Park Chan-wook on His Film Legacy
- JEONJU, South Korea (May 4, 2025) — Director Park Chan-wook revisited his groundbreaking short film, "Blue Manjang," during the 26th Jeonju International Film Festival.The director participated in a...
- Park described "Blue Manjang" as a source of immense pride,highlighting its unique production.
- The film tells the story of a fisherman and a shaman, played by Lee Jung-hyun, attempting to summon his soul.
Park chan-wook Reflects on Smartphone Film ‘Blue Manjang’ at Jeonju Film Fest
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JEONJU, South Korea (May 4, 2025) — Director Park Chan-wook revisited his groundbreaking short film, “Blue Manjang,” during the 26th Jeonju International Film Festival.The director participated in a ‘J Special Class’ event alongside actress Lee Jung-hyun and his brother, artist Park Chan-kyung, to discuss the film’s legacy.
‘Blue Manjang’: A Turning Point
Park described “Blue Manjang” as a source of immense pride,highlighting its unique production. The 2011 film, co-directed with his brother, holds the distinction of being the world’s first film shot entirely with smartphones. Initially commissioned by KT to promote the iPhone 4, the project exceeded expectations, earning a short Golden Bear at the 61st berlin International Film festival.
The film tells the story of a fisherman and a shaman, played by Lee Jung-hyun, attempting to summon his soul. “Beyond the main director, multiple staff members filmed from various angles,” Park noted. “I was incredibly grateful for every second of usable footage.”
Lee Jung-hyun’s Return to the Screen
For Lee Jung-hyun, “Blue Manjang” marked a meaningful resurgence in her acting career. After debuting as a singer in 1999 and having worked as a child actor, she stated that she had struggled to find compelling roles. Park’s offer brought her back to the screen after an 11-year hiatus.
“I am thankful for this precious work that brought me back when I felt forgotten in the film industry,” lee Jung-hyun said during the event.
Casting Challenges
Park revealed initial casting plans involved actress Moonsori for the role of the shaman.However, moonsori had to withdraw just hours before filming commenced, prompting a frantic search for a replacement.
“I envisioned a scene with the shaman and the fisherman struggling in the mud. I needed someone who could embody the role through both acting and singing,” Park explained.
## Park Chan-wook on “Blue Manjang”: A Smartphone film’s Legacy
### what is “Blue Manjang”?
“Blue Manjang” is a short film directed by park Chan-wook, in collaboration with his brother, Park Chan-kyung. It’s notable for being the world’s first film entirely shot with smartphones.
### Why is “Blue Manjang” importent?
“Blue Manjang” is significant for its innovative use of smartphones in filmmaking. as Park Chan-wook stated, the film was a source of “immense pride” because it demonstrated the potential of mobile technology in the art of cinema. The film earned a short Golden Bear at the 61st Berlin International Film Festival, exceeding initial expectations.
### When was “Blue Manjang” released?
“Blue Manjang” was released in 2011.
### What was the Jeonju International Film Festival event about?
At the 26th Jeonju International Film Festival (May 4,2025),Park Chan-wook,along with actress Lee Jung-hyun and his brother Park Chan-kyung,participated in a “J Special Class” to discuss the legacy of “Blue Manjang.”
### What is the story of “Blue Manjang”?
The film tells the story of a fisherman and a shaman attempting to summon the fisherman’s soul.
### Who are the main actors in “Blue Manjang”?
The main actor in “Blue Manjang” is Lee Jung-hyun, who plays the shaman.
### How did “Blue Manjang” impact Lee Jung-hyun’s career?
for Lee Jung-hyun, ”Blue Manjang” marked a significant return to acting after an 11-year hiatus. She described it as a “precious work” that brought her back to the film industry.
### What were the casting challenges for the film?
Initial casting plans involved actress Moonsori for the role of the shaman. However, moonsori had to withdraw just hours before filming commenced, creating a frantic search for a replacement. Park Chan-wook noted he needed someone who could express the role through both acting and singing.
### What was the original purpose of “Blue Manjang”?
the film was initially commissioned by KT to promote the iPhone 4.
### What filming techniques were used in “Blue Manjang”?
Besides the main director, multiple staff members filmed from various angles, showcasing a collaborative approach to smartphone filmmaking.
### Summarizing “Blue Manjang” Key Facts
Here’s a speedy summary of the film’s essential details:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Director(s) | Park Chan-wook and Park Chan-kyung |
| Year of Release | 2011 |
| Primary Actors | Lee Jung-hyun |
| Filmed With | Smartphones (iPhone 4 specifically) |