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TV personality Yu to tie knot
June 4, GOYANG, South Korea -- Popular TV personality Yu Jae-suk holds a press conference in the city of Goyang, west of Seoul, on June 4 to talk about his plans to marry Na Kyung-eun on July 6. Na is an announcer for local TV station MBC. (Yonhap)(END)
Sourc: http://app.yonhapnews.co.kr/YNA/basic/Arti...AGINGPAGESIZE=5 |
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Thanks to kdramafanusa at soompi.com for the highlight
June 4, 2008
[MOVIE REVIEW]New 'Public Enemy' upgrades humor
▲ Actor Sul Kyoung-gu, director Kang Woo-suk, actor Jung Jae-young [image=newsen/daum]
In "Public Enemy Returns," the third installment of the police action series by director Kang Woo-suk, the most visible -- and welcome -- change comes from the central character, detective Gang Cheol-jung.
Gang, played by veteran actor Sul Kyoung-gu, still works as a quirky, almost uncontrollable detective who specializes in hunting down the vicious villains. But this time around Gang is much more tenacious: even after he gets stabbed by an attacker and goes through a major surgery, he springs back to his feet and runs after what he sees as "a public enemy."
The enemy is Lee Won-sul (played by Jung Jae-young), chairman of Geo-seong Group. An up-and-coming entrepreneur, chairman Lee runs a host of seemingly legitimate businesses, but his real business remains deeply rooted in his lifelong career of gangster. All of his employees are in fact members of a massive gangster group led by Lee, and their key business is to threaten, stab and kill for money.
▲A scene from "Public Enemy Returns"
Compared with the previous two installments, detective Gang looks bigger and more powerful, and even the evil character, Lee, comes with multiple psychological layers in a departure from the typically cardboard criminals. The movie also draws strength from a solid cast of supporting characters who do their part in throwing in more dramatic effects as well as a whiff of realism.
The movie, however, is not exclusively devoted to action sequences. Jokes are inserted in key moments, softening the overall tone of the film and offering a much-needed Korean sense of humor. The credit of this enhanced comic effect goes to the screenwriter Jang Jin, an established filmmaker himself who is known to be adept at creating tongue-in-cheek comic scenes, which are plentiful in "Public Enemy Returns."
In the beginning, Detective Gang is seriously considering a career change. For years he has tracked down really bad criminals, but he does not have enough money to secure a decent house for his daughter and mother. Gang drops in at a bank to get some loans, but the bank clerk's answer is resolutely negative. After all, his credit rating, because of his dangerous and terribly busy job that does not come with corresponding monetary returns, is at rock bottom.
Gang files his resignation letter to his boss but nobody believes he's quitting. While he is trying to get out of his trap, something serous hits the town. Gang's team is confronted with two murder cases whose traces seem to be linked with Geo-seong Group chairman Lee.
Lee is a very affectionate father who brings his son to a weekend farm house to teach him lessons about nature and humanity. He loves his wife dearly to the point of obeying her orders whenever possible. But behind this gentleman's facade lies a hidden identity: a merciless gangster boss who makes money, even by recruiting high school students and training them to stand in the front line of deception and violence.
Noticing that Lee's dirty hands are linked with the murder cases, Gang sets aside his career problem and begins his investigation, which turns out be more dangerous than he imagines.
Sul Kyoung-gu has increased the energy of Gang's character, showing off a more relaxed yet seasoned touch. Jung Jae-young, despite his first-ever role of an evil character, has successfully created an intriguing persona who is hopelessly corrupted to the heart and yet humorously vulnerable in a way that generates plenty of sympathy.
The original "Public Enemy" was a commercial hit in 2002, and the sequel "Another Public Enemy" produced mixed results in 2005. The third installment of the series, which draws keen interest as a major Korean film with box-office potential, is scheduled to be released on June 19.
By Yang Sung-jin ([email protected])
Source: The Korea Herald |
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Wednesday, 04 June 2008
Kraze, IMJ float "Boat"
Written by Han Sunhee
SEOUL -- Korean actor Ha Jung-woo, star of the "The Chaser," has teamed up with Japan's Tsumabuki Satoshi ("Tears for You" ) in a new movie co-production "Boat".
Scripted by Watanabe Aya ("Maison de Himiko" ) and helmed by Kim Young-nam ("Don't Look Back",) pic tells a story of two men who are involved with a smuggling business in Japan. Ha takes the role of a warm-hearted man who struggles to make a living, while Tsumabuki plays a Japanese man who helps him. They are confronted with an unexpected accident while kidnapping a Korean woman to Japan.
Production is managed by Korea's Kraze Pictures and Japan's IMJ Pictures. Kraze's Lee Jun-ho and IMJ's Osamu Kubota are credited as producers.
Each company will be responsible providing its half of the $2 million production cost. In Korea, an investment company Michigan Venture Capital is attached as a main investor. The firm has recently plunged into film industry through a partnership with Showbox in "The Chaser" and "GP506." The Korean Film Council is also partly supporting the co-production.
http://www.varietyasiaonline.com/content/view/6221/ |
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Seo In Young: the face of Maybelline New York
June 2, 2008
Jewelry’s Seo In Young was selected as Maybelline New York’s new image model, after “Asia’s Star” BoA and following the ranks of other Maybelline faces like Christy Turlington, Adriana Lima and Zhang Zi Yi. According to Maybelline New York, Seo In Young’s confidence, trendy and sexy fashion sense and makeup style fit well the cosmetics brand’s image.
The Jewelry member is to shoot advertisements for Maybelline’s new products like “Unstoppable Shiny Black Mascara,” “Watershine Essence Lipstick” and “Angel Fit Powder” on June 4.
Source: Newsen + krnloop
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J-Walk Kim Jae Duk enlists on June 4
June 2, 2008
Sechskies former member and J-walk member Kim Jae Duk (29) is enlisting in the compulsory military service on the afternoon of June 4 at the Nonsan military training center. After 5 weeks of training in the said center, Kim is to fulfill his compulsory military service in active military duty.
In a phone interview today by Mydaily with J-Walk’s agency, JS Entertainment, it revealed that Kim Jae Duk’s decision to fulfill his compulsory military service was a sudden one. In fact, it came as a shock to the agency because J-Walk is to release its 3rd album and music video this month.
Source: Mydaily + krnloop
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“Female BIG BANG” + Sandara Park = ?
June 4, 2008
YG Entertainment’s “Female BIG BANG,” which is composed of Park Bom, Gong Minji and CL, might turn out to be a quartet!
According to a YG Entertainment official, it is currently being discussed whether Sandara Park, who started her showbiz career in 2004 after joining the star search “Star Circle Quest” in the Philippines, will be added to the trio.
In a message by Yang Hyun Suk that was posted in the agency’s official website last May 19, Yang mentioned that Sandara Park came back to Korea a year ago and is preparing to debut as an actress and that as a singer, compared to Park Bom, Gong Minji and CL, Sandara Park still has more work to do.
Source: Hankooki + krnloop |
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Nikkei awards 2008 Asia Prizes
Nikkei Inc. has announced the three winners of the 2008 Nikkei Asia Prizes, which recognize achievements that contribute to the improved well-being of Asian people.
In the category of regional growth, Wang Canfa, 49, Director of the Center of Legal Assistance to Pollution Victims in China at China University of Political Science and Law, received the award for his efforts to promote public awareness of the environment, law-abiding spirit, and to supervise the proper enforcement of environmental laws by supporting legal actions by pollution victims.
In the science, technology and innovation category, C.N.R. Rao, 73, National Research Professor and Honorary President & Linus Pauling Research Professor, Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research, received the award in honor of his contribution to solid state chemistry and spectroscopy by writing 1,500 publications. And as a chairperson on the Science Advisory Board of India under five prime ministers, he has contributed to policies for science and technology in India.
Ahn Sung-ki, 56, South Korean film actor, won the culture prize in honor of his activity as a cultural custodian and spokesperson of South Korean film culture on behalf of the entire film industry, and of his leadership in international co-productions involving Japan, China, South Korea.
Source: http://www.nni.nikkei.co.jp/FR/NIKKEI/inasia/prizes/2008/ |
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News Index PAGE 14
May 23, 2008: Actor Ahn Sung-Ki Receives Nikkei Asia Award
June 2: LP6's Guide to Summer 2008 Movies
June 5: "Cooking Up Romance" on KBS Off to a Smooth Start
June 5: "Formidable Rivals" Wraps at 9.4%
June 2: Stylish ballad singer to play Seoul
June 4: Bunch of Korean stars blend voices to benefit victims of China earthquake
June 4: Magicians want to make revealing segment on 慡ponge 2.0 |
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May 23, 2008
Actor Ahn Sung-Ki Receives Nikkei Asia Award
Actor Ahn Sung-ki (age 56) was selected as the winner of the culture prize of the 13th Nikkei Asia Award on May 14, sponsored by Nihon Keizai Shimbun.
Nihon Keizai Shimbun founded the award in commemoration of its 120th anniversary to honor people who have contributed to Asia's stability and development in three fields, namely economics, science and technology, and culture.
Chief judge Toyoda Shoichiro, who is also the honorary chairman of Japan's Keindanren, noted the reasons for awarding Ahn by remarking, "Ahn Sung-ki is a national film actor in South Korea, representing the country, and in Japan he acted in the movie "Sleeping Man", directed by Kohei Oguri. He has carried out a leading role as a Korean actor in co-productions involving Japan, China, and South Korea which are recently on the rise."
Ahn said in an interview with Nihon Keizai Shimbun, "Just by watching movies, we can understand the other country. Although there are some political issues between South Korea and Japan, cultural exchange must not be suspended."
Regarding the Korean wave, Ahn expressed concerns by saying, "The tendency to make quick money only is too strong", and added, "Without mutual trust, the Korean wave cannot continue for a long time."
Source: http://en.koreaspot.com/03art/01_view.html?no=790&page=1 |
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June 5, 2008
"Cooking Up Romance" on KBS Off to a Smooth Start
"Cooking Up Romance," a brand new drama series on KBS 2TV, is off to a smooth start.
According to AGB Nielson Media Research, the first episode of "Cooking Up Romance" recorded viewer ratings of 9.6%.
Although the viewer ratings failed to exceed the 10% mark, it was twice as high as the final episode of the sitcom "Unstoppable Wedding," which had preceded the new drama.
Meanwhile, "Elephant," a daily MBC sitcom which airs on the same time slot as "Cooking Up Romance," recorded viewer ratings of 8.2%.
The new drama series is a remake of a popular drama series entitled "Seoul Ttukbaegi" that was aired on KBS in the early 1990s.
The first episode of "Tokyo Sun-Shower," a four-part special drama series on SBS, recorded viewer ratings of 6.3%, "Yisan" on MBC recorded 29.8% and "Formidable Rivals" on KBS recorded 7.6%.
Source: KBS Global
http://english.kbs.co.kr/entertainment/news/1527853_11858.html |
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June 5, 2008
"Formidable Rivals" Wraps at 9.4%
The KBS2 TV Monday-Tuesday drama, "Formidable Rivals," ended on June 3rd, with the final episode ratings unable to break through 10%.
According to AGB Nielsen Media Research, the last episode of "Formidable Rivals" did, however, receive the highest rating (9.4%) of its broadcasts. The drama started airing on April 14th and its average TV ratings were calculated at 7.7%.
Starring Chae Rim, Lee Jong-hyuk and Lee Jin-wook, "Formidable Rivals" was a TV drama about the lives of Secret Service agents who worked at the Blue House. Though the plot was unique, it was overshadowed by the popularity of the MBC period piece, "Yisan, Wind of the Palace."
On June 3rd, the TV ratings of "Yisan" were 28.9% and the ratings of the SBS drama "Tokyo Sun Shower" were recorded at 4.2%.
The production filling the "Formidable Rivals" spot will be the martial arts period drama, "Chil-wu, the Mighty," starring Eric and Ku Hye-sun. Its first broadcast will be on June 9th.
Source: KBS Global
http://english.kbs.co.kr/entertainment/news/1527947_11858.html |
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June 02, 2008
Stylish ballad singer to play Seoul
Korean ballad singer/songwriter Kim Dong-ryul will perform in Seoul next week. [JoongAng Ilbo]
Korean singer/songwriter Kim Dong-ryul has epitomized stylish ballads on the Korean music scene for the last 15 years.
With sentimental melodies and poetic lyrics, his hit songs have long been Korean guys |
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June 04, 2008
[Talk of the town] Bunch of Korean stars blend voices to benefit victims of China earthquake
Stars sometimes shine their brightest in dark moments.
Some 30 Korean stars, including singer-producer Park Jin-young, K-pop girl group Wonder Girls, hallyu actor Park Yong-ha, actress Kim Ah-jung and champion figure skater Kim Yu-na recorded a single to raise funds and console the victims of the recent earthquake that claimed the lives of some 69,000 people in Sichuan Province, western China.
It is part of the 揑 Love Asia |
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June 04, 2008
[TALK OF THE TOWN] Magicians want to make revealing segment on 慡ponge 2.0 |
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June 5, 2008
Eric, Exciting Attempt at Historical Drama
Anyone being enlisted into the army agonizes over how to spend their last moments. A famous pop culture idol is hit with that feeling even harder. Whether it be a singer or an actor, their most shining moment is when they leave an everlasting memory of themselves as they part with their fans.
Eric from the group Shinhwa, decided to make a historical drama his final masterpiece before his enlistment. The new drama, Choe Gangchilu, which will be on every Mondays and Tuesdays starting on the 9th on KBS 2TV, will be the first historical drama for the singer, Eric, who has also been busy taking part as an actor recently. It is also his debut KBS drama.
On the 4th at the Gwanghwanun KT art hall in Seoul, Eric announced during the (press conference?) 揑n truth I planned to enlist after Shinhwa抯 10th anniversary concert, but coincidentally I received a good part and now plan to enlist after finishing the drama Choe Gangchilu匢抦 very glad that I received this opportunity to experience acting in a historical play and taking part in a KBS project |
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June 5, 2008
Rotoscoped Film Shows Life in '4D'
By Lee Hyo-won
Staff Reporter
"Life Is Cool'' is a rotoscoped film about three best friends ― from left, a heartbroken Romeo
and a hopeless romantic and far right, a goofy playboy ― fall for the same woman.
/ Courtesy of CJ Entertainment
Director Choe Ik-hwan ("Whispering Corridors 4: Voice") brings "Life Is Cool," South Korea's first rotoscoped film. In this HD film project by CJ Entertainment, local production company DNA, which whipped up animation and graphics for "The Animatrix," creates hip visuals for a friendly love story.
Rotoscoping is a process in which animators trace over a live action sequence, frame by frame. It goes beyond computer-generated imagery for larger than life effects. By utilizing what's only possible in animation, it gives 3D action added dimension ― it's tech savvy and digital but breathes life into the film.
"Life" took only a month of actual shooting but almost two years and 140 artists for rotoscoping. One may wonder, why go through the trouble, as leading lady Park Ye-jin said. The director said he was inspired by "Waking Life," a rotoscoped film that captures human life despite being digital.
The movie takes advantage of the beauty of animation, which enables "cameos" like the recently burnt down national treasure Soongnyemun and Hollywood star Jennifer Aniston.
"Life" is fresh. As an animation, the constrained palette and simple silhouettes are markedly distinct from American or Japanese animations. While the subject matter ― complicated affairs of the heart ― is nothing new, its narrative approach is novel as it takes a "4D" look into life and love by delving deep into the male psyche.
In a press preview last week, Choe told reporters he was in trouble because the plot was inspired by a friend's actual story. It's basically about three best friends falling for the same woman and traces the respective dating styles of a goofy playboy, reckless Romeo and hopeless romantic.
In the movie, casting is key in establishing believable and amiable characters. Funny man Kim Su-ro draws laughs with his lax demeanor and ad lib-ridden lines as Il-gwon, a womanizing Ph.D student searching for the perfect wife. Kang Seo-jin capitalizes on his gentleman image as Tae-yeong, a disheartened teacher who violently refuses to forget his first love.
Comedian Kim Jin-su transforms his hearty laughter and beefy physique to play Seong-hun, the big guy with the sensitive heart who cooks like a veteran housewife while dreaming about the woman of his dreams.
Il-gwon turns his suave playboy tactics into top gear as he contemplates between two perspective wives, a rich but silly young woman or a beautiful but poor and sickly one. Our conniving playboy slowly falls in love with the latter, Yeon-u. However, things get complicated when she turns out to be Tae-yeong's ex-girlfriend he never got over and the very manifestation of Seong-hun's dream girl.
What could have stopped short of being a lighthearted romantic comedy gains added depth through sophisticated character development and layered narrative. The characters have flaws, tics and talents that are annoying and endearing, and they reflect different degrees of people we know. "Life" paints a portrait of urban life in Korea, as young men weep about careers, love, sex and friendships over a glass of soju or splash around like schoolboys in a public bath ― in the latter scene, "overexposures" were conveniently solved by rotoscoping.
This is a seriously funny animation for adults that will make you crave a round of drinks with old buddies.
Credits: [email protected]
http://www.koreatimes.co.kr/www/news/art/2008/06/141_25412.html |
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June 5, 2008
[HERALD INTERVIEW] Korean power behind 'Kung Fu Panda'
"Kung Fu Panda," a new animated feature from DreamWorks, thrives on its sophisticated cinematography. When the main character named Po suffers a punch, the screen shifts into slow-motion for greater effect. When Po provides a slapstick gag, the camera does not move, allowing the audiences to enjoy the scene as it is.
The enhanced techniques have been spearheaded by Jhun Yong-duk, head of layout at DreamWorks -- equivalent to cinematographer or director of photography in conventional filmmaking.
It was Jeffrey Katzenberg, chief executive officer of DreamWorks, who asked Jhun to revamp the cinematography to give "Kung Fu Panda" its seamless and uninterrupted visuals.
"One day, I had a breakfast with Mr. Katzenberg, and he told me that 'Kung Fu Panda' should be made as a really cinematic film, so I did my homework, for about two months, and then gave a presentation to him about the cinematic camera technique, and he liked it," Jhun said in an interview with The Korea Herald on Wednesday.
It was a critical and rewarding moment for Jhun because he received not only Katzenberg's recognition but also got a chance to incorporate his own ideas into a global animated feature -- something he had dreamed of when he first set foot in the animation industry.
Jhun, 36, was born in Seoul and graduated from the University of Seoul in 1996. He entered Keumkang Communications, an advertising agency and started his work in the design department. But he decided to study in the United States in order to achieve his dream of working in a major animation studio such as DreamWorks and Disney.
After graduating from the prestigious School of Visual Arts, he briefly worked at an art studio in New York. "At the studio, we analyzed the art of Marcel Duchamp, using computer graphics but after five or six months there, I realized that's not what I really wanted to do," Jhun said.
In 2001, he moved to Chicago to Big Idea Productions to work as a layout artist, formally starting his career in the animation industry. But he confronted an unexpected challenge in April 2003 when Big Idea Production went bankrupt following the failure of a major animation project. "Suddenly I got laid off, and at the time my son had just been born, so I was really worried about what I had to do," Jhun said.
Jhun scrambled to find a new job because, if he couldn't, he would have had to return to Korea due to visa problems. He frantically sent his portfolio to various animation companies. Fortunately, he got a call from an animation company in New Jersey, notifying an opening for him. And then something unexpected happened. As he was settling in New Jersey, he got a call -- this time from DreamWorks.
After a telephone interview, DreamWorks hired him, opening up a new career path for Jhun -- an animation artist at the very studio he wanted to work for. Jhun worked on various projects at the studio, but "Kung Fu Panda" was special for him because it was his first as head of layout.
Working as head of layout for "Kung Fu Panda" was a combination of happenstance and talent. As the project was delayed for longer than expected, the original head of layout moved to Disney. DreamWorks had to find a new layout chief.
"I applied for the job, and I stressed that I was born in Korea and I knew a lot about Asian culture and sensibility, and if the company wanted to incorporate Asian culture and include many action scenes, in which I have expertise, I said I would do it better than the others," he said. The next day, Jhun was told he got the job.
Jhun said "Kung Fu Panda," which took five years to make, showcases not only a very interesting story, but also rich Asian flavors in terms of distinctive visual effects and angles.
Jhun, who is now working on "Shrek 4," said the new installment of the Shrek franchise will be dramatically different. "The new Shrek film is being produced as a three-dimensional feature that will require audiences to use stereoscopes, so it will come as a very new movie," he said.
"Kung Fu Panda," distributed by CJ Entertainment, was released nationwide yesterday.
By Yang Sung-jin ([email protected])
http://www.koreaherald.co.kr/ |
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June 5, 2008
HA Jung-woo in Korea-Japan co-production
HA Jung-woo will star together with the Japanese actor Satoshi Tsumabuki in a film tentatively titled House. KIM Young-nam is at the helm of the project and Aya Watanabe writes the scenario.
HA and Tsumabuki will portray smugglers who work together while they are based at each side of the East Sea. Complications arise when they receive the order to kidnap a Korean woman together.
HA commanded attention with his role in YOON Jong-bin抯 The Unforgiven (Yongseo Batji Mothan Ja). He extended his name internationally with Gina KIM抯 Never Forever (Doobeonjjae Sarang). With his latest film The Chaser (Choogyeokja) he also scored a major box office hit.
KIM directed the film Don抰 Look Back (Nae Cheongchunaegae Goham) which was invited by the Locarno International Film Festival for its 2006 international competition section where it received the FIPRESCI and NETPAC awards. His debut film Outcry of Youth was selected for KOFIC抯 2005 Production Support Program for International Co-productions. Outcry of Youth was also a Korea-Japan co-production.
Tsumabuki is known for his role in Josee, the Tiger and the Fish. Watanabe is also responsible for the scenarios of La Maison de Himiko and Josee, the Tiger and the Fish.
Kraze Pictures (Korea) and IMJ Entertainment (Japan) share an equal financial share in the production which is scheduled for a release in 2009.
Yi Ch'ang-ho (KOFIC)
http://www.koreanfilm.or.kr/KOFIC/Channel/
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Thanks to kdramafanusa at soompi.com for the highlight
June 6, 2008
Wedding date set for celebrity couple
Yoo Jae-seok, a hugely popular comedian and show host, will marry his broadcaster-fiance Nah Kyoung-eun on July 6, Yoo said at a press conference Wednesday.
Nah, who works for MBC, was not by Yoo's side at the conference held in Goyang, Gyeonggi Province, as she is on business trip to the United States. About 150 reporters showed up at the event where Yoo, best known as a main emcee of the popular MBC variety "Muhan Dojeon (Infinite Challenge)," fielded questions on their marriage schedules and love story.
The couple first met on the set of "Muhandojeon" two years ago, but, according to Yoo, 35, he didn't even dream of marrying her at the beginning. "I used to say that I wanted to marry an announcer on television, even before I met her. And that made it harder for me to develop the relationship as I wished," said Yoo, seriously but happily, during the press conference.
The veteran entertainer didn't hesitate to give an answer when asked when the two kissed for the first time. "Our first kiss was in the car. It was after two months of dating," he said.
Known for his good-natured and humble style of presenting, quite a few programs Yoo has been emceeing were, and still are, ranked in the top 10 most watched entertainment shows.
Yoo who was discovered in 1991 through a talent search organized by KBS was a late bloomer. Nearly a decade after his debut, Yoo landed a short but regular spot on the Seo Se-won Show that was the real start to Yoo's career as a star comedian.
Once he was recognized for his candor, charm and friendly image, however, offers to host shows rolled in. For years now, he is among television's most sought-after presenters.
Today Yoo is also the highest paid television presenter, reportedly earning 8 million to 9 million won ($8,000-$9,000) per episode. It is estimated that his annual earnings are approximately 200 million won this year.
After the press conference, Yoo made a heart with his hands for his future wife. "I heard my future in-laws didn't expect her daughters would marry an entertainer. But now they feel comfortable about telling our relationship to their friends and relatives. My parents love my fiance of course. You know, she got this sweetness that makes everyone happy," You smiled.
Yoo is currently looking for the right place for their wedding, he said. Yoo's fellow comedian Lee Hui-jae will host the couple's wedding, while singer Kim Jong-gook is scheduled to be the wedding singer.
By Lee Yong-sung
([email protected])
Source: The Korea Herald
Photos: Hankyung, Starnews |
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Wednesday, 04 June 2008
Kim to direct remake of France's "Max"
Written by John Hopewell and Patrick Frater
Investment from outside the U.S. continued to fuel high-profile projects at Cannes, as Kim Jee-woon, the sought-after Korean director whose "The Good the Bad the Weird" wrapped the fest's special screenings, signed to helm a remake of 1970s French classic "Max et les Ferrailleurs" (Max and the Junkmen). Thriller is the first to be advanced under a three-picture deal between France's StudioCanal and Lion Rock Prods., John Woo and Terence Chang's Los Angeles production shingle. The Asian filmmakers plan to tap into the Gallic conglom's extensive library of French and English-language titles for possible remakes. "I'm a big fan of French noir, especially Claude Sautet's films, and I'd like to move this one to modern times," Kim tells Variety.
Sautet's "Max" had the titular lonesome detective (Michel Piccoli) setting up some small-time thieves to pull a heist, thinking he'd arrest them and boost his flagging reputation. But Max falls for the gang leader's gal, played by Romy Schneider.
"It will be important to concentrate on the two central characters' relationship and keep the emotions," Kim says.
Pic, to be titled simply "Max," will be made as an English-language retread scripted by Howard Rodman and possibly set in the U.S. Budget and casting have yet to be determined, though StudioCanal says it would aim for significant star power and delivery in spring 2009.
Kim says "Max" will be his next helming gig.
"Max" is set up as a production involving Zip Cinema's Lee Eugene, Chang and Woo, and Black Mask Prods.' Hugo Bergson-Vuillaume. StudioCanal's senior veep Ron Halpern will take an exec producer credit. Kim, Lee and Chang are CAA clients.
Development to date is covered by StudioCanal. It's envisaged that "Max" will be fully financed by StudioCanal, which may take international rights.
The Kim deal ties down one of Asia's brightest young helming talent. The reported $17 million budget of "The Good The Bad The Weird," an energetic Korean Western, is on the high side by Korean standards. Its enthusiastic Cannes reception looks set to broaden Kim's considerable following.
'Kim's one of the best directors working today," Chang says. "He can do anything."
Echoes StudioCanal CEO Olivier Courson, "I was incredibly impressed by 'A Bittersweet Life,' and the solitary character there has parallels in 'Max.' "
The "Max" redo also underscores the ranging ambition of StudioCanal's amped-up production strategy under Courson. It's a forceful reminder that, with movies in the mid-budget range or below, a bevy of Gallic companies are moving in on key talent. And their radar's not limited to Europe.
StudioCanal remains fully committed to producing high-profile French films, usually in the $11 million-$19 million range, Courson explains.
But it will also make "auteur films with commercial potential, and more entertainment-driven, 'biggest-budget' films. For the latter, at $60 million-$70 million, we're look for U.S. partners," he adds.
"We want to make international titles that are very ambitious and very entertaining. Thrillers fit both descriptions," Courson says.
Further titles will be produced by Will Clarke at StudioCanal's U.K. subsid Optimum Releasing. During Cannes, Clarke announced Brit redos of "Brighton Rock" and 1981 French hitman thriller "Le Choc."
Courson says StudioCanal is "highly interested" in working with Asian talent. Last year, it produced Wong Kar-wai's "My Blueberry Nights." It's now preparing a Johnnie To-helmed remake of "Le Cercle Rouge." That pic, budgeted at roughly $35 million, has a start date of Sept 20.
StudioCanal confirmed its Neil Moritz-produced remake of "Escape From New York" remains on course, even after New Line Cinema's downsizing.
Source: Variety Asia
http://www.varietyasiaonline.com/content/view/6222/ |
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June 05 2008
Kim Ji-Woon and John Woo Teaming For Remake Of MAX ET LES FERRAILLEURS!
Posted by Todd Brown
Oh, my ... it抯 mighty hard not to get excited about the possibilities of this one. Korean director Kim Ji-Woon - of The Good The Bad And The Weird, A Bittersweet Life and A Tale of Two Sisters fame - is reportedly teaming up with Hong Kong legend John Woo for an English language remake of 1970抯 French heist film Max et les Ferrailleurs. Kim will be directing with Woo and his business partner Terence Chang producing, which is a sort of crazy Asian dream team, really. Between this and the upcoming Johnnie To remake of Le Cercle Rouge I抦 going to have to brush up on my French action films ...
Source: twitchfilm.net |
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Author
Post time 4-6-2008 11:05 PM
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