It’s the golden age of entertainment, but with so many streaming services offering a vast range of content, it can be challenging to decide which one to subscribe to. That’s why Lionsgate Play is making the decision easier with their exclusive 7-day free trial, letting Smart Mobile subscribers explore a world of premium content without spending a centavo.
“We’re excited to lead Smart Mobile subscribers into the world of Lionsgate Play’s premium content with this 7-day free trial,” stated Rohit Jain, President – Lionsgate Play, Asia. “Our objective is to inspire and captivate viewers, leading them to discover our relatable, edgy, bold and compelling content.”
“At Smart, we are committed to providing our subscribers with easy access to top-notch entertainment,” said Alex O. Caeg, Head of Smart Consumer Wireless Business. “This collaboration with Lionsgate Play aligns perfectly with our mission to give our customers more value.”
What is Lionsgate Play?
Lionsgate Play offers a streaming experience that’s hard to match. It’s got an extensive library filled with blockbuster movies and critically acclaimed TV shows. From timeless classics to the latest releases, Lionsgate Play has it all. Plus, enjoy exclusive content you won’t find on other streaming platforms, such as A24’s highest-grossing horror flick Talk to Me and Liam Neeson starrer Blacklight amongst others.
How to Avail the 7-Day Free Trial
This promotion is exclusively for Smart Mobile prepaid and postpaid subscribers who have not subscribed to Lionsgate Play in the past. Here’s how you can get started with your 7-day free trial:
Register using your email address or mobile number and create a password.
Go to the Subscription page and choose “SMART” as your mode of payment.
Select your subscription plan:
Php99 for a monthly plan
Php199 for a quarterly plan
5. Enter your mobile number and proceed to the checkout page. 6. You’ll receive a One-Time Password (OTP) via SMS. 7. Enter the OTP to activate your free 7-day trial. 8. Start streaming and enjoy your favorite content!
Other Details
Automatic Renewal: On the 8th day, your subscription will be auto charged based on your chosen plan. The renewal date will align with the initial charge date.
Promo Period: The promotion runs from July 18, 2024, to October 17, 2024. Even if you subscribe on the last day, you’ll still enjoy the full 7-day trial.
One-Time Offer: Each subscriber can only avail of the promotion once during the entire period.
Easy Cancellation: You can cancel your subscription anytime during the trial period by accessing your Lionsgate Play account, navigating to the Settings> Subscription page, and clicking the deactivation button. You’ll receive confirmation of the cancellation.
Don’t miss out on this limited-time offer—start your 7-day free trial today and level up your viewing experience!
Promo runs from July 18, 2024 to October 17, 2024. Per DTI FTEB Permit No. 198343 Series of 2024
Westeros is on the brink of a bloody civil war with the Green and Black Councils fighting for King Aegon and Queen Rhaenyra, respectively. Based on George R.R. Martin’s “Fire & Blood,” and set 200 years before the events of Game of Thrones, the HBO Original drama series’ House of the Dragon Season 2 tells the story of House Targaryen.
Spoiler alert: In Season 1 of House of the Dragon, available in the Philippines through HBO GO powered by PLDT Home, Viserys I Targaryen passes on and his house is divided between the Greens – led by his son, King Aegon II Targaryen, and the Blacks – led by his daughter Queen Rhaenyra Targaryen. With allegiances being formed, the finale of House of the DragonSeason 1 also saw Rhaenyra’s second son Prince Lucerys Velaryon killed by Prince Aemond Targaryen and his dragon.
With five episodes already on HBO GO, the series has no shortage of surprises signature to the franchise and some of Season 2’s characters are proving to be more memorable than others, at least to us here. Here are our favorite characters:
Daemon had an incredible character arc in Season 1. Starting as a rogue prince whom everyone thinks wants the throne of his brother Viserys I (Paddy Considine), we saw the charismatic warrior turn into a loving brother and husband. In S1 episode eight, he helps his ailing brother sit on the Iron Throne and gently puts the crown on his head. He also beheads Vaemond Velaryon when he insults Rhaenyra. In S2, Daemon does not want to wait around for Rhaenyra to end her grieving and wants to fight for their birthright.
When will heartache end for Rhaenyra? Possibly never. In S2 episode 1 Rhaenyra grieves over Lucerys’ death. While she doesn’t want a war and wants revenge, she still shows restraint and wants to find a solution without fighting. We love Rhaenyra because even through her anger, she displays restraint.
Aemond displayed his hatred for Rhaenyra’s children early on in the first season. He lost an eye as a child while fighting with his nephew Lucerys Velaryon. He told his mother that he may have lost an eye but he gained Vhagar, one of the most powerful dragons. We see a little more of this character in S2 episode two. With how Aemond’s history in season one, we can’t help but to feel for his character.
As a member of the Kingsguard, Ser Criston is often seen breaking his oath and allegiance – first with Rhaenyra in season one and currently with Queen Alicent. By the end of episode two of the new season, he has replaced Aegon’s grandfather Otto Hightower as the King’s Hand. Much like Rhaenyra, we fell for his charm in the beginning and are eager to see what comes his way in this season.
Alicent is a highly complicated character and would do anything to keep her son on the Iron Throne. While we may not see eye to eye with her, we do respect her character’s development, determination, and how she becomes one of the key players in House of the Dragon.
The Queen who never was, Rhaenys Targaryen was married to Corlys Velaryon,Master of Driftmark and the head of House Velaryon. You can never read Rhaenys or predict what she’s going to do, nor will you ever know whose side she’s on until she wants you to know. She flexed her power at the end of the first season when she attacked King’s Landing riding on her dragon, Meleys, and more recently in Season 2 when she stands up to Daemon, telling him to let Rhaenyra grieve. While her strength was truly inspiring, we see Rhaenys fall to her death in House of the Dragon S2.
Lord Cregan Stark is on the list simply because he is a Stark. We love Starks – no matter how long or short their appearance is. Cregan pledges his allegiance to the Blacks as he tells Jacaerys that “the Starks do not forget their oath, my prince…” We can’t wait to see more of Cregan!
With drama and alliances unfolding so quickly in each episode of House of the Dragon Season 2, do not miss an episode or you’ll get lost! You don’t have to, thanks to PLDT Home, you can catch the series every Monday on HBO GO for only P199/month.
For unli-entertainment guaranteed, apply for PLDT Home Plans 2099 and up to enjoy 3 months of HBO GO with no additional costs and avail free installation worth P3600. For more information, visit pldthome.com/fiber.
Disney+ proudly presents “Young Woman and the Sea,” the riveting true story of Trudy Ederle, the first woman to triumphantly swim the English Channel. Premiering on the streaming platform on July 19, this inspirational drama stars the talented Daisy Ridley in a role that has captivated audiences and critics alike since its theatrical release on May 31, 2024.
A Journey of Courage and Determination
“Young Woman and the Sea” chronicles the incredible journey of Trudy Ederle, born in 1905 to immigrant parents in New York City. Overcoming the challenges posed by a patriarchal society, Ederle’s determination, bolstered by the unwavering support of her sister and dedicated trainers, led her to conquer the 21-mile swim from France to England. This monumental achievement secured her place in history and inspired generations.
Critical Acclaim and Stellar Performances
Critics have lauded the film for its heartwarming portrayal of an underdog story. Katie Walsh of the Los Angeles Times describes it as “a rousing sports biopic… a throwback to inspiring underdog stories like ‘Rudy’ but with a girl power feminist bent and a woman-against-nature theme.” Tomris Laffly from Variety praises Daisy Ridley’s performance, stating, “Ridley stuns and earns your tears in this beautifully classical movie.”
Disney’s latest heartwarming drama, “Young Woman and the Sea,” the riveting true story of Trudy Ederle, the first woman to triumphantly swim the English Channel. Premiering on the streaming platform on July 19, this inspirational drama stars the talented Daisy Ridley in a role that has captivated audiences and critics alike since its theatrical release on May 31, 2024.
A Journey of Courage and Determination
“Young Woman and the Sea” chronicles the incredible journey of Trudy Ederle, born in 1905 to immigrant parents in New York City. Overcoming the challenges posed by a patriarchal society, Ederle’s determination, bolstered by the unwavering support of her sister and dedicated trainers, led her to conquer the 21-mile swim from France to England. This monumental achievement secured her place in history and inspired generations.
Critical Acclaim and Stellar Performances
Critics have lauded the film for its heartwarming portrayal of an underdog story. Katie Walsh of the Los Angeles Times describes it as “a rousing sports biopic… a throwback to inspiring underdog stories like ‘Rudy’ but with a girl power feminist bent and a woman-against-nature theme.” Tomris Laffly from Variety praises Daisy Ridley’s performance, stating, “Ridley stuns and earns your tears in this beautifully classical movie.”
Netflix Philippines pulled out all the stops to celebrate the arrival of PULANG ARAW, the country’s biggest historical series of 2024. The Peninsula Manila Hotel became a beacon of glamour and anticipation on July 9, 2024, as a dazzling array of celebrities, press, content creators, and VIPs gathered for the series’ star-studded premiere event. All were eager to catch the first glimpse of what is touted to be a groundbreaking series.
Celebrity Insights and Historical Portrayals
Leading the charge were the captivating stars of PULANG ARAW – Barbie Forteza, Sanya Lopez, David Licauco, and Alden Richards – who commanded the spotlight with their captivating presence. The supporting cast also graced the red carpet, adding another layer of intrigue as they hinted at the intricate web of stories woven within the series. Dressed in 1940s attire, reflective of their characters’ era with impeccable style in “Pulang Araw,” they shared insights into their roles and the deep connections to Philippine history they portray.
Lead stars Barbie Forteza, Sanya Lopez, David Licauco, and Alden Richards were the cynosure of all eyes, donned in striking 1940s attire, reflecting their characters’ era with impeccable style.
Photo credit: Netflix
Alden Richards, portraying Eduardo dela Cruz, shared his deep connection with the project, reflecting on its decade-long journey from conception to screen. He shares that the project has been a long-awaited endeavor for him and the production team, “Nabanggit na po ito sa akin ng aking boss na si Ms. Annette (GMA Executive Atty. Annette Gozon-Valdes, President of GMA Films and GMA Worldwide) sampung taon na ang nakakalipas.” (“This was mentioned to me by my boss, Ms. Annette, ten years ago”). He highlighted the series’ significance in bringing forgotten historical narratives to the forefront of modern consciousness.
Barbie Forteza, embodying the vivacious Adelina dela Cruz, shared her enthusiasm for showcasing vaudeville within the series, drawing parallels between the art form and the enduring spirit of finding joy amidst adversity. “Kahit sa buhay, kahit na anong kinakaharap mong problema at paghihirap, lahat ‘yun ay kakalimutan mo, kasi the show must go on,” (“Even in life, no matter what hardships you face, you’d forget them all, because the show must go on”)
Sanya Lopez, who steps into the shoes of Teresita, elaborated on the series’ intent to educate the current generation about the sacrifices that shaped their freedoms. “Para sa akin ‘yun ‘yung katangian ng isang magiting na babae, na hindi lang noong panahon ng mga Hapon o ng digmaan, kundi sa panahon ngayon ng mga makabagong Teresita. Na patuloy lumalaban sa mga pagsubok, sa mga panga-abuso, sa pangmamaliit. Na lumalaban para sa kanilang karapatan,” (“For me, that’s the main characteristic of a brave woman, not only during that period, but even today, a time of modern-day Teresitas. They continue to fight the challenges, the abuse, and the oppression. They fight for their rights,”) She also shared her privileged experience of conversing with actual comfort women as part of the preparation for the role, which added a profound layer to her portrayal. Echoing her sentiment, Alden emphasized the importance of remembering the heroes of yesteryears, which he believes is a cornerstone of the series.
David Licauco, portraying the conflicted Hiroshi Tanaka, shared insights into his character’s dilemmas of heart versus duty, adding layers to the narrative fabric of ‘Pulang Araw’. Sanya also highlighted her character’s embodiment of courage, drawing inspiration from historical figures to deliver a performance that connects with both historical enthusiasts and casual viewers alike.
Photo credit: Netflix
Barbie and David, known collectively as ‘BarDa,’ discussed their dynamic working together again. For David, one particular scene made him realize how different Barbie is in this show, ‘yung iksena na nag-I love you ako kay Barbie, dun ako may nakitang kakaiba. Napakagaling ni Barbie Forteza bilang aktres.” (“The scene where I told Barbie I love her, I saw something different there. Barbie Forteza is a brilliant actress.”). On the other hand, Barbie not only commended him for his Japanese-speaking skills but also applauded David for the growth in his passion for acting, “Natutunan niyang mahalin ‘yung craft. (…) Ibang David Licauco po talaga ang mapapanood natin dito, and I’m just very proud of him.” (“He learned to love the craft. (…) We’ll get to see a different David Licauco here, and I’m just very proud of him.”)
Photo credit: Netflix
Behind the Scenes and Beyond
The influence of vaudeville is a significant element in ‘Pulang Araw,’ especially for the characters played by Barbie and Sanya. The actresses shared their memorable experiences preparing for these roles, highlighting the rigorous tap dance sessions they undertook before filming commenced. “Tap dance classes, bago pa man magsimula ang taping. Ang saya ng experience kasi sobrang lapit sa puso ko si Sanya.” (“Tap dance classes, even before we started filming. The experience was fun because Sanya is someone I hold close to my heart.”) Sanya was equally enthused with the experience, cherishing the moments she spent training with Barbie, “Kumakanta habang nagta-tap dance—umaarte habang nagta-tap dance. (…) Masarap sa feeling na meron kaming bagong natutunan para sa palabas na ito.” (“Singing while tap dancing—acting while tap dancing. (…) It’s a great experience to learn something new for this show.”)
Photo credit: Netflix
To conclude the event, the supporting cast composed of Sef Cadeyona, Aidan Veneracion, Neil Ryan Sese, Jay Arcilla, Ashley Ortega, Mikoy Morales, Rochelle Pangilinan-Solinap, Angelu de Leon, and Epy Quizon headed to the stage to introduce their characters and hint at their relationships with the main cast, teasing viewers with their intriguing connections and hinting at the complex interplay of relationships that viewers can expect. The event culminated with a screening of the pilot episode, leaving the audience eager for the series’ official release.
PULANG ARAW premieres first on Netflix starting Friday, July 26, 72 hours before free TV airing.
About PULANG ARAW
Pulang Araw chronicles the lives of Adelina (Forteza), Teresita (Lopez), Hiroshi (Licauco), and Eduardo (Richards) during the Japanese occupation of the Philippines. Find out how the characters navigate an intricate web of loyalty, betrayals, sacrifices, and resilience amidst the backdrop of a war ravaging the country.
PULANG ARAWis directed by Dominic Zapata and written by Suzette Doctolero.
Two big stars – Kim Ha Neul and Jung Ji Hoon (more popularly known as Rain) – are some of the biggest and most established names in Korean entertainment. Working together is definitely big news, and you can see the Disney+ produced K-Drama has the budget to celebrate this artistic collaboration. ‘Red Swan,’ based on its first two episodes, is poised as an action/romance/thriller as Kim Ha Neul plays Oh Wan Soo, the wife of a chaebol heir whose high-profile global charities has put her in the crosshairs of terrorist groups. While on an important event in Manila, she is attacked and is rescued by a highly trained, former policeman, Seo Do Yoon (Jung Ji Hoon), who ends up joining her security detail. What complicates things is that it seems Do Yoon is following a trail of the murder of his friends which leads him straight into the chaebol family that Oh Wan Soo is married into. Adding fuel to the fire, Wan Soo has had it with her adulterous husband and may be attracted to her brand-new bodyguard.
‘Red Swan,’ written by Choi Yoon Jung and directed by Park Hong-kyun, is fast-paced and glitzy. It prefers to take short cuts in character building and development and is more intent in showing off its cast and its huge budget. It relies on archetypes and tropes to help set up the characters and their place in this world while impressing upon us the high stakes world of this reality. Oh Wan Soo is an impressive woman. Her foundation, The Now Foundation, has done what appears to be immeasurable good for the world. So much so, that she’s being targeted by Isis. She is unfazed, though, but what is more surprising is the way by which her husband’s family reacts.
Her mother-in-law, as early as episode one, is already being poised to take the mantle of the drama’s main antagonist, or one of them, at the very least. She’s an abrasive woman who is fond of shouting and throwing things around. She’s the typical feisty, rich, and sinister mother-in-law who looks down on our protagonist and will definitely get in her way. Oh Wan Soo’s husband, Kim Yong-guk (Jung Gyu-Woon), doesn’t get to show much of any layers other than his dismissive affair that’s revealed by the second episode but there might be more to him than meets the eye.
The break-neck speed by which the story unfolds makes it difficult for the creative team to juggle its storylines. It awkwardly juggles between Oh Wan Soo and Seo Do Yoon, whose storylines begin very far away from each other that when the show jumps from one to the other, it doesn’t quite make sense. Do Yoon is in Manila trying to find clues to the murder of a friend, also from the police force. While searching for it in Manila, he comes across Oh Wan Soo as she is attacked in Makati and the story finally comes together.
There are a lot of issues plaguing the first two episodes of ‘Red Swan.’ The most apparent is the way by which it depicts Manila. Sure, the drone shots that establish location was taken in the city but it’s shots of a commercial space that is meant to be Makati looks either somewhere in McKinley Hill (not a place I’m familiar with) or a completely different location altogether. It doesn’t help that all the crowd extras are primarily white or East Asian looking. It doesn’t look or feel like Makati at all (though it is nice that we are depicted as such a clean, orderly place). The storyline feels rushed to try and set up this world early to try and get the two main characters together and to start the romantic storyline up and running but also amping up the feel of dread and danger. It’s quite a lot to handle and the direction and writing isn’t holding everything up in this regard.
Fortunately, the two lead stars are a completely arresting watch. Kim Ha Neul adds a certain dignity to Oh Wan Soo that makes her a fascinating character study. She’s tired of all the BS and it seems she’s lost all track of what is keeping her moving forward. When Seo Do Yoon comes into her life, she gazes into him trying to decode him and discover what he is about. It’s that look that brings about the passion in this show. Jung Ji Hoon has a gait and a posture of a leading man. He has such a strong presence that even if the scenes play out so typically like any action series I’ve seen before, his swagger hits differently that it doesn’t get boring.
Hopefully, after all the stumbling around and trying to put all the story elements into place, the show will pick up and find its rhythm and pace because its stars can’t carry the whole show solely on their shoulders for the rest of the eight episodes to follow.
My Rating:
Red Swan is now streaming on Disney+. Watch it here.
“From the very beginning, I was you. I was always a part of you,” the monster within Hyun-su (Song Kang) eerily declares in the tension-filled trailer for Sweet Home Season 3, released today. Fans are left wondering which version of Hyun-su will prevail, and to what end.
Ultimate Showdown
In the third and final season of the iconic Korean monsterization saga, humans, monsters, and neohumans prepare for the ultimate showdown. The main poster captures the clash between Hyun-su and Sang-wook (Lee Jin-wook) amid a wrecked stadium engulfed in flames. Once allies, their paths diverged in the second season and now lead to a final face-off.
Action-Packed Teaser
The trailer offers a glimpse of intense action between Hyun-su and Eun-hyeok (Lee Do-hyun) immediately after their reunion. Yi-kyung (Lee Si-young) opens her eyes again after being consumed by a monster, while Eun-yu (Go Min-si) and Chan-young (Jinyoung) desperately fight for survival. Meanwhile, Tak In-hwan (Yu Oh-seong), Dr. Lim (Oh Jung-se), Kim Yeong-hu (Kim Mu-yeol), and Kid (Kim Si-a) continue their individual journeys, each facing new battles.
Director’s Insights
Director Lee Eung-bok comments, “There is a variety of characters, so I hope viewers will root for their favorite ones as they all fight in their own ways, from the battle between Sang-wook — who has turned evil — and Hyun-su, who longs to preserve his humanity; Yi-kyung, who fights to protect Kid; and Sergeant Tak, who feels responsible for the survivors’ safety.”
Don’t Miss It
Don’t miss the thrilling conclusion to the Sweet Home series, premiering July 19, only on Netflix.
Prepare for an unforgettable ride as “My Home Hero The Movie” debuts on Disney+ this July 12. This highly anticipated film is the dramatic conclusion to the serialized adaptation of the hit manga series that has left audiences on the edge of their seats.
A Gripping Story Continues
After briefly topping Japan’s box office, “My Home Hero The Movie” returns to the gripping world of the original series. Fans will be thrilled to see their favorite characters, portrayed by the original actors, with the addition of an expanded cast.
Based on the popular Kodansha manga, the original series follows the unassuming businessman Tetsuo Tosu. In a desperate bid to protect his daughter, Tetsuo murders her abusive boyfriend and cleverly evades imprisonment. Using his extensive knowledge from mystery novels, Tetsuo navigates the dangers posed by both the police and the local gang leader, Kyoichi Majima.
A New Chapter Unfolds
Set seven years after the series finale, “My Home Hero The Movie” begins with a landslide uncovering the hidden body of the daughter’s boyfriend. This discovery provides fresh evidence for a new investigation led by none other than Tetsuo’s daughter, Detective Reika Tosu. As the police and local gangsters close in, Tetsuo must once again use his wits to stay ahead. Will he manage to evade capture once more, or will justice finally catch up with him?
Mark your calendars and get ready to stream the thrilling conclusion of this saga from July 12, exclusively on Disney+. “My Home Hero The Movie” promises to deliver suspense, intrigue, and a powerful storyline that fans won’t want to miss.
This summer, eight civilians find out in NO WAY OUT: The Roulette, a new fictional Korean action thriller premiering July 31 on Disney+. After serving 13 years for heinous crimes, Korea’s most hated man, Kim Gukho, is released on parole. Outraged by his release, a mysterious citizen offers a ₩20 billion ($14 million) bounty to anyone who can track down and kill the notorious criminal.
Targeted by desperate citizens, Kim Gukho must rely on his police protection team to survive.
Starring:
Cho Jin-woong (Signal) as police officer Baek Joongsik
Produced by Studio X+U, written by Lee Sujin (The Devil’s Deal), and directed by Choi Kook-hee (Default) and Lee Hubin, this series is set to be an electrifying ride from start to finish.
Last July 2, the cast and director of the new K-Drama produced by Disney+ ‘Red Swan’ held a press conference on the day before the first episode was released on the streaming platform. ClickTheCity was invited to watch as the cast – which includes Korean superstars Kim Ha Neul and Jung Ji-Hoon (better known as Rain) as well as Jung Gyu-woon, Seo Yi Sook, and Ki Eun Se – talked about the show and showed off their vibrant personalities.
The drama promises to be an action-packed suspense thriller with a very healthy dose of romance. Kim Ha Neul stars as Oh Wan Soo, a former world champion professional golfer who marries into a chaebol family and becomes a UN Goodwill Ambassador whose work threatens terrorist organizations and has her at their crosshairs. Jung Ji-Hoon plays a former policeman who becomes Wan Soo’s bodyguard, but he has an agenda of his own. From the first two episodes, while Wan Soo faces a threat from the outside, her biggest threat may come from her husband’s mother (Seo Yi Sook).
Photo courtesy of Disney+
Like any press conference, the moderator invites each of the cast to come up on stage for photos and then asked the two leads, Kim Ha Neul and Jung Ji-Hoon to pose together. Immediately, you can see their chemistry playing off of each other when the moderator asks them to pose as their characters, and Rain immediately imitates a security detail, complete with gesturing towards his ear as if he was wearing an earpiece. The two laugh at the gesture but are able to get serious enough for one good shot.
From the get-go, you can see how comfortable they are with each other which plays off well onscreen as the passion between the two characters are already evident as early as episode one.
On the flipside, when Seo Yi Sook joins the two on stage, they were asked to make “fatal pose” and Rain opens his arms for a hug to Seo Yi Sook, who also laughs. The irony is at play here as it seems that Seo Yi Sook may play the main villain.
Photo courtesy of Disney+
When it was time to answer questions from the press, the cast was joined by Park Hong-kyun. The first question was directed to the leads, and they were asked why they accepted to do ‘Red Swan.’ Kim Ha Neul opened up about how she had loved ‘The Bodyguard’ with Kevin Costner and Whitney Houston so it was a chance to do her own version. But what really gripped her was how strong the script was. For Jung Ji Hoon, he had always wanted to work with director Park Hong Kyun and every time a project would surface, something always came up and the project never pushed through. So when this show was offered to him, he said yes immediately.
Director Park Hong Kyun is known for his action-packed style of directing and had always wanted to work with Rain in an action-led series. He knew what Rain could do as an action star and was very happy that Rain was always giving a lot of ideas in how to do certain action scenes. The two seemed like willing collaborators to make the show more thrilling. It also gives a glimpse of Rain’s experience and creative side. Jung Ji-Hoon is a very physical actor and likes to do his own stunts. “I like to be responsible for my action sequences,” he said. What shocked Park Hong Kyun, though, was Jung Ji-Hoon’s emotional strength. He was the last person cast for the drama and he was chosen because of his experience in action but his vulnerability became the show’s hidden strength.
“My character doesn’t have a lot of lines,” Jung Ji-Hoon said. “So, I have to work a lot with just how I look and I have to act with only my eyes.” Park Hong Kyun was amazed and was not expecting this side of Jung Ji-Hoon’s range as an actor. He also shared that Rain had worked closely with their consultant on how to properly project and come off like a real bodyguard and Rain said that part of it was having to speak with a “cool tone,” which he had observed from his research. The moderator then asked him if he could try speaking with his modulated voice and the actor asked for a moment and he fixed his posture and then, with a totally new tone of voice asked the audience to please support the drama.
For Kim Ha Neul, she watched a lot of Goodwill Ambassadors and tried to capture their grace and poise. And while she golfs in her leisure time, she had to really train hard as her character “was the best in the world” and she knew she couldn’t just fake it. For Jung Gyu-woon, who plays the husband of Kim Ha Neul, he wanted to steer away from a stereotypical chaebol heir. While his character is problematic, he pushed for the character to be truly in love with Oh Wan Soo so that there would be a tortured nuance to the character. “He’s a complex character,” he said, “And I want to show him struggling that his wife, which he loves so much, has so much friction with his mother.”
Photo courtesy of Disney+
On the other hand, Ki Eun Se sees her character as a sort of comic relief. From the first two episodes, she comes off as a family friend, sometimes a nanny to On Wan Soo’s child but she has her own agenda and it’s to take Jung Gyu-woon for her own. “Her story is the one that breaks all the tension,” she says, laughing.
With the many genres that are playing out in ‘Red Swan,’ the two leads were asked what approached did they focus on the most and while Kim Ha Neul felt that her character was more focused on the threats to her life, that as an actress, she focused on the mystery and the intrigue – the suspense genre that pushes the show’s plot forward – but for Rain, he felt that he wanted to focus more on the romance aspect of the story. Because he wanted to put the relationship of Oh Wan Soo and her bodyguard at the center, he opted to say the lines as written and to avoid from doing improvisations to help Kim Ha Neul work with him for their passionate scenes.With the show’s pedigree of great talent involved and the sort of camaraderie that they projected during this press conference; ‘Red Swan’ may be a show to watch out for on Disney+.
