WORLDS APART: An interview with Shiri director Kang Je-Gyu
By Warren Curry
2/4/02
Part two:
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WORLDS APART: An interview with Shiri director Kang Je-Gyu By Warren Curry Part two: |
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From what you know of American audiences, how do you view their tastes?
I do have access to U.S. box office reports in Korea, and therefore have a chance to see what American audiences like. I think that most American audiences prefer films that express some form of American pride. That's what they seem to like the most.
How long did it take to make the film and what was the most difficult part of the process?
It took approximately two years to complete this film. Before I started shooting the movie, the actors trained for three months because of the physically demanding nature of the roles. However, the most difficult part of making this project was writing the script. The script is the most important part of the film.
The film is very stylized; it contains many elaborate set-ups and camera moves. Can you point to any specific films or filmmakers that may have influenced this style?
There were no specific films that particularly influenced me, but I have had the opportunity to see many movies from all over the world, so gradually I was influenced by a broad scope of work.
Are you interested in pursuing a career in the U.S.?
Of course, I do have some hope that I can come to the U.S. and make a film with American actors and actresses, but I do not want to limit myself by only working in the U.S. Wherever an opportunity arises is where I want to make films. I'd like to travel around and make films in the U.S. and Korea.
Although I haven't seen The Ginko Bed, I understand it's quite different than Shiri. Are you afraid of being labeled as strictly an "action" director?
It would be very natural for audiences to think that I'm strictly an action director, but, of course, that isn't entirely true. If they have a chance to see my next film, they will be very confused as to what style I focus on the most. I want to try my hand at several different styles of filmmaking.
What sort of expectations do you have for this film in the U.S.?
I don't have any expectations that Shiri will be big box office hit like it was in Korea. I do have a personal goal that I want to reach with the film and I've already reached it, so I'm satisfied. As far as box office expectations, that is something I might expect with my next film.
What is the next project you're working on?
Right now, I'm working on a film that is about the Korean War. I'm currently writing the script and it should be released to the public in June of 2003.
After the success of Shiri are you optimistic that the art form of film can create social awareness and social change?
I think that film is one important tool
that can be used to convey a social message to bring about change.
My hope, of course, is that most people would feel the same way.
Don't forget to check out Warren's Shiri Review
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