Filmmaker Na Hong-Jin's War Fears Fuel 'Hope'

Filmmaker Na Hong-Jin shared that his film "Hope" originated from a profound sense of impending war on the Korean peninsula around 2017. He experienced significant unease as news reported increased military activity. This foreboding, coupled with the inherent complexities and ambiguities he perceives in human interactions, forms the bedrock of his artistic commitment.

Na detailed a unique creative journey, often drawing inspiration from unexpected encounters. His film "The Chaser" emerged from a late-night conversation with detectives, while "The Yellow Sea" was shaped by research and interactions with a gangster in Yanbian. His work on "The Wailing" involved months living among shamans.

Before writing, Na establishes a precise genre and rhythm, describing the decision as irrevocable. On set, he acts as a supervisor, prioritizing space, then character framing, and finally lighting. He intentionally avoids rigid storyboarding, preferring a fluid approach. Na emphasizes that post-production is critical, believing it determines a film's success.

Na Hong-Jin aims for his films to help audiences understand that misfortunes often have causes beyond their control, encouraging a lighter approach to burdens. While past films ended in darkness, he increasingly seeks to include glimmers of hope, though the extent of light in future works remains undecided.