Park Chan-wook's Latest Film 'Useless' Spotlights Yeom Hye-ran as Hidden Heroine, Continues Legacy of Desire-Driven Women

Director Park Chan-wook's cinematic universe has consistently been defined by its compelling female characters. These are not just figures in a story; they are potent forces, unswayed by societal norms, fiercely pursuing their desires and ambitions.

From Lee Young-ae's Geum-ja in 'Lady Vengeance' and Kim Ok-vin's Tae-ju in 'Thirst,' to Kim Min-hee's Hideko and Kim Tae-ri's Sook-hee in 'The Handmaiden,' and Tang Wei's Seo-rae in 'Decision to Leave,' Park's women have always been protagonists driven by their innermost cravings.

His latest work, 'Useless' (working title), ostensibly centers on Man-soo, portrayed by Lee Byung-hun, as his life crumbles and he fights to protect his family and home. Yet, beneath the surface, the film echoes Park's signature exploration of female agency.

Son Ye-jin's Mi-ri, Man-soo's wife, appears passive at first glance but asserts herself decisively at crucial junctures, navigating challenges to preserve her family. More strikingly, however, is Ara, the wife of Beom-mo (Lee Sung-min), played by Yeom Hye-ran. Despite facing repeated setbacks in her acting career, Ara remains undeterred in her pursuit of fulfillment.

Ara embodies a hidden desire, perhaps mirroring Mi-ri's own suppressed ambitions. While Mi-ri sacrifices her personal expressions for the sake of 'family,' Ara continues her auditions, refusing to abandon her aspirations. Furthermore, she doesn't hesitate to engage in an affair or remove obstacles in her path, positioning her as a complex character operating on the fringes of villainy and support.

Yeom Hye-ran's masterful control of her performance, capturing Ara's free-spirited nature, has led to her being hailed as a 'revelation' in this film. 'Useless' thus adds another captivating female character to Park Chan-wook's enduring gallery of women who refuse to relinquish their desires, regardless of the consequences.

Yeom Hye-ran is a highly respected actress known for her versatility across film, television, and theater. She first gained significant recognition for her roles in the critically acclaimed drama 'Signal' and the popular series 'When the Camellia Blooms.' Her ability to portray complex and nuanced characters with authenticity has earned her numerous awards and a dedicated fanbase.