re-take for better expressions. Looking at the result, the scene came more alive,” emphasizing the actors’ efforts.

 

 

Realistic Filming that Captures the Scene

 

Deliver Us From Evil minimized the visual effects and captured the scene to maximize the realism of the film that the production team wanted to pursue. The gunfight scene at Lan Yao Village, also considered the highlight of the movie, was full of efforts to make it as realistic as possible. In addition to thorough preparation by local gun experts and staff, the gunfighting scene, which was conducted through proper safety management, was shot by firing actual bullets. Thanks to this, the scene included real guns, real sparks, and real bullets. Also, the scene that shows a magnificent red sky in Korea was filmed after Hong Kyung Pyo successfully captured the scene after a long wait.

[Helena]

https://www.koreatimes.co.kr/www/art/2020/08/689_294325.html
'Deliver Us from Evil' soars at local box office

By Lee Gyu-lee | 2020-08-13

The crime-action film "Deliver Us from Evil" topped the local box office after its release on Aug. 5. Courtesy of CJ ENM

 

 

The crime-action film "Deliver Us from Evil" has topped the local box office for a week since it hit theaters on Aug. 5. 

The film, which opened with 2.9 billion won ($2.4 million) in ticket sales, has sold about 2.6 million tickets as of Wednesday, grossing 22.2 billion won ($18.8 million).

A poster for the movie. / Courtesy of CJ ENM

 

 

The hard-boiled action thriller, directed by Hong Won-chan, whose work includes the thriller "Office," revolves around hitman In-nam ― played by Hwang Jung-min ― who is about to retire.

But before he can carry out his last hit, he learns that he has a nine-year-old daughter and she has been kidnapped in Thailand. 

Searching for his daughter in Bangkok, he gets pursued by contract killer Ray ― played by Lee Jung-jae ― who is seeking revenge on In-nam for killing his brother. 

The palm-sweating action ― car chases, gunfights and hand-to-hand combat ― develops as the hitman and the contract killer play a cat-and-mouse game. 

This is the second action flick that veteran actors Hwang and Lee have worked in together, after the mafia saga "New World" in 2013.

Noting that Hwang influenced him to take the role, Lee said during a recent interview that they "wanted to top their performance from 'New World' with this film." 

And as he said, the two show incredible chemistry through the edge-of-the-seat action scenes. 

 

Spoiler

A poster for the comedy-action film "Okay! Madam."/ Courtesy of Planit

 

Meanwhile, comedy-action film "Okay! Madam" landed in second spot on the box office chart on its opening day, Wednesday. 

The film had over 111,000 ticket sales on the day, collecting 919 million won ($776,000). 

The flight-hijacking comedy, directed by Lee Cheol-ha, follows a married couple ― played by Uhm Jung-hwa and Park Sung-woong ― on a free trip to Hawaii. 

A supposed to be a refreshing getaway becomes a nightmare when a terrorist group hijacks the aircraft and holds the passengers hostage. The couple then take up the fight against the terrorists to save fellow passengers. 

As "Okay! Madam" took second place at the box office, action blockbuster "Steel Rain 2: Summit" slipped to third with about 18,000 ticket sales on Wednesday. 

The film, which topped the chart for a week after premiering on July 29, has sold about 1.6 million tickets, grossing 13.3 billion won ($11.2 million).

The standalone sequel to the 2017 action film "Steel Rain" is about the leaders of North Korea, South Korea and the U.S. being kidnapped amid a three-way summit to sign a peace treaty of the Koreas.

Directed by the series' filmmaker Yang Woo-suk, the movie stars Jung Woo-sung as the South Korean leader, Yoo Yeon-seok as the North Korean leader and Angus MacFadyen as the U.S. president.

The 15.4 billion won-budget film was highly anticipated before its release because of its unique concept of kidnapped leaders in a coup and undersea thriller in a submarine. However, it seems that the film has fallen short of meeting the success many expected.

 

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https://twitter.com/cjenmmovie/

[Helena]

https://www.koreanfilm.or.kr/eng/news/news.jsp?seq=5390&mode=VIEW
LEE Jung-jae Goes on the HUNT for Directorial Debut

by Pierce Conran | Aug 13, 2020

Actor to Direct and Star Alongside JUNG Woo-sung

Veteran actor LEE Jung-jae, who is back on screens this week in the action-thriller DELIVER US FROM EVIL, is about to embark on a new phase of his career, after signing on to make his directorial debut with the film Hunt (literal title), to be made from his own script. LEE is also planning to star in the production, which may also feature his close friend and now fellow actor-director JUNG Woo-sung, currently on screens in the geopolitical action-drama Steel Rain2: Summit.

The film will follow a pair of National Intelligence Service (NIS) operatives who chase down a spy ring. LEE, who reportedly spent four years penning the screenplay, will play the character Park Pyeong-ho. JUNG is considering the role of Kim Jeong-do. Close friends in real life, LEE and JUNG last appeared on screen together in the City of The Rising Sun (1999). After helming several shorts, JUNG is currently directing his feature debut, The Protector (translated title).

After debuting as a model and TV star in the mid-1990s, LEE turned into a movie star through E J-yong’s An Affair in 1998. His many credits include romantic drama Il Mare (2000), action-thriller Typhoon (2005), drama-thriller The Housemaid (2010), caper film The Thieves (2012), gangland thriller New World (2013), period drama The Face Reader (2013) and spy thriller Assassination (2015).

LEE has teamed up with Megabox Plus M, which will distribute his film. Hunt is expected to go into production in 2021. The actor is currently on promotional duties for DELIVER US FROM EVIL, in which he co-stars with HWANG Jung-min.