From Go Hyun-jung's 'The Mantis' to Im Si-wan's 'The Mantis': Two Different Worlds Collide
As the SBS Friday-Saturday drama 'The Mantis: Killer's Outing' approaches its finale, anticipation is building for the Netflix film 'The Mantis,' starring Im Si-wan, which is set to release and pick up the baton.
The SBS drama 'The Mantis: Killer's Outing' is heightening suspense as its conclusion nears. The joint investigation between serial killer mother Jeong Yi-shin (Go Hyun-jung) and detective son Cha Soo-yeol (Jang Dong-yoon) is nearing its end, with suspicion surrounding the true culprit behind the copycat murders intensifying. Suspects include Cha Soo-yeol's wife, Lee Jeong-yeon (Kim Bo-ra), Jeong Yi-shin herself, and former detective Choi Jung-ho (Jo Sung-ha), promising a thrilling twist until the very end.
Following this, the Netflix film 'The Mantis,' releasing on the 26th, is a spin-off of the 2023 hit 'Kill Boksoon.' While sharing the 'Kill Boksoon' universe, the film depicts the fierce battle for the top spot between top-tier killer 'The Mantis' (Im Si-wan), his trainee and rival 'Jae-yi' (Park Gyu-young), and retired legendary killer 'Dok-go' (Jo Woo-jin).
Director Lee Tae-dong explained, "The story started from the question of what choices a young, skilled individual would make when their well-established company collapses." He aimed to create a new narrative diverging from 'Kill Boksoon' through the rash decisions and naivety of younger characters.
While 'Kill Boksoon' focused on maternal themes, 'The Mantis' is set to deliver more dynamic action and humor through the power struggles and psychological warfare among three killers. Expectations are high for the fresh chemistry between Im Si-wan's sharp transformation, Park Gyu-young's vibrant energy, and Jo Woo-jin's solid presence, aiming to replicate the global success of 'Kill Boksoon'.
Im Si-wan takes on the titular role of 'The Mantis' in the new Netflix film, marking a significant shift in his acting career towards intense action and a more mature character. He has previously captivated audiences with his roles in dramas like 'Misaeng' and 'Strangers From Hell'. His portrayal of a top-tier killer is highly anticipated by fans worldwide.