Director Yoon Sung-hyun is confident that his new zombie drama, Newtopia, will captivate international audiences, particularly those who enjoy a mix of horror and humor in the genre. Drawing inspiration from classic zombie films of the 1980s, the eight-part series blends suspense, action, and comedy in a unique way. Set to premiere on Coupang Play in Korea and stream globally via Amazon Prime Video, the show introduces a fresh perspective on the well-loved zombie narrative.
The story follows Lee Jae-yoon, played by Park Jeong-min, a soldier navigating a zombie-infested Seoul in search of his girlfriend, Kang Young-joo, portrayed by Jisoo of Blackpink. Yoon believes the series has elements that will appeal to fans of traditional zombie films, including grotesque and slow-moving undead creatures reminiscent of classic horror movies. The show also features intense action sequences and character-driven storytelling, making it an exciting addition to the genre.
Jisoo’s performance is a highlight of the series, with Yoon expressing his gratitude for her dedication to the role. He praised her ability to bring humor and emotional depth to Young-joo, emphasizing that her presence was crucial to completing the project. The actress tackled physically demanding action scenes with ease, further proving her versatility as a performer.
Coincidentally, the series features dramatic events such as a plane crash and a government declaration of martial law, elements that unexpectedly mirrored real-life occurrences in Korea after filming had already wrapped. Yoon was surprised by these parallels but remained committed to preserving the integrity of the original script. He emphasized that these scenes serve as the foundation of the story and contribute to its realism.
Beyond the action and horror, Yoon hopes viewers will appreciate the unpredictability of the characters’ choices throughout the series. He believes the characters’ decisions and their evolving dynamics will keep audiences engaged, adding an element of freshness to the storyline. The director also pointed out that the portrayal of zombies in Newtopia is deliberately nostalgic, paying homage to the grotesque, slow-moving undead seen in classic horror films of the 1970s and 1980s.
With its unique blend of humor, suspense, and action, Newtopia aims to offer a thrilling yet entertaining experience for both Korean and international viewers. As anticipation builds for its release, the series promises to be a standout addition to the growing list of Korean dramas that have gained global recognition.
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