[Interview] "A Comedy That Leaves an Afterimage"... Ryu Seung-ryong's Theory of Comedy in 'Jangreuman Romance'

[Asia Economy Reporter Lee Isul] Actor Ryu Seung-ryong once again showcases his comedic talent with "Genre Only Romance," following the blockbuster "Extreme Job" (2019). While the 'genre' is just a backdrop, the witty and detailed emotional expressions resonate deeply. Once again, Ryu Seung-ryong is running full throttle.

In a virtual interview held on the morning of the 5th for the film "Genre Only Romance," Ryu Seung-ryong said, "Every relationship begins with romance," adding, "I liked that this work expressed the joys and sorrows of relationships."

Set to be released on the 17th, "Genre Only Romance" depicts the variety-filled private life of a bestselling author whose work and life become tangled after meeting people involved in an unusual romance. Directed by Jo Eun-ji, who won the Jury Special Prize at the 16th Mise-en-sc?ne Short Film Festival for her short film "2 Nights 3 Days," this is her first feature film as a director rather than an actor.

Ryu Seung-ryong plays Kim Hyun, a bestselling author who has been on hiatus for seven years, delivering his trademark cheerful energy.

He explained about the film, saying, "The character is pathetic but endearing, making you think, 'I had moments like that too,' which is attractive. It draws out honesty and courage with a warm perspective based on respect for humanity. Our lives are harsh. Things don’t always go as planned. The film also reflects the fatigue of everyday life."

"Genre Only Romance" looks into human relationships through the theme of romance. Ryu Seung-ryong said, "It reflects how people get hurt by careless words. Sometimes we unintentionally hurt others or get hurt ourselves. I also took time to reflect on those aspects."

Previously, Ryu Seung-ryong led weighty films such as "The Fortress" and "Masquerade." In "Extreme Job," he played a detective disguised as a fried chicken shop owner, delivering sly humor with the line, "There’s never been a taste like this before." He unleashes tremendous comedic prowess again in "Genre Only Romance."

"I worked with master director Jang Jin, who once dominated comedy, on 12 films. I internalized the comedy that seeps from the text during that time. Director Lee Byung-heon’s sense of language is similar to Jang Jin’s. The detailed physical expressions I learned from performing non-verbal performance 'Nanta' for five years helped me grasp universal humor codes from various countries. Those experiences have been helpful. I feel rewarded when many people enjoy it."

Ryu Seung-ryong said he had built up his comedic skills not only in films but also on stage over a long period. He also shared his comedy philosophy developed through this experience.

He emphasized, "I like comedy that doesn’t evaporate quickly. Comedy that leaves a lasting impression and makes you think even while laughing. I prefer black comedy rich in pathos."

In fact, Ryu Seung-ryong actively supported Jo Eun-ji, a junior actor from the same agency, on her directorial debut. In the interview, he wholeheartedly cheered for the director, saying, "Jo Eun-ji burst into tears after yesterday’s premiere. She has quietly carried a heavy burden on her small, slender shoulders throughout this journey."

He also said filming with a director who was formerly an actor made the process smoother. Ryu Seung-ryong said, "Her body language was excellent, becoming her unique language as a director. There were scenes that were hard to imagine no matter how much I thought about them, but the director expressed those parts clearly. Her gestures were almost perfect."

In the film, Kim Hyun is a top author who struggles to write for a living. Through Yoo Jin, an aspiring writer who writes boldly, he discovers his past self.

Ryu Seung-ryong said, "Kim Hyun has to write under the pressure of meeting deadlines and earning child support, so it’s not easy. I related to the setting of living a trapped daily life and facing a slump. When I act all night until my voice is hoarse, I recall my initial passion and enthusiasm when I debuted. Now, physically, I can’t produce the same energy. But through this work, I reflected on that mindset."

He also felt similar burdens living as an actor constantly competing without rest. He confessed, "Films are inevitably judged by scores (numbers). When the results are poor, I feel down, powerless, and self-conscious. At those times, I hypnotize myself with 'It’s okay. Let’s do well,' but I can’t help but shrink."

He added, "At those times, I give myself a gift. I listen to my inner voice by walking a lot. Walking the Olle Trail in Jeju Island or the Jirisan Dulle-gil is very refreshing. Another source of strength is my wife and children. I gain great energy from them and try to pull myself together."

Following the phased recovery guidelines from the 1st, major theaters such as CGV, Lotte Cinema, and Megabox have created and operated 'vaccine pass theaters' and scheduled late-night screenings, gradually regaining vitality.

He said his determination to present the film amid this atmosphere is special. Ryu Seung-ryong said, "I didn’t realize how precious and valuable ordinary daily life was before. Now I understand that the experience of watching a movie and talking together in the same space was a great source of energy." He added, "'Genre Only Romance' hopes to open the door to the 'With Corona' era and serve as a catalyst for more people to share cinematic experiences with their loved ones."

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This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.