[Sportschosun] The sci-fi thriller "HOPE" (directed by Na Hong-jin and produced by Forged Films) has raised expectations with a star-studded cast that includes Hollywood actors Michael Fassbender, Alicia Vikander, Taylor Russell, and Cameron Britton.
To bring the story of "HOPE" to life, director Na Hong-jin wanted to highlight the contrast and strangeness between humans and aliens. He cast Korean actors as the people of Hope Harbor and overseas actors for the alien characters. Michael Fassbender, Alicia Vikander, Taylor Russell, and Cameron Britton, all of whom have drawn global attention for their strong screen presence and acting, joined the film as alien characters and filmed motion-capture and facial-capture scenes in Korea. Their nuanced performances, which also suggest each character's backstory, add depth and vitality to the film's narrative and its alien figures.
Michael Fassbender and Alicia Vikander, who said they are both huge fans of Na Hong-jin, explained that they first discovered the director through "The Wailing" and were completely captivated by it. "It was amazing, original, fresh, and the story was so powerful. Getting the chance to work with the director was truly exciting for us," they said. In the film, Fassbender plays Maveiyo, a warrior and soldier who serves the empress, while Vikander transforms into Empress Jo-r.
On "HOPE," Fassbender said, "His approach to the genre felt very fresh. I really like the way Na Hong-jin portrays humanity, including human flaws and strengths, courage and weakness." He delivers a striking presence and gaze that seem to pierce through the creature's outer shell. Vikander also leaves a strong impression as a completely different being, saying, "Being able to fully immerse myself in this world, and to become a creature and an alien, was incredibly interesting."
Taylor Russell, the young actress who drew attention after winning the Marcello Mastroianni Award at the 79th Venice International Film Festival for "Bones and All," plays Aido-bor, one of Jo-r's attendants. Russell said, "I felt there was something very powerful about this project, and at the same time it felt very mysterious." She added, "There is no other work like this film, so I am really looking forward to the moment audiences get to see it."
Cameron Britton, who made a strong impression as a notorious killer in "Mindhunter," plays Bami-gir, a lower-class character who appears first in Hope Harbor. Britton said, "Playing a character for whom survival is everything felt very unique and challenging." He further heightens curiosity by convincingly portraying a character torn between anger and fear.
"HOPE" tells the story of a branch manager in Hope Harbor, located in the DMZ, who hears from local young men that a tiger has appeared. As the entire village goes on alert, the story unfolds as the characters confront an unbelievable reality. The film stars Hwang Jung-min, Jo In-sung, Hoyeon Jung, Taylor Russell, Cameron Britton, Alicia Vikander, and Michael Fassbender. It is directed by Na Hong-jin, known for "The Chaser," "The Yellow Sea," and "The Wailing." The film will be released on July 15.
Jo Ji-young, reporter soulhn1220@sportschosun.com
