Anticipation runs high as Parasyte: The Grey gears up for its Netflix debut on Friday, May 4th, 2024. With Jeon So Nee and Koo Kyo Hwan leading the cast, this Korean drama promises a thrilling adaptation of Hitoshi Iwaaki’s manga, Parasyte.
In a recent press conference held on March 26, 2024, the cast of Parasyte: The Grey shared their candid experiences from behind the scenes. From grappling with green screens to executing intricate action sequences, the actors shed light on the myriad challenges encountered during production.
1. The Complex World of Visual Effects in Parasyte: The Grey
Parasyte: The Grey (2024) delves into a world where parasitic creatures infiltrate South Korea, preying on human brains. Given its fantastical premise, the series heavily relies on visual effects (VFX) to transport viewers into its dark universe.
Director Yeon Sang Ho aptly describes the genre as “body snatcher,” where ordinary individuals undergo grotesque transformations. However, crafting these visuals posed a significant hurdle, particularly in designing distinct and realistic facial features for the creatures.
Renowned for his work on Train to Busan (2016), Director Yeon aimed for unparalleled realism in the monster designs, amplifying the show’s horror quotient.
2. Director Yeon’s Unique Approach to Guiding Actors
Director Yeon’s background as an animator proved invaluable in directing the cast to embody their parasitic personas. His hands-on method, often demonstrating movements himself, facilitated a deeper understanding of character dynamics among the actors.
Jeon So Nee, essaying the roles of Jung Su In and Heidi, lauded Director Yeon’s ability to convey the nuances of parasitic behavior. Leveraging his animation expertise, he provided insightful guidance, enabling the cast to deliver nuanced performances.
3. Navigating the Challenges of Green Screen Acting
Acting against green screens demanded exceptional imagination and coordination from the cast. Jeon So Nee, in particular, grappled with envisioning her actions during combat scenes with CGI adversaries.
Kwon Hae Hyo, portraying Cheol Min, lightened the mood by jesting about the strain on So Nee and Director Yeon’s neck muscles due to constant motion.
Moreover, So Nee undertook the challenge of modulating her voice tones for her dual roles, adding depth to her portrayal.
4. Koo Kyo Hwan’s Insights on Ensuring Safety in Action Scenes
Unlike So Nee, Koo Kyo Hwan immersed himself in numerous live-action sequences as Seol Gang Woo. He emphasized the imperative of mitigating fatigue and prioritizing safety during physically demanding stunts.
Koo Kyo Hwan underscored the significance of maintaining optimal energy levels and adhering to proper nutrition while executing intense action sequences.
5. Lee Jung Hyun’s Remarkable Dedication Post-Pregnancy
Lee Jung Hyun, essaying the role of Choi Joon Kyung, shared her arduous journey of filming action sequences a mere three months postpartum.
Undeterred by the physical toll, Lee Jung Hyun exhibited unwavering commitment, engaging in tailored exercises to regain strength. Additionally, she underwent rigorous training with the stunt team to execute dynamic action sequences convincingly.
The cast’s unwavering dedication amidst formidable challenges warrants commendation. Viewers can anticipate witnessing their labor of love come to fruition when Parasyte: The Grey premieres on Netflix.
As fans eagerly await the series’ release, the insights shared by the cast offer a glimpse into the intricate tapestry of creativity and perseverance woven behind the scenes of Parasyte: The Grey.