Late Lee Sun Kyun's final film 'Escape' unveils

On the 8th, a press conference and media screening for “Escape” were held at CGV Yongsan I’Park Mall in Seoul. Director Kim Tae-gon, along with actors Ju Ji-hoon, Kim Hee-won, Park Hee-bon, and Kim Soo-an, attended the event.

“Escape” features a story where a chain collision occurs in thick fog, and survivors struggle to escape from uncontrollable military experiment dogs on the verge of a bridge collapse. This film marks Lee Sun-kyun’s final appearance. He plays Jeong-won, an administrative officer trapped on the brink of a collapsing bridge. Director Kim shared his thoughts: “I wish Sun-kyun could be here. From the preparation stage to the set, he understood the devices and space on the bridge. We worked together to refine the movements and emotions of the characters, constantly discussing each element to shape the overall film.”

Ju Ji-hoon plays Jo-bak, a tow truck driver with a second job near the bridge. He said, “The fast-paced narrative and relatable characters combined with thrilling elements drew me in. My character, with a functional role within the film, was fun to portray.” Ju Ji-hoon also experimented with a long-haired, rough look, adding, “I enjoy exploring different character styles, thanks to directors who see a broad range of potential in me.”

Kim Hee-won portrays Dr. Yang, the lead researcher behind Project Silence. He said, “The story felt realistic, and being the catalyst for the events made it intriguing.”

Park Hee-bon plays Mi-ran, the manager and sister of professional golfer Yoo-ra (played by Park Joo-hyun). She shared, “I was curious about how the disaster would be visualized and looked forward to the challenge.”

Kim Soo-an plays Kyung-min, Jeong-won’s rebellious teenage daughter, who lost her mother two years prior. She expressed her excitement about the script and the courage shown by her character.

To recreate the accident on Korea’s longest bridge, over 300 vehicles were used for the massive collision scene. Ju Ji-hoon was amazed by the scale, saying, “The set felt like a real location, helping us focus naturally.” Kim Hee-won and Park Hee-bon echoed this sentiment, highlighting the set’s realism and immersive atmosphere.

Director Kim, known for his imaginative and character-driven films, aimed to create a unique disaster genre movie. “Escape” was screened at the Midnight Screening section of the 76th Cannes Film Festival last year. Kim mentioned, “Screening at Cannes was an honor. We refined the film further to enhance its intensity and emotional balance.”

The cast invited audiences to enjoy the film, with Kim Hee-won urging, “Please enjoy this fun and exciting movie this summer.” Ju Ji-hoon added, “We hope it provides tension and entertainment.”

“Escape” will be released on July 12.