Actor Yoo Ah-in is returning to the screen with the film "Vampire," breaking a hiatus of about three years. This comes about a year and a half after he suspended his activities following a guilty verdict for habitual illegal drug use.
Investment and distribution company NEW announced on the morning of the 18th that "Vampire" has completed its casting lineup and will begin full-scale filming in August.
"Vampire" is a mystery occult film that tells the story of an unidentified hitman who takes on a request from a clergyman and pursues an unidentifiable cult group. It is the new work of director Jang Jae-hyun, who has presented unrivaled storytelling and solid directing skills in every project, including "Exhuma," "Svaha: The Sixth Finger," and "The Priests."
The recent script reading session was attended by the key figures who will lead "Vampire," including director Jang Jae-hyun, Yoo Ah-in, Lee Sung-min, Lee Jun-hyuk, Doi, Yoon Kyung-ho, and Choi Hyun-wook.
Yoo Ah-in plays a hitman who chases after the cult group. He is a bold character who remains unfazed in any situation, and he is set to portray the process of gradually changing as he encounters unidentified beings.
Previously, Yoo Ah-in was brought to trial on charges including habitual use of medical propofol and smoking marijuana, and was sentenced to one year in prison with two years of probation. His probation period runs until July 2027.
Yoo Ah-in, who had been drawing attention since the casting stage, faces another test amidst the critical gazes of the public. Although he is an actor whose acting skills are undisputed, he must overcome the negative public sentiment surrounding his somewhat early return through his acting and passion.
Lee Sung-min transforms into a clergyman who broke taboos for his beliefs. Based on his solid acting foundation, he anchors the center of the film by deeply portraying a character agonizing between responsibility and guilt.
Lee Jun-hyuk delivers a striking transformation as a cult member who yearns for eternal life. He is raising expectations to overwhelm the screen with his sharp aura as a mysterious character.
Rookie Doi has been selected for the role of the veiled girl. Having been chosen after a fierce audition, she is set to radiate fresh energy and leave a strong impression. Yoon Kyung-ho plays the smuggling broker who ends up accompanying the cult. Yoon Kyung-ho will add vitality to the film with his signature realistic acting.
Choi Hyun-wook joins as a U.S. military second lieutenant with a suspicious purpose. He is expected to add intense tension to the film through dimensional acting that meticulously expresses even the finest emotions.
Director Jang Jae-hyun's new film "Vampire," which has confirmed its main casting and entered full-scale preparation for filming, is scheduled for theatrical release in 2028.
(SBS Entertainment News | Kim Ji-hye)