In South Korea, 2 movies "The King's Warden" (tentatively translated: The King's Guard) and "Humint" (tentatively translated: The Secret Service Line) are facing off at the box office, promising a competition for screening slots during this year's Tet holiday.
According to the Korean Film Council, "The King's Warden" has continuously been in the top 1 domestic box office position since its release on February 4. 2. The film sold 1 million tickets in just 5 days of screening, and currently the achievement is exceeding 1.5 million tickets.
Meanwhile, "Humint" premiered on February 11th (December 24th of the lunar calendar) and currently recorded 92,000 tickets sold on February 14th, bringing the total number of tickets sold to date to 304,733.
According to Korean media, both works have different attractions, along with a cast of talented actors.
With "The King's Warden", the film is set in 1457 in Cheongnyeongpo - a remote location in Yeongwol district, Gangwon province (Korea), revolving around village chief Eom Heung Do (Yoo Hae Jin) - who decides to live with exiled king Danjong (Park Ji Hoon).
On screen, besides the heart-touching plot, the harmonious acting of Park Ji Hoon and Yoo Hae Jin is a commendable factor. Actor Yoo Hae Jin himself also has special affection for the project. He and the cast, although they already know the content, still cannot restrain themselves when watching the work again on the big screen.
Although praised by co-star Jeon Mi Do for being immersed in the role and highly focused in all scenes, Yoo Hae Jin is quite humble. He believes that his acting is not too special, but the story makes the performance meaningful.
On Park Ji Hoon's side, he lost 15 kg in 2.5 months to suit the image of a king who lost everything and had to endure exile. The actor explained that appearing with a thin image is the way he wants to express the pain and suffering of the character, who cannot eat or drink anything because he is suffering too much pain.
With "Humint" - the latest action project by director Ryu Seung Wan, set in Vladivostok (Russia).
The film follows Agent Jo (Jo In Sung), Head of Department Park Geon (Park Jung Min), Consul General Hwang Chi Seong (Park Hae Joon). Despite different motives, they encounter each other many times when they are related to restaurant staff Chae Seon Hwa (Shin Se Kyung).
Although the plot is not too breakthrough, the film still retains audiences thanks to the balance between the conflict of power and emotions between the three men. Besides, the action and acting elements of the cast are highly appreciated.
On screen, Jo In Sung brings a calm and serious image, contrasting with Park Jung Min's edgy attitude. With Park Hae Joon, he always appears with a malicious smile, contributing to highlighting the drama and fierce hostility between the characters.
However, the minus point of the film comes from the female lead. Shin Se Kyung's role is considered lacking depth, making the performance not impressive.
