Director Jang Hwang-jun spoke candidly about his rollercoaster-like life in film.
On the night of the 23rd, the KBS 1TV movie talk show 'Life is a Film' featured director Jang Hwang-jun, who is also serving as the chairman of the Jecheon International Music and Film Festival, alongside MC Lee Jae-sung and film critic Liner, where they engaged in a lively discussion.
During the broadcast, when asked about the background of accepting the chairmanship of the Jecheon Film Festival, director Jang Hwang-jun showcased his unique sense of humor by stating, "In the Joseon era, the happiest job would be the son of a local governor, and Jecheon is just right."
Regarding the Jecheon International Music and Film Festival, one of Korea's four major film festivals, which specializes in film music, director Jang emphasized, "This year's event will break away from the existing framework and expand into a festival where film and music breathe together," expressing his strong confidence by stating, "The film industry's Gimbap Cheonguk, where every menu item exceeds average quality."
Meanwhile, a fiery debate on film music took place. Liner stated, "The music of 'The Host' has a presence that jumps out beyond the visuals," while the other participant recommended the music from 'The Tale of Two Sisters' and 'Decision to Leave', highlighting that both agreed film music goes beyond simple background sound and is essential to the film experience.
Director Jang Hwang-jun, who recommended 'In the Mood for Love', 'Raging Bull', and 'Conclave', expressed his dream of working with world-renowned masters like Hans Zimmer, while also acknowledging the realistic challenges, saying, "It's not easy to modify music when working with a master."
In a segment reflecting on director Jang Hwang-jun's filmography, his debut work 'Turn on the Lighter' became the topic of discussion. Liner analyzed the work, stating, "It's a piece that precedes 'Snowpiercer', showcasing a reduced societal structure within a limited space and illustrating changes in power."
However, for his second film 'Blow, Spring Breeze', the evaluation was that it did not meet expectations in terms of performance or reviews compared to the debut work, with director Jang saying it was "the most regrettable work," showing deep disappointment. The other participant comforted him by stating, "Both music and film have sophomore jinxes," to which MC Lee Jae-sung joked, "And that's why you've been lying low for 10 years?"
After a long hiatus, director Jang Hwang-jun's drama-like film life has left a deep impression on viewers, with new historical dramas like 'Night of Memories' and 'Rebound' set to premiere.
'Life is a Film', a talk show that goes beyond simple reviews to reflect on moments when film becomes life, airs every Saturday night at 11:15 p.m. on KBS 1TV.
[Photo] OSEN DB, captured
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