Amongst the cast of Warrior, the martial arts crime show that blends old western and eastern film elements together, actress Olivia Cheng stands out as Madam Ah Toy, a brothel owner that challenges the traditional expectations for a leading lady in 19th century San Francisco. 

In an exclusive interview with EnVi, Cheng offers a candid glimpse into her seven year long journey with the series, diving into the complexities of her character’s evolution, the found family within the Warrior team, and her own aspirations both on and off the screen. As Cheng settled into the conversation over Zoom in a comfy gray hoodie, it became clear that her passion for storytelling goes beyond the surface, weaving a recollected narrative that celebrates the triumphs and tribulations that have shaped the legacy of Warrior and its unforgettable cast. 

Keyword: Resilience  

After the show’s second cancellation on Max (HBO Max) following their move from Cinemax, the prospect of Warrior continuing their engaging storylines seemed hopeless. However, just like the resilient fight the cast’s on-screen counterparts often put up, the series was given new life on the global stage of Netflix, much to the delight of fans worldwide. Navigating the ever-shifting landscape of streaming platforms, Cheng reflected on the rollercoaster of emotions that accompanied the show’s transition from Max to Netflix. 

She often found solace in the resounding support of fans, whose fervor reignited her own excitement for the series’ newfound home. Cheng shared candid moments of anticipation she had with co-star Dean Jagger and Chen Tang on the possibility of returning to the canceled series, saying, “We were sitting there going, ‘Like that’d be crazy if we actually came back,’ you know, and other people have been asking, ‘Well, you know, have you guys thought about season four storylines?’ And we’ve definitely thought about it. But I think we’re just also trying to keep our expectations in check.” As whispers of a potential season four brewed, Cheng and her fellow warriors grappled with the weight of expectations, balancing hope with the sobering reality of the industry’s unforgiving terrain. What has truly motivated the cast in their digital battle for survival has been the unyielding dedication from viewers. 

A Legacy to Uphold

Back in 2015, the new world of Warrior was ripe with unexpected endeavors for Olivia Cheng and the rest of the cast, as they adjusted into their roles and found their footing with a highly anticipated pilot series. Transported to South Africa, far from familiar surroundings, the Warrior team embarked on a journey in the looming shadow of Bruce Lee’s legacy. Despite the daunting task, a sense of camaraderie emerged among the cast, fueled by their shared commitment to supporting each other and honoring Bruce Lee’s daughter, Shannon Lee, and her vision. 

Navigating the delicate balance between honoring and introducing Bruce Lee’s cinematic legacy was a challenge for Cheng and the Warrior cast. Admitting her initial limited knowledge of Lee’s impact, Cheng commented on the profound influence of the show on deepening her understanding of his legacy, sharing, “I probably represent a certain, you know, segment of folks out there who knew that a Bruce Lee existed, had seen him on a t-shirts with the staff, had seen all your male Asian friends want to be Bruce.” However while witnessing Shannon Lee reclaiming control of her father’s likeness and intellectual property, Cheng saw the significance of Lee cultivating her own style whilst guarding his legacy. 

Cheng noted that lead actor Andrew Koji, who shoulders the weight of embodying Bruce Lee’s philosophy, had the increasing pressure to authentically represent the martial arts legend. “The biggest question for Andrew Koji,” she said, was that he “probably felt a lot of pressure to find his version of an authentic expression of [him]self, and you know, not imitating others.” However, through his conversations with Shannon and studying source materials, Koji found guidance in channeling Bruce Lee’s essence while staying true to his own interpretation. Infusing subtle nods to Lee’s mannerisms and physicality, such as his distinctive weight distribution and shoulder staggering, Koji wove Easter eggs into his performance. His efforts paid homage to Lee’s legacy while crafting Koji’s own unique expression of the warrior spirit. 

The Many Masks of Ah Toy

For Olivia Cheng, becoming the enigmatic Madam Ah Toy didn’t demand as strict of a balance between historical accuracy and fictional interpretation. In fact, the actress found herself navigating uncharted territory, devoid of firsthand accounts or personal recorded insights from Ah Toy. This allowed Cheng more creative freedom. 

Unlike her castmates with rich martial arts backgrounds, Cheng approached Ah Toy’s fighting style with a unique perspective shaped by her gymnastics background and a reliance on her skilled stunt double, Tong Yau. Even with her lack of formal martial arts training, Cheng was able to adjust to stunt choreography through direction and her meticulous attention to detail. Her dedication and adaptability shines through her action scenes, underscoring her commitment to authenticity for the screen.  

Pride and a sense of accomplishment radiated through Cheng’s words as she recounted her evolution throughout the seasons. “It feels like it was the first time that I felt free to express the emotion of the moment instead of just [being] so caught up in trying to remember the choreography and these moves that aren’t natural to me,” she said. In particular the series’ season three marked a significant shift in her approach to portraying Ah Toy. She embodied a newfound freedom and embraced the raw emotionality of her character, a deep contrast to her eccentric, sharp outfits and sleek stunt choreography in earlier seasons.

Initially grappling with the character’s portrayal as a sex worker, Cheng admitted to confronting personal biases. “I think one of the hardest things as an actor to do is to always understand their circumstance and find that part in you that if you were in those circumstances, with the limited choices that were presented to you, would you be above doing some of the things they have to do to stay alive, to find some level of thriving.”

However, as the layers of Ah Toy’s character began to unfold through the script, Cheng found herself befriending the complexity in her role. As the series progresses, viewers are granted glimpses into Ah Toy’s inner thoughts and conflicts, challenging preconceived notions and allowing for a deeper understanding of her motivations. 

The season was a testament to Cheng honing her craft and pushing her physical and emotional boundaries. Her new approach enriched her performance as Ah Toy with a depth and authenticity that resonated with audiences. As she looked back on her trajectory, Cheng’s satisfaction is a reflection of the self-discovery and artistic fulfillment that Warrior has given her. She said it felt like season three is “the first time in nine years” where it felt like “now it’s starting to look like the way I want it to work.”

A Lady’s Armor 

At first glance, Ah Toy’s fashion sense may seem like a personal style choice, but is in fact a calculated technique. Cheng shared her insight on the layers of her character’s fashion choices, emphasizing their role in surrounding her persona in mystique. Each outfit is a unique spectacle that draws patrons in, but beneath the glitz and glamor are costumes that serve as both her shield and burden. Notably, season three unveils the unexpected emotional toll that donning her signature attire has on her.

It reveals the hidden struggles and sacrifices behind Ah Toy’s public image as she forces herself to put on the extravagant clothes to get back to work as a Madam after witnessing her workers slaughtered before her without being able to save any of them. Through Cheng’s nuanced portrayal, viewers gained a deeper understanding of Ah Toy’s complex relationship with fashion, witnessing the delicate balance between empowerment and vulnerability in her survival.

The actress’s fondness for Ah Toy’s wardrobe is understandable with the amount of thoughtful symbolism woven into each garment. Cheng reminisced on several iconic outfits, from her green dress in season two — a symbol of Ah Toy’s cunning intellect and prowess in navigating white society’s prejudices. She also recalled the unforgettable femme fatale moment orchestrated by show creator Jonathan Tropper, where Ah Toy descended the stairs in a custom couture gown. 

The meticulously crafted pieces, made to fit her body, convey deeper emotional layers. From her stunning gown adorned with roses to the symbolic cage motif, each outfit tells a story, amplifying Ah Toy’s character. Cheng gave a special nod to the collaborative efforts of the production designers, makeup and hair department, and wardrobe team for their integral role in bringing her character to life. 

Memories from an Era 

Within the seven years of work and passion poured into the show, it’s no surprise that the Warrior team became a family. During the filming of season one, the cast embarked on a journey to explore Camps Bay, a picturesque destination that left a lasting impression on Cheng and her co-stars. As they gathered on the shores of one of the world’s most beautiful beaches surrounded by the breathtaking scenery of South Africa, a sense of camaraderie enveloped the group. “And it was just that sweet spot where we weren’t completely exhausted and running on fumes. Because by the end of the season, you’re always running on fumes. It was just one of the first times we hung as a group and we didn’t really know each other yet.” 

Despite the demanding schedule and challenges of filming with new friends, the breathtaking views offered a chance for the cast to bond and forge connections amidst the golden glow of the South African sunset. For Cheng, it was more than just a casual outing, it was a teaser of the genuine friendships and shared experiences they would have in years to come, defining their time together on and off screen.

Directing her Own Future

Although she couldn’t share much, Cheng revealed that her talents extend far beyond the screen, as she’s been busy delving into the realm of documentary filmmaking. The actress teased that the unnamed project with Network Entertainment has been in the works for awhile. In fact, Cheng is currently immersed in directing the documentary that promises to illuminate untold stories. 

One thing became abundantly clear when speaking with Olivia Cheng: her passion for storytelling knows no bounds. From her transformative portrayal of Madam Ah Toy in Warrior to her ventures into documentary filmmaking, Cheng embodies a commitment to authenticity and excellence in every endeavor. 

While the future of Warrior remains uncertain, the show’s impact and the devoted fanbase speak volumes about its enduring legacy. Whether the series finds new life on the screen or takes its place among cherished memories, the contributions by its team ensure that its spirit will continue to resonate with audiences for years to come. 

Want more exclusive ACT!ON interviews? Check out our interview with Michelle Krusiec here!

The post A Warrior’s Resilience: The Journey of Olivia Cheng appeared first on EnVi Media.

After securing the Sundance Audience Award and being selected as Australia’s submission for the Best International Feature Film category at the 2024 Oscars, Shayda garnered significant attention. Directed by Noora Niasari and produced by Cate Blanchett, Shayda explores the challenges faced by an Iranian mother fighting for safe shelter and custody of her daughter, Mona, amid a turbulent divorce. The screenplay, which is partly autobiographical, delicately balances themes of pain and resilience. In doing so, Shayda offers a portrayal that is both heartwarming and heart-wrenching.

The film features remarkable performances by Zar Amir Ebrahimi, who is known for her award-winning role in Holy Spider, the Danish entry for the 2022 Cannes Best Actress Award; Selina Zahednia, who delivers a remarkable child performance; and Osamah Sami, who gives a chilling and perfectly nuanced performance. Shayda keeps audiences captivated with its blend of suspense, emotion, and drama. In an interview with EnVi via Zoom, Noora Niasari shared how she balances portraying joy, strength, and resilience in her directorial debut.

Behind Shayda

Shayda draws inspiration from Niasari’s personal experience of living in a women’s shelter in Australia in the 1990s with her mother. Witnessing her mother’s strength and resilience in overcoming obstacles to provide a better life inspired a profound sense of admiration and motivation in the filmmaker. Niasari was also driven to authentically portray the world of a women’s shelter and the complexities of escaping domestic violence. “The goal was to capture these experiences with authenticity and truth.” Niasari told EnVi The director wanted to ensure that the film resonates with those who have faced similar challenges.

Cultural Celebration and Personal Renewal

When making Shayda, Niasari avoided portraying the protagonist as a victim by focusing on themes of hope, self-determination, and agency. By prioritizing Shayda’s journey toward empowerment, Niasari aimed to engage the audience as active participants in the unfolding narrative of domestic violence. “This decision to depict events in real time, starting with Shayda in the women’s shelter, allows viewers to intimately understand her circumstances, her resilience, and her eventual triumph,” she explained. Niasari’s commitment to female empowerment guided her entire creative process, ensuring a delicate balance between light and dark throughout the screenplay and the finished film.

The Persian New Year — Nowruz — serves as a poignant metaphor in Shayda, grounding the story in themes of renewal, cultural identity, and personal growth. Through the lens of this celebration, Shayda’s journey becomes a reflection of reclaiming one’s heritage and finding strength in cultural traditions. Niasari’s personal experience of celebrating the Nowruz in Australia, during autumn instead of spring, adds a layer of complexity to Shayda‘s narrative. “This juxtaposition shows shedding the old and embracing new beginnings, even in the absence of the traditional springtime imagery,” she emphasized. “Ultimately, Nowruz symbolizes Shayda’s inner resilience and ability to rise above the darkness.”

Challenges and Triumphs of Filmmaking

Niasari’s filmmaking journey started in 2015 when she traveled to Spain. Once there, she received guidance from renowned Iranian filmmaker Abbas Kiarostami. Niasari’s filmmaking portfolio includes documentaries and narrative shorts shot worldwide. Her work has a recurring emphasis on themes such as memory, impermanence, childhood, and the inner lives of the Iranian diaspora. Notably, her film Waterfall was nominated for Best Short Film at the 66th Melbourne International Film Festival (MIFF), along with Tâm and the feature documentary Casa Antúnez.

Niasari admitted that the transition from short films to a feature debut brought significant challenges and differences. The longer duration of shooting, involving a larger crew and cast, and the pressure due to budget constraints created a more demanding environment. “The filming project started in 2017, from the inception of writing and research to ongoing publicity in 2024,” Niasari recalled. “Highlighting the prolonged commitment required for a feature-length project.” Through this process, she learned the importance of self-care for a sustainable career in filmmaking, as well as the value of having the right team to tackle the challenges of ambitious projects. 

Despite the challenges, certain aspects of the filmmaking process stood out as particularly enjoyable for Niasari. She expressed a fondness for the dancing scenes between Shayda, her daughter Mona, and other women in the shelter, as well as the exhilarating experience of shooting the nightclub scene. These moments of joy and creative exploration added depth to the film and reflected Niasari’s commitment to portraying moments of lightness amidst the darker themes of the narrative.

“It was a really beautiful thing to see, unfold and to nurture and to capture,” expressed Niasari to EnVi. “Because that is really the heart of the film, the mother-daughter connection and the love they have for each other.”

When discussing the screenplay and working with actors, Niasari also emphasized the importance of Zar Amir Ebrahimi’s contribution to the role of Shayda. “Zar Amir Ebrahimi’s performance went beyond the words on the page, bringing a depth of emotion and personal experience that enriched Shayda’s character,” Niasari said. “The dynamic between Shayda and Mona, her daughter, was crucial to the film’s emotional core.” 

This bond was established early on through rehearsals, ensuring that the actors had a genuine connection that translated on screen. The authentic relationship between the characters mirrored the real-life friendship that developed between the actors, highlighting the film’s focus on the profound mother-daughter connection.

The Impact of Shayda and Future Endeavors

“I hope that Shayda will raise awareness about domestic abuse and immigrant experiences, not only for those directly affected but also for those unfamiliar with these issues,” stated Niasari as she reflected on the impact she hopes Shayda has on viewers. Additionally, the film aims to celebrate women and Iranian culture, offering a nuanced portrayal of these aspects of the story.

“Winning the [Audience] award really showed how universal the film is,” Niasari told EnVi, referring to how she felt when she won the Audience Award at Sundance. “And it’s the greatest gift to a filmmaker to have films that resonate with people.” 

Winning the award at Sundance demonstrated the film’s universal appeal, validating its ability to resonate with diverse audiences. Building on this success, Niasari is now working on a trilogy about Iranian women and eagerly anticipates her next challenge, an adaptation of the Iranian-American novel RAYA by Mahsa Rahmani Noble.

Want More ACT!ON content? Check out our interview with Seagrass director Meredith Hama-Brown here!

The post How Iranian Director Noora Niasari Portrays Strength and Empowerment in Her Debut Film “Shayda” appeared first on EnVi Media.

With over 20 years in the entertainment industry, Taiwanese American actress Michelle Krusiec is undeniably, what she calls herself, an “OG.” Paving the road toward more diversity in Hollywood since the 1990s, Krusiec has featured in countless critically acclaimed films and series. Since her breakout role as Wil Pang in Saving Face (2004)—the first movie in the 2000s centered on LGBTQ+ and Chinese American communities in Hollywood history, Krusiec has shattered Hollywood’s narrative and penciled in her own. 

Blazing through 2000s Hollywood and beyond through her own kind of revolution, Krusiec has long been the “godmother” of minority representation. Breaking through the barriers of “White Hollywood” with the wand of industry firsts, Krusiec has wished for and made true a new era of Asian American diversity in both film and TV. 

Determined to advocate for more inclusion herself, Krusiec has branched out from acting to other professions in the film industry—directing and writing. Trekking through the difficulties of being a multi-hyphenate Asian American woman in Hollywood, Krusiec has soared above structure and stigma. With her latest acting role in Float(2023) as an aunt that breaks the “crazy Asian auntie” stereotype, Michelle Krusiec chatted with EnVi over Zoom to talk love—in, of, and outside her works. 

ACTING: Float 

Written by Kate Merchant when she was a teenager, Float (2012) is a summer romance story that has garnered millions of fans since its debut on Wattpad—an online reading and publishing site for original written content. Adapted into a novel a decade later, then a WEBTOON series, and now made into a film, Float’s story dives into the sweet era of nostalgic rom-coms and a popular fan favorite—friends to lovers.

The film jumps straight into aspiring doctor Waverly, who decides that this summer is the last break she gets before starting residency. Packing her suitcase to escape the stress and pressure of becoming a doctor for once in her life, she heads to a hot, small beach town in Florida to meet up with her estranged Aunt Rachel. Unprepared for the heat and her hot lifeguard neighbor Blake, Waverly struggles to stay afloat of what she hopes isn’t a summer fling. 

Krusiec applauded the creative vision that director Sherren Lee brought into Float—her feature film debut. Adapting Waverly and Aunt Rachel as Asian American characters, “Sherren really made this cast very specific as a POC female director,” she said. This change in portraying characters that Asian Americans didn’t typically see was one that Krusiec felt necessary to represent in the AAPI community. 

Accepting Waverly with confused yet open arms, Aunt Rachel’s affectionate and light-hearted relationship with Waverly was one that worked against the strict Asian parental figure often seen in film. “I really liked Rachel because I feel like we all had those crazy auntie tropes, but this wasn’t the crazy aunt who’s out to get you and tell you that you’re too fat, you’re too skinny, all those things,” she expressed. 

With Waverly seeking out mental refuge in a place far away from home, Aunt Rachel provided a safe haven for Waverly to truly experience emotional depth that wasn’t intertwined with her career. “It was refreshing,” Krusiec declared. To see an onscreen character that wasn’t embedded in negativity or stereotypes was really about “playing a healthy character that I thought we needed to see in our community,” she urged.

Expanding on the easy warmth that Aunt Rachel exuded, Krusiec doted on her, insisting that she was just a “very wholesome and not superficial character in any way.” Embodying kindness as a strength and imparting her wisdom onto a conflicted Waverly, Aunt Rachel easily became a source of mentorship for Waverly and young viewers alike. Through Aunt Rachel’s warm yet wise soul, Krusiec found it particularly memorable to portray such a healing type of character. “Because Rachel gives Waverly such sound advice, I felt like it was good for me to play a character that had the answers,” she explained. “It’s because I’ve played so many characters before who didn’t have the answers.”

Wishing she had a person like Aunt Rachel in her youth, Krusiec expressed the unimaginable amount of comfort of having a mother figure’s unconditional support. Reflecting on her own experiences growing up with a Taiwanese mother that had difficulty expressing unconditional love, she filled in the gaps she felt in her young adult years through Aunt Rachel. Determined to embrace Rachel in a way that would speak volumes on maternal love, Krusiec approached portraying her as if she had “the ideal aunt who could have guided her when she was making big decisions in her 20s.” 

After becoming a mother, Krusiec laughed and quipped about her past portrayals of mothers “because [she] didn’t know what [she] was doing.” Jokingly referring to her unaware self before motherhood, she noted the turning point motherhood was in not only her life but also her acting. “Now that I’m a mom, there’s a need to see all kinds of different mothers and mothers with different identities,” she voiced. And with Aunt Rachel’s unique relationship with Waverly, this thought naturally shaped itself into their onscreen identities. “I certainly have embraced it, and I love applying whatever knowledge I’ve learned to those mother types now,” she said.

WRITING: Made in Taiwan

Writing to Krusiec was never an art that strayed far from her acting; it followed alongside her when she first entered the industry as an actress. However, after her acting debut, industry standards in the early 2000s dictated that she abandon her writing. “During that time, being a multi hyphenate was a pretty new thing. Back then, you had to pick a lane,” she explained. During a less inclusive climate that discouraged a secondary profession, Krusiec quickly found that the industry enforced her role as an actress over accepting her written POC material. But seeing revealing, personal stories was the entire appeal to young Krusiec and the reason she decided she would write her own.

Embracing writing to include stories that she wanted to see onscreen, Krusiec formed the idea to write her now one-woman show Made in Taiwan (2002). What started out as a couple of pages soon expanded into a fully-fledged autobiographical play. Wielding comedy and dramatic flair as her pen, Krusiec detailed an honest, raw piece about her chaotic family.

Tasked as the writer and the sole performer, she personally played all five roles of her father, mother, aunts, and herself in the intimate performance. Although the story was a personally-driven narrative that revealed anecdotal experiences, Krusiec recalls not feeling any vulnerability when sharing her story to the world. She just felt like it was a story that followed her natural instinct as a writer to “bear [herself] and talk about the scariest things.”

But Made in Taiwan was a different story as the only piece Krusiec released as a writer before her writing hiatus in pursuing her acting career. Taking up writing again nearly a decade later, Krusiec noted her own development as a person to be a monumental and essential part of being a more proficient writer.

Now having an arsenal that encapsulates stories beyond the coming of age genre, she wholly believes in the need to “bring more stories from our community into the general mainstream culture and have POC behind the lens.” In a climate that is now shaped to embrace more diversity and inclusion than ever before, she insisted on her trust in the art of storytelling that derives from one’s identity that can’t be replaced by another and most notably, a cis white man.

Upcoming: Tiger Mom

Working with director Shawn Chou and actor Ken Jeong in the upcoming film Tiger Momas a writer, Krusiec recalled the first time she received the script. Initially called Cult of the Tiger Mom, the story was a dark drama that heavily focused on the bitterness and violence of tiger parents. Transforming the old script into a more comedic take on a first-generation Chinese American family, Krusiec returned to her comedy roots. “I think it’s a great opportunity to talk about the culture, but also look at it from a comedic point of view of how it can help and hinder us,” she explained. “Comedy is about pain and suffering, but you can disarm someone when it’s comedic and the message might land better.” 

Drawing on her own experiences as now, both mother and daughter, and that teetering dynamic, Krusiec focused on tiger parenting as a multi-faceted practice. The story intends to showcase the pros and the cons of tiger parenting amidst its negative reputation in society. Tackling this culturally sensitive topic, the journey of the female characters was fleshed out from her own experiences. But to this, Krusiec revealed her own desire as a mother to not weaponize fear. “There should be a threshold of resilience, but the fear of failure, artistically and creatively in my experience, prevents you from growing,” she said. “If you don’t fail, you can’t grow.” And perhaps, that is the secret to her success—a blazing desire to try and bare yourself to the world.

ACTRESS-DIRECTOR-WRITER

Ushering in an era of diversity and inclusion, Krusiec brought in characters that Hollywood has never seen before. Since then, her acting prowess has grown to further embrace both experimental and familiar roles—leaving behind a trail for future AAPI actors to follow.

Float is now available to watch via select streaming services. To find out more about Michelle Krusiec’s upcoming content, check out her official website and Instagram.

Interested in more ACT!ON actor content? Read our piece on Lee Jun-yeong here!

The post Michelle Krusiec: The Godmother of Hollywood’s AAPI Representation  appeared first on EnVi Media.

In 2023, Seagrass premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival and gained international acclaim. The film won TIFF’s International Film Critics Prize and was nominated for Vancouver Film Critics Circle’s Best Screenplay as well as Best B.C. Director, which Meredith Hama-Brown took home. Then in February, Seagrass had its theatrical release in the United States and Canada. 

Seagrass is Hama-Brown’s debut feature film and stars Ally Maki as Judith, Luke Roberts as Steve, Remy Marthaller as Emmy, and Nyha Huang Breitkreuz as Stephanie. The film centers around Judith who, after the loss of her mother, brings her family to a couples’ retreat where she hopes to mend her strained relationship with her husband. The story explores Judith’s Japanese Canadian identity, her relationship with her Caucasian husband, and her inability to connect with either. It is also a story about the kids Emmy and Stephanie, who begin to feel the effects of their parents’ collapsing marriage. 

EnVi had the opportunity to speak with Vancouver-based director Meredith Hama-Brown over email about her filmmaking journey, the development of Seagrass, and the film’s exploration of grief and intergenerational trauma. 

A Film Worth Pursuing

Despite growing up with a love for storytelling, Hama-Brown recalled that she never saw filmmaking as a career path. “I didn’t grow up in a town with a film industry,” she said. “I probably learned that I wanted to be a filmmaker when I attended university and found my way into the film production program. It was there that I really started to cultivate a deep love for filmmaking.”

Hama-Brown began writing Seagrass in December of 2018 and drew from her Japanese Canadian heritage for the story. Similar to Judith and Steve, Hama-Brown’s mother is also Japanese Canadian and her father is Caucasian. They divorced when she was young, but the similarities with the Seagrass family end there.  

Seagrass actively explores the intergenerational trauma rooted in the unjust incarceration of Japanese Canadians during World War II. There is also a deep analysis of interracial marriages, with Judith being Japanese Canadian and her husband Steve being Caucasian. The film looks into the disconnect with one’s heritage as well as the potential microaggressions that can occur in an interracial marriage. So while the story of Seagrass is fictional, the emotions portrayed are very much real.

“Once I started writing and the pieces came into place, I knew that this would be a first feature film worth pursuing for me,” Hama-Brown said. “From the beginning of the writing process, I felt intuitively that this was the right story for me to tackle and something that I could see myself committing to for the many years it would take to make the film.”

Grief and Loss of Heritage

Grief manifests in many forms, and Hama-Brown spends time exploring the ways grief touches our lives. In Seagrass, Judith packs a blanket for their family trip, which viewers later learn was made by her mother who used to sew together old sweaters. With a single description, Hama-Brown effectively captured Judith’s own grief and the struggles of Japanese Canadians during World War II. As the film progresses, the audience comes to realize that this blanket tethers Judith to her mother — and her Japanese heritage.

There is a scene where Judith is comforting her younger daughter Emmy after a late night scare. The two sit on their porch with the blanket spread across their laps. Emmy asks, “What does Grandma like to do?”

Her mom responds, “She likes to see you.” 

To which Emmy asks, “But other than that?”

After a breathtaking pause that feels like eternity, Judith admits, “I don’t know.” This is the first of many instances where Judith faces questions about her mother — and her Japanese identity — that she cannot answer.

Judith isn’t just grappling with the loss of her mother in Seagrass. She is grappling with the loss of her only connection to her Japanese heritage, and Hama-Brown explores these nuanced layers of grief with great tenderness. 

The family’s grief and tension also are portrayed through the camerawork. Throughout the film, there are scenes where the camera sweeps into the room from above, indicating the possibility of the grandmother’s ghost watching over the family. These wide shots heighten the tension and sense of eeriness. 

When asked how she and cinematographer Norm Li came up with this idea, Hama-Brown responded, “This idea really started in the script stage as I wanted to have a camera that could represent the possibility of the grandmother’s ghost. So these sweeping camera moves could really be interpreted as the grandmother’s character as she watches over the family.” 

However, Hama-Brown didn’t want this to be “solely scary.” She wanted the camerawork to be interpreted symbolically as well. “This camera could represent the family’s fears, the sense of discomfort that weighs on them, the parts of their lives that they don’t understand and the intergenerational trauma that haunts them since the unjust incarceration of Japanese Canadians in the 1940s,” she said. “Either way, Norm and I talked about not making these camera moves feel solely scary but for them to also have an organic and beautiful aspect to them. This was important as no matter what these camera moves represent to viewers, in the end we wanted it to carry the message that in some way it looks over the family.”

Adolescence and the Loss of Innocence

Grief haunts Judith and her family in more ways than one. With each passing day, Judith confronts questions about her heritage. Meanwhile, Steve is unable to understand his wife’s struggles and is ill-equipped to console or connect with her. As their marriage deteriorates, it is Emmy and Stephanie who feel the repercussions of their parents’ pain. 

While their parents attend group couple’s therapy, the kids are allowed to explore the island. Stephanie, who is the oldest of the two, has an easier time making friends compared to Emmy who finds it hard to connect with the other kids. When she is shown a cave that’s said to be capable of communicating with ghosts, Emmy begins to believe that her grandmother’s ghost is in there. Further into the film, Stephanie begins to struggle with the power-dynamics of her friendships with other girls, and Emmy begins to grow more fearful of her late grandmother. 

As a result of their own personal struggles and their parents’ failing relationship, the sisters begin to clash. Yet underneath the tension, hurt, and envy, there is a deep sense of love between the two, which Hama-Brown ensures will never be overlooked by the audience. 

“I had a fairly clear sense of Emmy and Stephanie’s dynamic early on since I knew that I wanted to explore the complexities within family dynamics,” Hama-Brown said. “I’m fascinated by the contradictions that can occur in many families. The sibling dynamic that felt most interesting to me, was one that was at once tense and a point of conflict but also incredibly loving at the same time.” Then she added, “However, it did take time in the writing process to really find their dynamic and get specific with what was happening for them in this relationship.”

The themes of adolescence and innocence (as well as the loss of such things) are not new in Hama-Brown’s work. Her critically acclaimed short film Broken Bunny provides a deep dive into the loss of innocence when a girl finds an injured rabbit. “I think these are some of the themes that I naturally gravitate towards,” Hama-Brown said. “I imagine that I will likely be drawn to them in some way in the future. I think there is so much to uncover in these themes. Whether it is delving into how innocence inevitably is lost or the ways that we are challenged as we relate to those around us, I’m very drawn to these themes because of their complexity.”

A Film to be Remembered

With an outstanding cast, innovative camerawork, and a memorable script to be thought about long after leaving the theaters, Seagrass is a quiet film that utilizes thriller-esque tension without losing emotional poignancy.

When asked if there’s a specific emotion she’d like the audience to leave the theaters with, Hama-Brown said, “I wouldn’t say that there is a specific emotion that I hope people will leave with but I do hope that they will feel an emotional impact from the film in some way. I think the film requires some processing so I also hope that people will think about it and digest it after viewing it.”

She concluded, “Of course, I hope viewers will leave feeling a sense of connection as well with the themes that the film explores.”

Seagrass is now available on VOD. Follow Seagrass’s official Instagram and Meredith Hama-Brown’s Instagram for updates on her latest projects. 

*Editor’s Note: This interview has been edited for length and clarity. 

Want to discover more API films? Check out our article on five API love stories at Sundance here!

The post Director Meredith Hama-Brown Navigates Grief and Intergenerational Trauma in Debut Film, “Seagrass” appeared first on EnVi Media.

In 2018, it was announced that Dev Patel would be making his directorial debut with his self-written action thriller Monkey Man. The news came eight years after, in an interview with Daily Mail, Patel had vented his frustrations about institutional racism in the entertainment industry. After he starred in Slumdog Millionaire and gained massive praise for his performance, he had a rough time finding another suitable role. He stated “Asian actors tend to not be sent Hollywood scripts that are substantial or challenging… I am more likely to be offered the roles of terrorist, cab driver, and smart geek.” 

In an interview, Monkey Man leading actress, Sobhita Dhulipala, praised Patel and revealed that he had been working on the script for around eight years, starting just a little bit after his debut film Slumdog Millionaire was released. When connecting all the dots, one can see that Patel has a deep passion for acting, alongside his wish for representation in the film industry. Instead of waiting for things to change he decided to carve a new path for himself and other underrepresented individuals in the industry. EnVi presents a brief timeline of Patel’s career leading up to his long-awaited directorial debut! 

Patel’s Career

Patel’s first acting gig took place in 2007 with British teen series, Skins. He auditioned for a role in the series in 2006 after his mother saw a casting ad in Metro newspaper. Patel played the role of Anwar Kharral, a Muslim, Pakistani teen, who does not follow all the rules of his religion. The character, who was partially based on Patel’s personality, appeared in two seasons of the show. 

Before his role in Skins, Patel had never received formal acting training and had only participated in school dramas. His lack of professional experience did not define him, as it was revealed that a GCSE examiner was brought to tears by his performance portraying a student who was in the Beslan school siege.  

In 2008, Patel made his film debut with a lead role in Slumdog Millionaire. The film centers on Jamal Malik, an impoverished 18-year-old boy who gets the chance to participate on Kaun Banega Crorepati, the Indian version of Who Wants to be a Millionaire. He defies the odds and makes it to the final question, which alerts the attention of the local police. They believe he is cheating and he is taken in for heavy questioning and torture. He proves himself by recounting his childhood experiences. 

In 2017, he became the third actor of Indian descent to receive an Oscar nomination. He received a nomination for his performance in the 2016 biographical film, Lion where he portrayed Saroo Brierley. The film tells the story of Brierley, who was separated from his family and placed in an orphanage where an Australian couple adopted him. 25 years later, memories from his past come flooding in, and he starts the search for the family he almost forgot. 

Monkey Man

Monkey Man follows Kid (Dev Patel), a man who works in an underground fight club. Each night he dawns a gorilla mask and is beaten senseless by stronger fighters just so he can make money to survive. Kid seeks revenge against the elite who killed his mother in the past and continues to control those who are poor and powerless.  

The film is inspired by the legend of Hanuman, a Hindu God who is half-monkey and half-human. Hanuman was a mischievous child who was cursed to forget his eight powers until adulthood. 

Aside from Patel, the film stars Sharito Copley, Pitobash, Sobhita Dhulipala, Sikandar Kher, Vipin Sharma, Ashwini Kalsekar, Adithi Kalkunte, and Makarand Deshpande. 

Release Date 

Back in 2021, Netflix offered an estimated $30 million to acquire the rights to the film. After seeing the film, director Jordan Peele acquired it under his production company, MonkeyPaw Productions. Peele is known for directing and writing films like Get Out, Us, and most recently Nope. 

The world premiere for the film took place on March 11 at the SXSW film festival and it is set to premiere in the United States on April 5. 

Patel received a standing ovation at the SXSW film festival and the film got 100% from critics on Rotten Tomatoes. 

Interested in reading about another director making waves in the industry? Check out this article on Wong Kar Wai’s First TV Show here!  

The post Dev Patel Makes Directorial Debut with Monkey Man appeared first on EnVi Media.

From Black Mirror to Nope, Daniel Kaluuya is no stranger to starring in Black sci-fi stories. The Academy Award-winning actor stepped behind the camera for his directorial debut with The Kitchen (2023). After premiering at the BFI London Film Festival in October 2023, Netflix released the film for streaming on January 19. Kaluuya and co-director Kibwe Tavares bring viewers to a dystopian future where Londoners must find resilience amidst classism and forced displacement.

Into The Kitchen

The Kitchen imagines the potential fate of London’s lower class through a blend of modernity and futurism. The title refers to the name of the housing complex serving as the story’s main setting. The Kitchen is the last remaining public housing in this futuristic London facing demolition. Occupants of the estate face overpopulation, a lack of resources, and frequent physical aggression from police officers. The film’s uncanny reflection of reality and unique critique of society leave a strong impression on viewers.

The plot follows Izi, a single man working at a funeral home with hopes of soon moving out of The Kitchen. His self-centered nature is challenged when he meets a young boy named Benji, who is left to fend for himself after the death of his mother. Benji searches for guidance and community within the dangers of The Kitchen. The movie unexpectedly develops into an emotional exploration of morality as Izi must reconsider his priorities in life.

The Cast

The majority Black cast adds relatability for Black viewers. Even despite the extreme circumstances the residents face, there is still room for music, culture, and celebration. The Kitchen strongly showcases that Black people deserve major roles in sci-fi stories, and their identities do not have to be compromised.

Actor and rapper Kane Robinson, popularly known as Kano, delivers a memorable performance of character development through his role as Izi. The opening scene introduces him as he showers despite an announcement that water is scarce. The flashing alarms and desperate shouts from residents waiting outside are disregarded, and Izi’s individualistic mindset shows. His conversations with others throughout the film slowly unveil emotions suppressed by the weight of The Kitchen. 

Jedaiah Bannerman hits the ground running in his acting debut as Benji. Fueled by curiosity and searching for family after loss, his character adds a fresh perspective to the story. Benji experiences the conditions of The Kitchen for the first time alongside the audience. The fragile nature of Benji’s circumstances evokes attachment within viewers. His perspective also offers insight into the effects environment and role models can have on Black youth in desperate times.

Hope Ikpoku Jnr embodies resistance in the role of Staples. The young leader takes the initiative to direct acts of retaliation against the authorities and upper class. Staples shows a turbulent reaction to the conditions of The Kitchen. While Izi buries his emotions inside — turning to isolation and escape — Staples chooses to fight back in defense of the community. This is reflected in the tense interactions between the two and their respective influences on Benji. 

Though the film follows these three characters, every resident of The Kitchen supports the delivery of the story’s message.

The Fate of Black Futures

From the characters to the soundtrack, The Kitchen effectively presents a relatable Black sci-fi movie. The lack of unnatural slang and inaccurate representations of culture is refreshing; it is evident that the story was written from a place of understanding and experience. The context of the film also proudly challenges pre-existing stereotypes. 

While there is a slow start, the raw emotions and thought-provoking story are worth it, and it leaves room for more development and background into The Kitchen. Kaluuya and Tavares created a timeless conversation piece by using a Black speculative lens to spotlight real issues in underprivileged communities. The similarities between reality and their London dystopia force the audience to recognize the urgency for change. 

Want more on Black films? Check out this piece on existential Blackness in films and TV shows here!

The post First Impressions: Classism, Community, and Character Development in The Kitchen appeared first on EnVi Media.

Charles Melton has been the talk of the town thanks to his recent role in May December. From guest starring in American Horror Stories to gaining stardom with his performance in Riverdale and working in action-packed films and romantic dramas, the 32-year-old actor has gathered diverse roles since his starting days. Melton’s performances over the years have shaped his capability to deliver an emotional performance through his work. 

After the release of May December on May 20, 2023, at the 76th Cannes Film Festival and on Netflix last December, the actor has received massive attention for his role as Joe Yoo. With a low voice and shy demeanor, Melton’s captivating performance left viewers stunned. If you’re interested in learning more about this breakout actor, here are five recommendations you can check out. 

May December (2023) 

Todd Hayes’ film May December, which is loosely based on the Mary Kay Letourneau scandal, stars well-known names like Natalie Portman, alongside Julianne Moore and Charles Melton, who portray Elizabeth Berry, Gracie Atherton, and Joe Yoo. 

May December explores Elizabeth’s journey as she tries to uncover and understand the truth behind the affair. She discovers Gracie and Joe’s complex personalities while she methodically crafts her portrayal of Gracie. The film, which gained attention and received a series of nominations at the Golden Globes, The Academy Awards, and The Critics Choice Awards, is a psychological drama that touches on heavy topics such as the complexity of guilt, selfishness, and power imbalances.

Melton’s portrayal of Joe offers a fresh and complete switch from the actor’s previous roles. He turned himself into a man with child-like behavior, achieving this by changing the tone of his voice, as well as adding several mannerisms and expressions of a teenager. In an interview with DAZED, Melton mentioned that for the role of Joe, he decided to focus on how trauma can impact your psyche and expression. “I also wanted to focus on the psychology of repression and how certain traumas can live within your body and how that would impact your physicality,” he told DAZED.

His incredible performance was the turning point in the film and gave him the opportunity to make a bigger name in the industry for himself. His portrayal of Joe in May December earned him several accolades in the category of “Best Supporting Role” at the Gotham Awards, National Society of Film Critics, and New York Film Critics Circle Awards. He was also nominated in the same category at the Golden Globes and at the Critics Choice Awards.

Riverdale (2017) 

Based on the comics series Archie’s Comics, Riverdale is a drama mystery series starring KJ Apa, Lili Reinhart, Camila Mendes, Cole Sprouse, Madelaine Petsch, and Charles Melton. The show follows the lives of the teens at Riverdale High School throughout adolescence and adulthood in the small town of Riverdale. Throughout seven seasons, the characters experience a series of life events, disappearances, murders, troubles, and fights against enemies and rivals around the town.

Charles Melton’s character Reggie is the typical jock football player at Riverdale High School. He’s sarcastic, selfish, and explores the town’s mysteries alongside his friends. However, Melton was not the first one to play Reggie. Ross Butler originated the role in season one, but due to a mixed schedule between his work on 13 Reasons Why during season two, Melton took over playing Reggie. 

The Sun is Also a Star (2019)

The Sun is Also a Star (2019) is a teen romance story based on a book of the same name by Nicola Yoon. The film features Natasha Kingsley (Yara Shahid) and Daniel Bae (Charles Melton), two teenagers who fall in love the day before their respective lives take a difficult turn. Together, they set off on a journey that explores relationships, family, self-discovery, and love.

The story not only focuses on the surprising bond between these two characters over a single day, but also depicts the challenges of immigration and deportation, given that Natasha’s family is dealing with the challenges of illegal immigration. Daniel, also goes on a journey as he seeks to find his place in the world despite his parents’ wishes. Despite the obstacles and trials, both characters endure in their personal lives, the duo starts to fall in love regardless of the low possibility of being together.

American Horror Stories (2021) 

Released in 2021, American Horror Stories is the spin-off of the renowned TV series American Horror Story, created by Ryan Murphy. In contrast to the original show where each season dives into a different genre of horror and story, this spin-off offers a new story every episode. 

In the episode “The Naughty List,” Charles Melton shines in his performance as Wyatt. The episode follows four troubled YouTube influencers with a channel called “The Bro House” where they upload prank videos. However, their popularity comes crashing down when they post a video of a man ending his life. After a series of failed attempts to regain their subscribers, the group films a video making fun of their local Santa. However, when they’re informed that the Santa actor is a dangerous impostor, a game of push and pull begins between them.

“Break Up With Your Girlfriend”  by Ariana Grande (2019) 

Despite this being a music video, Charles offered a captivating performance alongside Grammy winner and pop artist Ariana Grande for the last track in her 2019 album, thank u, next. The three-minute video explores Grande’s relationship with Melton’s character and his girlfriend portrayed by Ariel Yasmine, as Ariana feels deeply drawn to the couple. Still, she can’t be with either of them. At first, the story alludes to Grande being interested in Melton, and he is attracted to her even with his girlfriend by his side. However, the turning point of the video comes at the end, when Grande, instead of wanting to be with Melton, decides to be with Yasmine. 

Breaking The Mold With His Acting 

With the release of May December, Melton continues to showcase how ready he is to take on a challenge and experiment with roles and characters. As he admitted to Vanity Fair that he’s not trying to set any limits on himself when it comes to acting, it is refreshing to see an actor who’s seeking roles where he can dig into the emotions and humanity of his characters. In the meantime, be sure to keep up with his latest work by following him on Instagram.

Want more film recommendations from EnVi? Check out our piece on 9 Must Watch Asian Films About First Love here!

The post ENCORE: Charles Melton From Teen Romances To Psychological Dramas appeared first on EnVi Media.

Since 2016, Netflix has worked hard to gain a strong foothold in the South Korean market. Signing multiple long-term partnerships in 2019, Netflix has gained major distribution and production rights for a wide array of Korean media, such as variety shows, movies, and dramas. In recent news, it was revealed that Netflix would invest $2.5 billion in Korea to further increase the creation of original series and foster a new generation of creatives. 

In combination with the growing investments in the South Korean entertainment market, there have been many actors who have gained both national and international recognition for their work in various Netflix projects. Actors and actresses who have multiple credits tied to the streaming platform have often been dubbed as “sons” and “daughters.” EnVi breaks down Netflix’s growing family tree and presents nine actors to look out for!

The First Big Production: Sweet Home

Sweet Home was the first major Korean drama to come out after the announcement of the partnerships. Renowned director Lee Eung-bok, who was unfamiliar with the genre, took on the challenge of bringing the action-filled webtoon to life. Lee’s previous works include hit romance series Descendants of the Sun and Guardian: The Lonely Great God.  

Lee wanted to make sure the details of the webtoon remained when it was translated over to the screen, so he teamed up with international visual effects company Legacy Effects. Aside from visual effects, there would also need to be an amazing cast to breathe life into the characters. Nobody knew it at the time, but Sweet Home was ground zero for the birth of Netflix’s “sons” and “daughters.” Many of the actors, like Song Kang, Go Min-si, Lee Do-hyun, Park Gyu-young, and Kim Si-a appeared in the series have gone on to star in several Netflix series.

Song Kang

2019

The “eldest son,” Song Kang, starred in Love Alarm, alongside Kim So-hyun and Jung Ga-ram in 2019. Song auditioned against 900 others and landed the lead role playing as Hwang Sun-oh. 

2020

2020 marked a turning point in Song’s career with him appearing in Sweet Home. Lee Na-jeong, the director of Love Alarm, recommended Song to audition for the role of Cha Hyun-soo. In the series, Hyun-soo is a depressed high school student who moves into an apartment on his own after his family passes away in an accident. Along with the other residents, Hyun-soo tries to survive after a mysterious outbreak of monsters threatens humanity. Following the end of the first season, Song received four nominations for his role. He won the ACA Excellence award at the Asia Contents Award and the Character of the Year award at the Seoul International Drama Awards. 

2021-22

Aside from Sweet Home and Love Alarm, the majority of Song’s Netflix projects are produced with outside networks. In 2021, Song starred as the lead in tvN drama Navillera alongside Park In-hwan. His second drama of the year was JTBC drama Nevertheless starring Han So-hee. Song only starred in one project for 2022, which was the JTBC drama Forecasting Love and Weather. 

2023-24

His most recent project was SBS drama My Demon where he starred alongside Kim Yoo-jung. Song played as 200-year-old demon, Jeong Gu-won, who loses his powers after getting involved with Do Do-hee (Kim Yoo-jung). Kang received two nominations at the SBS Drama Awards for his work in My Demon. He won the Top Excellence Award, Actor in a Miniseries Romance/Comedy Drama, and Best Couple Award. 

My Demon marks Song Kang’s last airing project before his military enlistment. Season three of Sweet Home is set to be the only Netflix project airing after his enlistment.

Go Min-si

2019-21

Go Min-si landed her first Netflix role with Love Alarm in 2019. She accepted a supporting role acting as Kim Jo-jo’s (Kim So-hyun) cousin. In 2020, she landed a role in Sweet Home alongside Song Kang. She played Lee Eun-yu, Lee Eun-hyuk’s (Lee Do-hyun) younger sister and aspiring ballerina. Go received two nominations for her work in Sweet Home and received the New Comer Actress award at the Asia Content Awards in 2021. 

Upcoming Netflix Project

On February 20, 2023, Netflix announced the casting for upcoming series Alone in the Woods (working title). Alone in the Woods, also known as The Frog, marks Go’s third overall project with Netflix. The cast includes Kim Yun-seok, Yoon Kye-sang, and Lee Jung-eun. The series is directed by Mo Wan-il, who was behind the 2020 hit revenge drama World of The Married. The plot of The Frog follows a man whose life is turned upside down after a mysterious woman arrives at his pension. As of the time of writing, there are no further details regarding the plot, and the official release date has not yet been confirmed. 

Taking Destiny Into Her Own Hands 

In a promotional video for Sweet Home, Go revealed that she had worked as a wedding planner before pursuing acting. In 2016, she made her directorial and acting debut with her three-minute short film Parallel Novel. The film won her the Grand Prize at the Three Minutes Film Festival. From then on, she made appearances in web series, 72 Seconds season three and Absolutely Perfect Man and even made an appearance in a music video before making her television debut in 2017. 

Lee Do-hyun

2021

The “second son,” Lee Do-hyun, made his Netflix debut in 2021 after landing a role in Sweet Home. He played Lee Eun-hyuk, Lee Eun-yu’s (Go Min-si) older brother and the leader of the residents in the Green Home apartment. He received three nominations for his work in the series and won Best Actor in Supporting Role at the Asian Academy Creative Awards. 

Sweet Home Season 3 will mark Lee’s last appearance on Netflix for a while as he enlisted in the military on August 14, 2023.

2022

In 2022, it was announced that Lee was cast in The Glory alongside Song Hye-kyo. He played Joo Yeong-jeong, a plastic surgeon who offers Moon Dong-eun (Song Hye-kyo) assistance as she plots revenge against her past bullies. 

2023

Lee starred as the lead in JTBC drama The Good Bad Mother in 2023. He played Choi Kang-ho, the son of Jin Young-soon (Ra Mi-ran), a single mother who runs a pig farm. Kang-ho is a prosecutor who experiences amnesia and returns to a child-like state.

Always Showcasing Versatility 

In an interview, Lee Dohyun revealed that the filming for The Glory, The Good Bad Mother, and Exhuma overlapped. He had to remember and analyze lines for various characters while being driven to each filming set. That might not sound difficult to pull off, but consider that his role in The Good Bad Mother required him to portray a 35-year-old and a 5-year-old Kang-ho.

Park Gyu-young 

2020

Park Gyu-young, who has been acting since 2016, landed her first main role in tvN series It’s Okay to Not Be Okay in 2020. She played the role of Nam Ju-ri, a nurse at OK Psychiatric Hospital. Her character also has a one-sided crush on male lead Moon Gang-tae (Kim Soo-hyun). Later that year, Park starred in Sweet Home as Yoon Ji-su, a musician who moved into Green Home apartment after her boyfriend died by suicide. She received one nomination for her performance in Sweet Home. 

2023

In 2023, Park landed her first leading role in a Netflix series with Celebrity. She played as Seo Ah-ri, a makeup salesperson who was once from a wealthy family. Ah-ri and her mother were thrusted into the working class after her father passed away and his business went bankrupt. By chance. Ah-ri meets an old wealthy friend who invites her to join Gabin Society, an influencer group.

Upcoming Projects with Netflix

On June 29, 2023, Park was confirmed to join the cast of the second Squid Game season along with seven other actors. As of the time of writing, her role in the series is not confirmed. 

Growing Confidence

Park revealed that she didn’t have high hopes of getting cast as Ji-su in Sweet Home. It wasn’t until she got a call back from the director that she believed it. Years later, she was able to gain confidence through her role in Celebrity. In an interview with The Korea Times, she stated, “…I felt a sense of accomplishment upon finishing which also boosted my confidence.”

Kim Si-a

2021

In 2021, 13-year-old actress Kim Si-a starred as young Ashin in Kingdom: Ashin of the North. She gained a bigger role at the end of the year with her role in The Silent Sea as Luna 073. The series features veteran actors Gong Yoo, Bae Doo-na, and Lee Joon as they gather samples from an abandoned research base located in space. 

2023

2023 was a busy year for Kim as she had three Netflix projects under her belt. Her first project of the year was Kill Boksoon where she acted as Gil Bok-soon’s (Jeon Do-yeon) daughter Gil Jae-young. Jae-young is a closeted teen who is not aware of the fact her mother is a contract killer. 

Kim’s second project of 2023 was See You in My 19th Life where she starred as Yoon Joo-won. See You in My 19th Life follows Ban Ji-eum (Shin Hye-sun), a woman who is cursed to remember all of her past lives.

Her final project of 2023 was Sweet Home, where she played as Seo Yi-kyung’s (Lee Si-young) child.

Han So-hee

2021

Han So-hee was not cast in Sweet Home, but she managed to make a path of her own. Han’s first connection with Netflix was through the JTBC drama Nevertheless, where she starred alongside Song Kang. She played the lead role of Yoo Na-bi, a university student who no longer believes in love after a relationship with her first boyfriend ended badly. Later in 2021, Han starred as the lead in crime noir My Name alongside Ahn Bo–hyun and veteran actor Park Hee-soon. She played as Yoon Ji-woo, who is seeking revenge on the person who killed her father. Han received five nominations for her performance and won the Actress of the Year Award (Domestic) at the Kino Lights Awards. 

2023

After two years Han made her return to Netflix with a lead role in historical drama Gyeongseong Creature alongside Park Seo-joon. The drama is set in Gyeongseong (modern-day Seoul) during the Japanese colonial period in 1945, and Han plays Yoon Chae-ok, a person who has been searching for her lost mother for 10 years. Chae-ok teams up with Jang Tae-sang (Park Seo-joon) to infiltrate Ong-seong Hospital and the pair stumble across a sinister secret. 

Season 2 of the series is set to be released in 2024 and it will be set in the present day. 

From Humble Beginnings 

In the YouTube series Nattering with Nah, Han revealed she planned to go to school in France instead of becoming an actress. She couldn’t go to school abroad as she needed 60 million won to obtain a visa and her financial situation was not ideal. To save money, she took on several part-time jobs including modeling and eventually booked a commercial with Ritz Cracker. From there, she caught the attention of a CEO who encouraged her to pursue acting.

The Newest Generation: Alchemy of Souls

Alchemy of Souls revealed the newest additions to Netflix’s “sons” and “daughters” lineup. The series takes place in a made up country known as Daeho. It revolves around several young mages who are trying to fight against fate and a forbidden magic spell known as “alchemy of souls,” which allows for souls to switch bodies. The series presented a new generation of sons and daughters in Netflix’s ever-growing family.

Lee Jae-wook

2020

In May 2020, Lee Jae-wook was cast as a lead in KBS drama Do Do Sol Sol La La Sol with Go Ara. The drama follows Go Ra-ra (Go-Ara) a pianist whose life went from riches to rags. She moves to a small town where she meets Sunwoo Joon (Lee Jae-wook), a guy who has several part-time jobs. Sunwoo vows to help Go get back on her feet. 

2022

Lee starred as Jang Uk in the fantasy-romance Alchemy of Souls. This marked his second lead role in a drama series. In part one of the series, he played alongside actress Jung So-min, and in part two, he played alongside rising actress Go Youn-jung. 

Following his performance in the series, Lee received three nominations and received three awards. He won the Best Actor Award at the Asia Artist Awards, Asia Special Award at the Asia Model Awards, and Global Excellence Award at the Korea Drama Awards. 

Upcoming Projects with Netflix

Lee snagged another lead role starring in historical drama Hong Rang, which is set to premiere in early 2024. The story revolves around a wealthy family in the late Joseon Dynasty period who lost their son Hong-rang. Hong Rang (Lee Jae-wook), who disappeared at the age of eight, returns as an adult with no recollection of the past. His half-sister, Jae-yi (Jo Bo-ah), searches for answers on his disappearance and tries to confirm his identity.

Go Youn-jung

2020

Just one year after her acting debut, Go Youn-jung made her first Netflix appearance with a cameo role on The School Nurse Files in 2020. Later that same year, she landed the role of Park Yu-ri in Sweet Home. The character Park Yu-ri works as a caregiver for an elderly patient in the Green Home Apartments. 

2021

Go landed a supporting role in legal drama Law School alongside leads Kim Bum and Ryu Hye-young. The story follows a group of law students and their professor who get involved with a strange case. Go plays the role of first-year student Jeon Ye-seul, who is caught in an abusive relationship with her boyfriend. 

Upcoming Projects

In September 2023, it was announced that Go would be leading Wise Resident Life, a spinoff of the hit series Hospital Playlist. The series is set to revolve around the lives of young obstetrics and gynecology residents. The release date is yet to be confirmed at this time.  

A Woman Of Many Talents 

Go might surprise you with the amount of talents she has. From an early age she dabbled in ballet, figure skating, and swimming. In an interview with The Korean Herald, she stated that skills in different sports helped her passionately portray Hui-soo in Moving. For her role as Nak-su in Alchemy of Souls, she learned sword fighting. On top of that, she studied contemporary art at Seoul Women’s University and she even models on the side.

Yoo In-soo

2022

The “youngest son,” Yoo In-soo, made his official Netflix debut in 2022 where he starred in the main cast for horror coming-of-age series All of Us Are Dead. Starring alongside other young actors like Park Ji-hu and Yoon Chan-young, Yoo portrayed the main antagonist, Yoon Gwi-nam. Later that year, Yoo landed a supporting role in Alchemy of Souls where he played Park Dang-gu, the heir to the largest conglomerate in Daeho, Songrim. 

2023

In 2023, Yoo was casted in The Good Bad Mother and season two of The Uncanny Counter. In The Good Bad Mother Yoo plays as Bang Sam-sik, a village boy who is rough around the edges. He also has a one-sided crush on female lead Lee Mi-joo (Ahn Eun-jin). He plays a similarly silly role in The Uncanny Counter as Na Jeok-bong, a new Counter on the team who has the ability to sniff the scents of evil spirits.  

Rounding out his Netflix projects for the year, Yoo made an appearance in episode three of Daily Dose of Sunshine. He portrayed Ji Seung-jae, a trainee nurse who deals with a panic disorder. 

A Growing Talent 

In an interview, Yoo revealed that he didn’t think he would get the role of Gwi-nam in All of Us Are Dead. He also was very surprised that a lot of people liked his portrayal of the character and he was worried that people wouldn’t be as interested in his future acting.

Interested in learning about some more talented young actors? Check out our spotlight of Gen Z K-drama actors here!

The post 9 Netflix “Sons” and “Daughters”: An Introduction appeared first on EnVi Media.

Hit Korean reality dating program Single’s Inferno, features a group of singles looking for love on a deserted island known as Inferno. The main objective is to find love and escape to Paradise where couples can communicate freely and form a deeper bond. Although the contestants’ professions and ages are not the main focus, their range and overlap can be interesting to take note of. One common overlap is that most contestants worked as models, either freelance or as their full-time career. The second most common one is that at least one female contestant from each season competed in a Miss Korea pageant. The third is, of course, contestants working as actors. It seems like an acting bug must’ve been present on the set of Singles Inferno 2 because three participants from that season are currently carving a path in the field! EnVi presents a list of Single’s Inferno’s rising actors to look out for.  

Lee So-e

Lee So-e from the second season of Singles Inferno, although new to the acting scene, is the most experienced actor among her fellow participants. Prior to her appearance in the reality dating series, she had bit parts in romance series Snowdrop and dark fantasy Netflix series Hellbound. 

A few months before Singles Inferno 2 aired, Lee landed a minor role in season 1 of The First Responders playing as Kim Hyeon-seo, a girl who has been missing for seven years. The main character in the series, Jin Ho-gae (Kim Rae-won), was the last person who saw her on the day she got kidnapped and feels an immense sense of guilt. The Glory presented Lee another opportunity to play a minor role and make her second Netflix appearance. Lee played Yoon So-hee, the girl who was bullied by Yeon Jin (Lim Ji-yeon) and her friends, before Moon Dong-eun (Song Hye-kyo) came along. 

In 2023, Lee secured two minor roles in Heartbeat, and The Matchmakers. After gaining experience through various minor roles, she recently landed a supporting role in upcoming series In the Net. The series features stars like Kim Seon-ho and Park Gyu-young as leads. The story follows Ai (Park Gyu-young) who is distraught at the death of her younger sister who was a victim of cyberbullying. She meets N (Kim Seon-ho), a hacker, and they work together to uncover the truth of her sister’s passing.  

Shin Seul-ki

Shin Seulki from season 2 of Single’s Inferno is making her acting debut in Pyramid Game on February 29, 2024. She is set to play a main role as Seo Do-ah, the class president and top student in Baekyeon Girls High School. Other actors in the cast include Kim Ji-yeon (WJSN’s Bona), Ryu Da-in, Kang Na-eon, and Jang Da-a who is the sister of IVE’s Wonyoung. The series centers on transfer student Sung Soo-ji who becomes a victim of school bullying after she received zero votes in the “Pyramid Game.” She works to dodge the bullying and put an end to the unnecessary popularity game.  

Kim Jin-young (DEX) 

Kim Jin-young, also known as DEX, has been making his mark in the entertainment industry since the conclusion of Single’s Inferno 2. He had made countless appearances on variety shows before he participated in Single’s Inferno, and is now taking the next step. 

In 2024, Kim is set to make his acting debut in Studio X+U drama, Tarot. The thriller series will have seven episodes that focus on themes from tarot cards. Kim’s episode is titled “Abandon Me.” 

Action thriller iShopping is set to be Kim’s second acting project. The series is adapted from webtoon Child Shopping (아이쇼핑), and tells the story of an abandoned, adopted child who is seeking revenge on an adoption broker agency. The release date of the drama and Kim’s role have not been confirmed at this time.  

Yu Ha-bin 

Yu Ha-bin, the lone actor of Single’s Inferno 3, only has one acting credit so far. He made an appearance in SBS romance drama My Demon. He had a bit part playing as No Suh-ahn’s (Lee Yoon-ji) secretary in episode 2, where he acted as her confidant and provided her information on competitors in the market. No is the CEO of Mirae apparel and the second daughter to Joo Cheon-sook (Kim Hae-sook), the chairwoman and founder of Mirae Group.

Interested in Korean reality dating shows? Check out our article about Love Alarm Clap! Clap! Clap! here!

The post The Actors of “Single’s Inferno” appeared first on EnVi Media.

With 2024 marking Lee Jun-young’s tenth year working in the entertainment industry, it seems fitting to take a look back on his journey which has been filled with many highlights. From debuting in a K-pop group at the age of 17 to now bringing various characters to life as an actor at the age of 27, Lee Jun-young has never let his passions fade. For the seventh installment of ACT!ON’s From Stage to Screen series, we introduce Lee Jun-young, an idol-turned-actor who continues to show exponential growth.  

Debut in UKISS 

In 2008, the six-member South Korean boy band U-KISS debuted. The name U-KISS stands for “Ubiquitous Korean International Idol Super Star.” The group promoted both in South Korea and Japan. Over the course of many years, the group saw various line-up changes and currently has five members. 

Jun-young, or Jun, was first introduced as a new member of U-KISS on May 15, 2014. He made his debut on June 2, 2014, during the release of their 9th EP, Mono Scandal. The music video for their title track song ‘Quit Playing (​​끼부리지마)’ was rated 19+ and the “inappropriate” choreography was temporarily banned from broadcast until revisions were made. After over seven years with the group, Jun-young left U-KISS and NH Media in August 2021 after his contract expired. In November 2021, it was announced that he had co-founded a new agency, J-flex, to manage his acting projects. In 2023, J-flex merged with Blade Entertainment. 

Acting Debut and Participation in The UNIT

In October 2017, Jun-young’s debut drama Avengers Social Club aired on TVN. The series featured three women and one man who came together to enact revenge on people who harmed them. He played Lee Soo-gyum, who sought revenge on his biological parents who neglected him. 

Representing U-KISS, in 2017 Jun-young joined The Unit, a survival reality show. The show aimed to give already debuted idols a chance to show their true talents. At the end of the show, the finalists formed two project groups. The male project group was named UNB, and the female project group was named UNI.T. 

During the initial evaluations, Jun-young was the first contestant to receive a “Super Boot.” Idols who auditioned for the program received a “Super Boot” when 90% of the audience voted for them. If they received a “Super Boot” they  immediately passed to join the show. During the first evaluation, the judges asked him why he decided to join the show even though U-KISS was relatively popular. He explained that even though he joined late he wanted to help by bringing positive light back to the group. 

Throughout the program, he remained in the top nine ranks. He was constantly competing with Bigflo’s Euijin for the number one spot. At the final, he placed first and secured his spot in UNB with a total of 165,302 points. UNB made their debut on April 7, 2018, with their EP Boyhood. The group held their debut stage at Yoo Hee-Yeol’s Sketchbook performing double title tracks “Feeling” and “Only One.” 

Solo Activities and Continued Acting Endeavors 

After UNB disbanded, Jun-young leveraged his popularity in Japan and released his first solo, “Phenomenal World.” The solo song earned the seventh spot on the list of best-selling Japanese singles by a Korean artist in the first half of 2019. 

The second half of 2019 was busy for Jun-young, as he starred in the OCN drama Class of Lies, and released several more solo songs in Japan and Korea. The series followed Kim Moo-Hyeok (Yun Kyung-Sang), a lawyer who goes undercover at a high school to uncover the truth of a murder case. Jun-young, a member of the supporting cast, played Yoo Beom-Jin, the President of the Veritas Club. His character uses the club as a front to fake awards on student records and help members get into elite universities. 

After Class of Lies finished airing, Jun-young released a Japanese and Korean version of his single “My Way.” He released his first Korean single “Tell” on November 28 and on December 5 he made his Korean solo debut with “Curious About U”. His first single album Gallery featured both songs. 

Later during the remainder of 2019 and leading into 2020, Jun-young featured in the action comedy Good Casting and made a cameo in Backstreet Rookie. 

First Leading Role of Many

Jun-young landed his first lead role in 2020 with the romantic comedy Please Don’t Date Him. The drama stars Song Ha-Yoon, as Seo Ji-Sung, an AI software developer who accidentally creates an AI fridge that can detect bad men. Jun-young plays Jung Kook-hee, a firefighter with no social media presence, providing no data the refrigerator can use to analyze him. Along with playing the leading man, he lent his voice for the original soundtrack “To you who will be tired.” 

In 2021, he continued landing lead roles in dramas like Imitation and Let Me Be Your Knight. On March 20, 2021, Netflix announced the release of a “different romance film”, Moral Sense, and confirmed the casting of Seohyun of Girls’ Generation and Lee Jun-young. Moral Sense, internationally known as Love and Leashes, follows two office workers who begin a secret BDSM relationship. Jun-young played Jung Ji-Hoo, a seemingly normal office worker with a secret. 

Love and Leashes was not Jun-young’s first appearance on Netflix. He played a recurring role in the military action series D.P. Jun-young rounded out 2022 with a leading role in the series May I Help You? with leading actress Lee Hye-ri. Jun-young played Kim Tae-Hee, who runs errands for 100 won (about 10 cents). He teams up with funeral director Baek Dong-ju (Lee Hye-ri) to help grant final wishes for the deceased.  

Current and Upcoming Projects

In 2023, Jun-young made an appearance in the Netflix series Mask Girl and starred in Brave Citizen alongside veteran actress Shin Hye-sun. With four projects and counting, his acting line-up for 2024 is extensive.

On January 26th, Badland Hunters, his first project of the year, was released. The dystopian action Netflix film starred veteran actors Ma Dong-seok and Lee Hee-joon. The film is a sequel to Concrete Utopia and takes place in a post-apocalyptic Seoul, referred to as the “badlands.” 

Lee plays Choi Ji-wan, the right-hand man to Nam-san (Ma Dong-seok). Nam-san and Ji-wan are skilled hunters who team up with special forces agent Lee Eun-ho (Ahn Ji-hye) to rescue Han Sun-na (Roh Jeong-eui) from the clutches of the twisted doctor, Yang Gi-su (Lee Hee-Joon). Badland Hunters was an immediate global hit, racking up 14.3 million views in two days and placing first on the Global Top 10 weekly list of the most watched Netflix TV films (Non-English). 

A few days after the premiere of Badland Hunters, the first trailer for his second project of 2024, The Impossible Heir, released. The upcoming South Korean television series is scheduled to release on Disney+ on February 28, 2024. Alongside Jun-young, the main cast features Lee Jae-wook and Hong Su-zu. Lee Jun-young plays Kang In-ha, an illegitimate child of a conglomerate owner. He teams up with Han Tae-oh (Lee Jae-wook) and Na Hye-won (Hong Su-zu) to take down the company from the inside and rise to the top of society. 

His other upcoming projects for the year include, I Openly Dream of Cinderella, starring Pyo Ye-Jin, and When Life Gives You Tangerines, starring Lee Ji-eun (IU) and Park Bo-gum. Other future projects to look forward to are Weak Hero Class 2 and Melo Movie. 

Seven years ago Lee Jun-young decided to take a leap of faith and begin his acting journey. Each year he has challenged himself with a variety of roles and has gained recognition for his astounding portrayals of a variety of characters. Having shown immense growth in a short period, there is no doubt that Lee will continue to be a rising star! Be sure to follow Lee Jun-young on Twitter and Instagram to keep up with his future projects!

Want more insight into amazing actors in the Asian diaspora? Check out this piece about Taiwanese American actress Ashley Liao here!

The post From Stage to Screen: Lee Jun-young appeared first on EnVi Media.

Movies and music stand out as two tangible elements in pop culture capable of capturing the intense emotions of first loves. The turbulent, sweet, and (occasionally) amicable nature of first love serves as inspiration for numerous scripts when crafting films. Typically unfolding during the crucial teenage years, these movies tend to depict a love destined for complications and heart-wrenching outcomes, covering a range of emotions from painful separations to fate-driven reunions. Here are nine Asian films that will make you relive the magical moments of your first love. 

96 (2018)

• Director: C. Prem Kumar
• Cast: Vijay Sethupathi, Trisha Krishnan, Devadarshini, Bagavathi Perumal
• Country: India

96 follows Ram (Vijay Sethupathi), a photographer and nature enthusiast, as he explores different parts of India to capture special moments. During a spontaneous visit to his hometown Tanjavur, he takes a nostalgic trip down memory lane, reminiscing about his school days in 1994. In particular, Ram’s past as a student who had romantic feelings for his classmate Janu (Trisha Krishnan) creates a heartfelt and reflective storyline.

Labs Kita…Okey Ka Lang? (I Love You…If That’s Okay) (1998)

• Director: Jerry Lopez Sineneng
• Cast: Jolina Magdangal, Marvin Agustin, Hilda Koronel, Ronaldo Valdez
• Country: Philippines 

Bujoy (Jolina Magdangal) has a hidden crush on her longtime friend Ned (Marvin Agustin). Their close friendship takes a complicated turn when Ned develops strong feelings for Bujoy’s friend Mary Ann, creating a challenging situation for Bujoy as she grapples with unrequited love. The film explores the complexities of relationships and the emotions that arise when friendship and romantic feelings collide.

You & Me & Me (2023)

• Director: Weawwan Hongvivatana, Wanwaew Hongvivatana
• Cast: Thitiya Jiapornsilp, Anthony Buisseret, Supakson Chaim
• Country: Thailand

Identical twin sisters You and Me (both played by Thitiya Jiapornsilp) are inseparable and share every part of their lives. Their world turns uncertain when their parents decide to separate, leading to a move to Nakhon Phanom Province. As the twins navigate adolescence, a bittersweet love story unfolds with the arrival of a boy named Mark (Anthony Buisseret). The film highlights the nuanced nature of first love, exploring its simplicity as an evolving emotion and its complexity, too. In You & Me & Me, we see the twins put their sisterly bond, family ties, and friendship to the test.

Jatuh Cinta Seperti di Film-film (Falling in Love Like in Movies) (2023)

• Director: Yandy Laurens
• Cast: Ringgo Agus Rahman, Nirina Zubir, Sheila Dara Aisha, Dion Wiyoko
• Country: Indonesia

Boasting warmth, tenderness, and a sense of humor, Falling in Love Like in Movies follows the story of Bagus (Ringgo Agus Rahman), a screenwriter who secretly falls in love with his high school friend, Hana (Nirina Zubir). Hana, a grieving widow who just lost her husband, inspires Bagus to secretly write the story of Bagus’s reunion with Hana into a movie screenplay.

Our Times (2015)

• Director: Frankie Chen
• Cast: Vivian Sung, Darren Wang, Dino Lee, Dewi Chien
• Country: Taiwan

Truly Lin (Vivian Sung), an ordinary office worker often teased by her colleagues, finds solace in listening to old cassette tapes of Andy Lau’s songs. This immediately transports her back to her high school days when she was a student with a crush on the most popular guy in school, Taiyu (Darren Wang). The film explores Truly’s journey from being a regular office worker to revisiting the memories of her teenage years through the nostalgic tunes of Andy Lau.

Love Letter (1995)

• Director: Shunji Iwai
• Cast: Miho Nakayama, Etsushi Toyokawa, Miki Sakai, Takashi Kashiwabara
• Country: Japan

Love Letter unfolds the story of Itsuki and Hiroko (both played by Miho Nakayama) — two minds connected from afar — sharing the memories of a man. This film beautifully explores the unconventional bond that transcends distance and time. As Hiroko attends her fiancé Itsuki’s memorial, she discovers a surprising connection when she receives a reply to her letter. Love Letter reveals a twist involving a girl named Itsuki Fujii, his old classmate with a shared name.

Mukhsin (2006)

• Director: Yasmin Ahmad
• Cast: Syafie Naswip, Sharifah Aryana, Salehuddin Abu Bakar
• Country: Malaysia

Mukhsin tells the heartwarming tale of a twelve-year-old Malaysian boy’s awkward yet nostalgic journey into first love with a spirited girl. It forms a gentle and comedic prequel to Yasmin Ahmad’s “Sepet” and “Gubra.” With a sweet and poignant touch, the movie captures the essence of first love and offers a glimpse into diverse family dynamics across the town.

Us and Them (2018)

• Director: René Liu
• Cast: Jing Boran, Zhou Dongyu
• Country: China

In Us and Them, Xiaoxiao (Zhou Dongyu) and Jianqing’s (Jing Boran) first paths cross 10 years ago during the bustling Spring Festival. Like many classic love stories, the plot explores the enduring impact of romantic connections despite  distance and the circumstances that originally led to Xiaoxiao and Jianqing’s separation — and a chance encounter a decade later. Us and Them serves as a tribute to the authentic and imperfect yet life-affirming connection shared by two individuals, exploring their nonlinear journey through romantic intimacy and the lingering impact of financial struggles. 

Soulmate (2023)

• Director: Min Yong-geun
• Cast: Kim Da-mi, Jeon So-nee, Byeon Woo-seok
• Country: South Korea

Soulmate follows the journey of Mi-so (Kim Da-mi) and Ha-eun (Jeon So-nee) as they explore the changes in their relationship as they go through life. A small rift emerges when Ha-eun experiences her first love with classmate Jin-woo (Byeon Woo-seok) in their late teens. While Mi-so pursues adventure in the city and Ha-eun chooses a stable life in her hometown, the physical distance between regions, particularly against the backdrop of Jeju Island, becomes a crucial element. By highlighting contrasting lifestyles and character aspirations, this dynamic gives a unique twist to the movie adapted from Anni Baobei’s novel Hello, MY SOULMATE.

Looking for more movie recommendations by EnVi’s ACT!ON Team? Check out our list of 5 API Sundance Films here!

The post 9 Asian Movies About First Love to Watch appeared first on EnVi Media.

Content in this article may cause discomfort. Reader’s discretion is advised.

Superheroes around the world look different, but they all serve the same function, which is to boost civic imagination. Peter Coogan states in his 2006 book, Superhero: The Secret Origin of a Genre, “[A] sloppy definition of the superhero makes it more difficult to examine the way the superhero genre embodies cultural mythology and narratively animates and resolves cultural conflicts and tensions.” NYU Press defines civic imagination as “the capacity to conceptualize alternatives to current cultural, social, political, or economic conditions; it also requires the ability to see oneself as a civic agent capable of making change, as a participant in a larger democratic culture.” The portrayal of superheroes in Western media may be the most widely accepted around the world, but that does not mean unconventional heroes beyond the West shouldn’t be recognized and accepted. 

In South Korean society, many citizens prefer the media to lean into realism as opposed to idealism. Between the years of 2018 and 2019, Jean-Paul Baldacchino and Eun-Jee Park conducted a series of interviews “to explore the relationship that informants have with the Korean drama text.” The study was not aimed to represent the entirety of the Korean population, but “it does seek to illustrate the possibility and the range of meanings and interpretations that stem from the text when viewed through the eyes of our participants mediated by our own encounters with Korean society.” Throughout the study, many of the participants reiterated that they prefer dramas that show a realistic perspective of Korean society. One participant, Eun-Jin, mentioned the drama, SKY Castle, and how “it show[s] facts and the not so good parts of society… it is realistic.” 

Vengeance is a very popular trope in Korea, also known as han. The concept of han is “best described as “rancor, grief, and resentment only felt by Koreans.” The origin of han can be traced back to the 1920s during the period of Japanese colonization in South Korea. During that period Korean citizens were not able to exercise free speech or freedom of the press. Now, contemporary South Korea can take back control while grieving the past. Signs of han can be found in many types of modern media such as K-dramas and movies. The characters depicted in the media are often met with situations that evoke a negative emotional response. Instead of becoming a villain who only fights for themselves, they become a hero and fight for others. 

Remember

Remember, starring Nam Joo-hyuk and Lee Sung-min is a Korean remake of the 2015 Canadian drama thriller of the same name. The original film, directed by Atom Egoyan, follows a Holocaust survivor with dementia who seeks revenge for his family who died in the concentration camps. The remake, revised for local-cultural significance, follows Pil-ju (Lee Sung-min), an elderly man with Alzheimer’s and a brain tumor who is seeking revenge for the family he lost during the Japanese colonial period. 

In 1910, Japan took control of Korea and committed a cultural genocide for over 30 years.The citizens of Korea were forbidden from speaking Korean in public places such as schools. Their land was taken over and transformed by Japanese families who settled there and nearly 725,000 native Koreans were forced to work in Japan. Due to an official law, known as Sōshi-kaimei, Korean citizens were forced or “graciously allowed” to change to Japanese surnames. Citizens did not sit idly while their land and culture was getting taken from them. March 1, 1919 marked the start of a series of protests for Korean national independence that lasted a year. About 2,000,000 Koreans participated in the protest and an estimated 7,000 of them were killed, 16,000 were wounded, 46,000 arrested. Also dubbed the March First Movement, the date is a national holiday in South Korea used to pay respect to protesters and celebrate Korean independence. 

Lee Sung-min’s portrayal of Han Pil-ju expresses the deep wound that many citizens carry from South Korea’s violent past. Though years have passed since the Japanese colonial period, and he is now suffering from Alzheimer’s, Han strongly recalls the atrocities committed against his family. As a result, he aims to avenge them. 

Vigilante

Vigilante, based on a Naver webtoon of the same name by Kim Gyu-sam, also stars Nam Joo-hyuk, as Kim Ji-yong. Vigilante marked Joo-Hyuk’s last project before he enlisted on March 20, 2023.

In the series, Kim Ji-yong is a police academy student fighting against injustice by acting as a vigilante. His motivation for vigilantism came when he witnessed his mother’s killer receive a three and a half year sentence because he claimed to be drunk. In South Korea, there is a major distrust with the decisions that come from the court. In a 2020 survey from Hankook Research, 87 percent of Koreans believed that sentencing was too lenient and 90 percent were in favor of stronger sentences. 

In Korea, the types of punishment include the death penalty, imprisonment with or without labor, fines and detention. Serious crimes such as assault, rape or murder can result in imprisonment with a maximum of 30-50 years. Oftentimes, the sentences will be under 10 years due mitigating factors, such as mental illness, being intoxicated, and remorse for the crime. Hence, the man who killed Kim’s mother was able to get such a favorable sentence. 

Vigilante features stories based on real-life criminals who have received light sentences for brutal crimes. In early episodes, there is a case that draws similarity to a high-profile, sex-crime case. In 2008, 56-year-old Cho Doo-soon kidnapped an 8-year-old girl and brutally assaulted her resulting in severe injuries to the child’s internal organs. Cho initially received a life sentence, but it was reduced to 12 years since it was discovered that he was under the influence of alcohol. In response to his short sentence, there was a law proposed that would restrict sex criminals’ outdoor activities to 200 meters of their residency.  

Though Kim is a normal police academy student, he uses his natural strength and skills to punish criminals. Similar to the film Spiderman the public heavily cheers on the vigilante and supports his actions. There are also forces that try to stop his actions. For instance, Jo Heon (Yoo Ji-tae), a police officer at the Seoul Metropolitan Agency. Jo, similar to J. Jonah Jameson from the Spiderman franchise, thinks that the hero is a “menace” and both men are working to expose the protagonist’s identity and “restore order.” Regardless of repeated adversity, Kim is able to help countless individuals reach justice. His boldness also helps the public imagine a world where criminals receive consequences for their actions.

Taxi Driver

The series, Taxi Driver, starring actors Lee Je-hoon, Pyo Ye-jin, Kim Eui-sung, Jang hyuk-jin, and Bae Yoo-ram, first premiered on April 9, 2021, with a second season premiering on February 17, 2023. A third season of the show was confirmed on April 16, 2023.

From the outside, looking in, Rainbow Taxi Company seems like any other car service company, but they offer something special after hours. The five-person team, backed by Jang Sung-chul (Kim Eui-sung), offers a “revenge call” service to help victims of crime. The company works as victims’ last line of help when they have exhausted all other options and are contemplating suicide. 

Much like Vigilante, Taxi Driver also brings to viewers several real-life cases, such as the WeDisk scandal. In 2018, Yang Jin-ho, the CEO of WeDisk — cloud storage service company — allegedly committed workplace abuse after a video from News Tapa was released. The video showed Yang brutally beating an employee in front of other staff. Later, it was revealed that Yang was also circulating illicit videos on the WeDisk servers and was promptly taken into police custody. Workplace violence also referred to as gapjil, is one of the more pressing problems in South Korea. A group known as Gapjil 119 received 1,121 verified email reports of workplace violence between January and November in 2023. 

In the series, the members of the Rainbow Taxi Company show empathy for people who have been through tough situations. With business cards plastered all around Korea, they try to give victims of injustice a new hope. The members take the time to listen to victims’ stories and give them the chance to rewrite their endings. Much like how a hero can reach out their hand and say “Trust me,” the victim has no obligation to receive Rainbow Taxi Company’s help. Ultimately, the series allows viewers to imagine a world where someone is willing to listen and help them gain justice. 

The Glory

Two-part series, The Glory, provides a sense of hope for victims of bullying and opens up national discussion on the issue. One in three victims of bullying in South Korea are not able to get the help they need. In another study, it was revealed that people who dealt with school violence were more likely to have suicidal thoughts or attempt suicide. Protagonist Moon Dong-eun suffered through relentless bullying that permanently scarred her, physically and mentally. She defies the odds and enacts revenge on those who have bullied her. 

The writer of the series, Kim Eun-sook, was inspired by a question her daughter asked regarding the issue of bullying. Would it be worse for her to be a victim of abuse or be the abuser? During a press conference for the series Kim revealed that she would prefer her daughter be a victim since she has the resources needed to get revenge. She acknowledged that many victims of bullying do not have the same luxury and she stated the show is a way for her to cheer on those battling through a harsh reality.

Possessing traits like courage and resilience, Moon builds a plan that will take her bullies down. It is impressive that Moon was able to gain revenge without getting her hands dirty. The domino effect played out right in front of her eyes. This series encourages victims of past violence to keep fighting for justice instead of falling prey to their past traumas. 

Weak Hero Class 1

Thriller-drama, Weak Hero Class 1, starring young talents Park Ji-hoon, Choi Hyun-wook, and Hong Kyung, premiered in November 2022. Opposite Moon Dong-eun’s actions (The Glory), Yoon Si-eun (Park Ji-hoon) tackles bullying in a more direct manner. Yeon Si-eun appears to be weak and small in build but uses his mental strength to fight off potential bullies. For instance, he outwits bullies by using Pavolonian conditioning to make them feel uneasy. Despite all that he deals with, Yoon avoids all the common outcomes of a typical victim. Victims of school bullying will often suffer from loneliness, depression, and low self-esteem. In the series, Yoon gains an unconventional group of friends who help him battle against bullies. 

Weak Hero Class 1, creates a world where a victim doesn’t fall prey to violence and breaks the prototype of the victim. The second season of the series is set to air on Netflix, with new additions to the cast: Ryeoun, Choi Min-young, Yoo Su-bin, Lee Jun-young, Bae Na-ra, and Lee Jae-min.

The dramas and movies presented do not feature characters that directly align with the conventional idea of a superhero. These South Korean media feature characters that defy the odds after suffering through events that imitate real life. Instead of gaining superpowers, they gain justice for either themselves or others who can’t gain it for themselves.

Want to read up on another superhero? Check out this breakdown of Shang-Chi & the Legend of the Ten Rings here!

The post 5 K-Dramas that Redefine the Superhero appeared first on EnVi Media.