As the much-anticipated release date of Netflix's original series 'The Bequeathed' approaches, director Yeon Sang-ho sheds light on the intricacies of the upcoming thriller.
In an interview held at a cafe in Samcheong-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul, Yeon Sang-ho discussed his creative vision, the inspiration behind 'The Bequeathed,' and the challenges of making thought-provoking cinema.
A Tale of Family, Inheritance, and Unexpected Twists
'The Bequeathed' marks the directorial debut of Min Hong-nam, a longtime assistant director to Yeon Sang-ho on acclaimed films like 'Train to Busan,' 'Telekinesis,' and 'Peninsula.'
Yeon Sang-ho's role extended beyond planning and writing, as he aimed to create a thriller infused with a distinctly Korean flavor.
In the interview, Yeon Sang-ho revealed, "I wanted to make a thriller with a Korean flavor," and 'The Bequeathed' emerged as one of his two creative ideas.
The series revolves around the repercussions of inheriting a mountain left behind by a forgotten uncle, exploring family dynamics and unveiling long-buried secrets.
Unveiling Duality and Social Commentary
Delving into the dual nature of family disputes over inheritance, Yeon Sang-ho aimed to transcend clichés and provide a unique narrative perspective.
He shared, "I thought about a setting that could express the duality of a family in an extreme way," introducing a device in the latter half of the series that deviates from social conventions but delves into the root of the emotion of love.
Crafting Thought-Provoking Questions
The second half of 'The Bequeathed' promises a shocking twist that goes beyond mere narrative development.
Yeon Sang-ho emphasized, "I think a good work should be able to ask good questions," revealing that Kim Hyun Joo's final lines as the main character serve as both a question and a message that defines the essence of 'The Bequeathed.'
The director encourages viewers to reflect on the characters' perspectives and engage with the deeper meaning of the series.
Yeon Sang-ho's Artistic Philosophy
Known for his directorial success with 'Train to Busan' and other notable works, Yeon Sang-ho expressed humility and flexibility in his approach to filmmaking.
He admitted, "I don't have the confidence to continue making good works," highlighting the importance of understanding the reasons behind a work's success or failure.
Closing the interview, Yeon Sang-ho shared his desire for a flexible life without set schedules, emphasizing the need for time to move both body and mind.
As audiences eagerly await the release of 'The Bequeathed' on Netflix on the 19th, the series promises to be a captivating exploration of family, suspense, and thought-provoking storytelling.
KDramaStars owns this article.
Written by Michelle Williams