Actor Ji Chang-wook is again with one other high-octane function — this time in Disney+’s upcoming motion sequence “The Manipulated,” the place he performs a person whose life is shattered by a false accusation.
The sequence, which premieres Wednesday, guarantees a contemporary mix of suspense and emotional depth that units it other than its cinematic inspiration: “Fabricated Metropolis.”
A press convention for “The Manipulated” befell on the Conrad Seoul on Monday with director Park Shin-woo and forged members Ji Chang-wook, Doh Kyung-soo, Kim Jong-soo, Jo Yoon-soo and Lee Kwang-soo in attendance.
Directed by Park — identified for “White Night time,” “The Killing Vote” and “Lure” — and written by Oh Sang-ho of “The Roundup: Punishment,” and “Taxi Driver,” the sequence follows Tae-jung (Ji), an abnormal man whose life collapses after being wrongfully accused of a heinous crime. When he learns that the whole incident was orchestrated by a person named Johan (Doh), he units out on a path of vengeance.
Tae-jung, a hardworking supply employee who desires of opening a small backyard cafe whereas caring for his youthful sister, finds his world upended when police all of a sudden arrest him on fabricated expenses.
The drama’s creators promise intense chases, motorbike stunts and tightly woven conflicts between advanced characters — providing what Ji calls “a brand new chapter in motion storytelling.”
Director Park mentioned Ji was his first and solely selection for the function. “From the second this venture was confirmed as a drama, Ji confirmed nice dedication and fervour,” he mentioned. “I actually couldn’t think about anybody else enjoying Tae-jung.”
Ji, who has made his mark in each movie and tv with works akin to “Revolver,” “Fabricated Metropolis,” “Gangnam B-Facet” and “The Worst of Evil,” mentioned he was drawn to the venture for its emotional depth.
“Once I first learn the script, I assumed it may provide so many layers for viewers,” he mentioned. “Moderately than specializing in constructing a posh character, I wished to convey Tae-jung’s feelings as they unfold in every state of affairs and permit the viewers to comply with his ache and willpower.”
Though “The Manipulated” reimagines “Fabricated Metropolis” for the small display, Ji mentioned he approached it with out linking the 2 roles. “I didn’t need to recreate what I had already executed. That is a completely totally different character,” he mentioned. “The author instructed me he wished Tae-jung to have the power of a tree — that grew to become my largest problem.”
Ji additionally expressed gratitude to veteran actor Kim Jong-soo, who performs Noh Yong-sik, Tae-jung’s savior. “It was a tricky shoot, however having Kim on set gave me power,” Ji mentioned.
Forged members pose throughout a press convention for the Disney+ unique sequence “The Manipulated” on the Conrad Seoul in Yeongdeungpo District, Seoul, on Monday. From left: Kim Jong-soo, Jo Yoon-soo, Ji Chang-wook, Doh Kyung-soo and Lee Kwang-soo. Yonhap
“Even when his scenes had been completed, I didn’t need him to depart.” Kim responded warmly, saying, “In our earlier venture, he killed my character. However Ji is an extremely devoted actor with actual ardour for his work.”
Doh Kyung-soo takes on his first villain function as Johan, a mastermind who manipulates proof and orchestrates crimes only for the joys of it. As the top of an elite personal safety agency catering to the highest one %, Johan enjoys engineering chaos from behind the scenes.
“I wished him to look unsettling,” Doh mentioned. “I experimented with my look — perming, dyeing my hair, sporting flashy fits — and drew inspiration from villains in movies and documentaries.”
Lee Kwang-soo joins the forged as Baek Do-kyung, Johan’s right-hand man who wields each energy and wealth. “The script contained scenes I’d by no means seen earlier than, and I used to be curious to see how they’d be realized,” Lee mentioned. “My character is despicable — I even spat on the script whereas studying it as a result of I hated him a lot. I wished to verify the viewers feels that very same disgust.”
Doh and Lee, identified for his or her shut friendship via varied selection reveals, mentioned working collectively introduced each consolation and focus.
“Kwang-soo may be cussed and exhausting in actual life,” Doh joked, “however on set, his presence gave me confidence. I discovered a lot from him — he’s at all times skilled and considerate.” Lee added, “I anxious our friendship may make it awkward to behave collectively, nevertheless it truly helped. Due to Doh and Ji, I used to be capable of absolutely benefit from the shoot.”
With its gripping revenge story, emotional performances, and fast-paced motion, “The Manipulated” goals to ship each spectacle and depth. As Ji summed up, “This drama is a few man preventing to reclaim his damaged life — and in that battle, I hope viewers can really feel his power, rage and humanity.”
This text from the Hankook Ilbo, the sister publication of The Korea Occasions, is translated by generative AI and edited by The Korea Occasions.
