The hit film “Exhuma” reveals an insightful interview with lead actor Lee Do Hyun. The interview, released by the production team on March 6, showcases behind-the-scenes footage filmed before Lee Do Hyun’s military enlistment.
“Exhuma” delves into the occult mystery genre, following two exorcists—a mortician played by Yoo Hae Jin and a feng shui master portrayed by Choi Min Sik.
They relocate enigmatic graves for a substantial fee. Lee Do Hyun takes on the role of Bong Gil, a novice shaman saved by Hwa Rim (Kim Go Eun) from an illness that befalls those destined to become shamans.
Having made a name for himself in various dramas like “Prison Playbook,” “Youth of May,” “The Good Bad Mother,” “The Glory,” and “Sweet Home,” Lee Do Hyun marks his cinematic debut with “Exhuma.”
Reflecting on this significant milestone, the actor shares, “It was a massive challenge and a bit daunting as I had never filmed a movie before. However, the director and senior actors provided excellent guidance, balancing out my fears. I’m both excited and curious about how the project will turn out.”
Lee Do Hyun discloses the details behind his striking transformation for the film. He says, “The director wanted Bong Gil to leave a strong first impression, suggesting unique hairstyles, wigs, and covered tattoos. I readily agreed, thinking this might be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.”
Discussing the scene where his character, Bong Gil, gets possessed by the spirit of a Japanese samurai, Lee Do Hyun shares, “I sought inspiration from the director’s previous project, ‘The Priests.’
Park So Dam played a possession scene, and I studied it by replaying that segment many times. Additionally, I dedicated time to ensure my Japanese lines were fluent, avoiding any awkwardness.”
Expressing his thoughts on working with esteemed senior actors Choi Min Sik, Yoo Hae Jin, and Kim Go Eun, Lee Do Hyun says, “My priority was to stick to the basics. I trusted my seniors to guide me well, aiming not to be a burden. It was an honour to meet and converse with these senior actors I’ve long admired beyond our professional collaboration.”
“Exhuma,” released on February 22, rapidly surpassed 6 million moviegoers in just 11 days. This achievement outpaced the 2022 blockbuster “The Roundup” by a day and the 2023 hit “12.12: The Day” by a week.