Park Jung-min Returns with 'Face,' Portraying Dual Roles in Low-Budget Thriller

Actor Park Jung-min is making a comeback to the big screen with the film 'Face,' a project he pursued even at a reduced fee. After a hiatus focused on his publishing company, 'Mujae,' he is set to captivate audiences with a dual performance, embodying two distinct characters within the narrative.

In a recent interview with Sports Seoul, Park expressed his delight at the audience's attention, stating, "I didn't have high expectations because it's a small film, but it's encouraging that so many viewers are showing interest." 'Face,' adapted from Yeon Sang-ho's graphic novel, delves into the mystery surrounding the death of a mother, explored by her visually impaired artisan father and their son.

Park reflected on the film's reception, noting, "I thought it was a very Korean story, so I was worried about how North American audiences would receive it. But surprisingly, people watched it with smiles. I thought perhaps everyone has their own story deep down. It carries a message about society, but it can also be a personal story." He further praised the film's raw portrayal of societal issues and human complexities, saying, "I liked that it unfiltered included various messages, distorted expressions, and excessive portrayals."

Despite its minimal budget of 200 million KRW and a tight 3-week shooting schedule, 'Face' achieves a compelling narrative density. Park humorously revealed that he only learned about the no-guarantee (무료 출연) aspect after being cast, later clarifying he opted to have his compensation used for the crew's celebratory meal instead of accepting a full fee.

His demanding role required him to portray both the son investigating his mother's death and the visually impaired husband who loved his wife. "When playing the younger husband, I wanted to express a sense of shame," Park explained. "I pondered how to show someone smiling while feeling humiliated, considering the societal attitudes and discrimination faced by people with disabilities back then." He emphasized that the core of his performance was not about mimicking visual impairment but about conveying the character's twisted inner turmoil and emotions.

Following 'Face,' Park had announced a year-long break to focus on his publishing endeavors. However, his time away reaffirmed his passion for acting. "Operating the publishing company made me realize how much I want to act," he confessed. "The film set is the place I feel happiest and most comfortable." He concluded, "I have no regrets about the break; it was a period that helped me realize I love meeting people through my work."

Park Jung-min took on the challenging dual role of a son investigating his mother's death and the younger version of his visually impaired father in the film 'Face'. He had previously announced a year-long hiatus to focus on his publishing company, 'Mujae'. This break, however, ultimately strengthened his resolve and reaffirmed his deep passion for acting.