Park Chan-wook Reveals 'Oldboy' Production Secrets on 'You Quiz'

Acclaimed director Park Chan-wook appeared on the tvN show 'You Quiz on the Block,' sharing intriguing behind-the-scenes stories from his iconic film 'Oldboy.' He also elaborated on his filmmaking philosophy regarding adaptations.

Park stated, "When adapting original works like novels or comics into films, one shouldn't show excessive reverence. Film is a different medium with its own grammar and expressions." He emphasized that treating the original work as something to be worshipped can be detrimental, viewing the source material more as a seed of inspiration rather than something to be copied verbatim.

He further recalled the challenges during the making of 'Oldboy,' particularly concerning the villain's motivations, portrayed by Yoo Ji-tae. Park found the original reason for the villain's grudge to be weak and unconvincing, leading him to believe a cinematic reinterpretation was necessary. He admitted to a period of intense 고민 (gomin - contemplation) driven by youthful ambition.

The breakthrough came when he shifted his focus from 'Why was Oh Dae-su imprisoned?' to 'Why was he released?' Park explained that this pivotal question, which struck him during a brief moment in a restroom, triggered a chain reaction of ideas, ultimately resolving the mystery of his confinement and revealing the secrets within the narratives of Choi Min-sik, Kang Hye-jung, and Yoo Ji-tae.

Park Chan-wook's 'Oldboy' (2003) earned him the Grand Prix at the Cannes Film Festival, cementing his status as a globally renowned filmmaker. His distinctive visual style and compelling narratives have significantly elevated Korean cinema on the international stage. His films consistently explore profound themes of human nature and societal issues, resonating deeply with audiences and critics worldwide.