Hoyeon Jung, the talented model-turned-actress, has recently opened up about the challenges she faced during the filming of her latest science-fiction thriller, *Hope*, which premiered at the prestigious Cannes Film Festival. The film has garnered attention for its gripping storyline that revolves around a group attempting to track down a mysterious creature wreaking havoc in a quaint South Korean village.
At 32, Hoyeon finds herself transitioning into an action-oriented role, a significant shift from her previous performances. Having spent six months rigorously training for this part, she immersed herself in various disciplines including firearm handling, driving, and physical conditioning. Despite the extensive preparation, Hoyeon candidly admits she often felt overwhelmed by the demanding nature of the training and the subsequent filming.
In an interview with *People*, Hoyeon reflected on her most daunting challenge: the driving sequences. She explained, “I initially held an automatic licence, but I had to learn how to drive a manual vehicle, which included mastering techniques like drifting.” Even though she managed to acquire her manual licence in a single attempt, the complexities of performing stunts while maintaining her character added layers of anxiety to the experience.
Fortunately, Hoyeon received invaluable support from her co-star, Academy Award-winner Alicia Vikander. “Alicia told me to concentrate on the excitement of trying something new, rather than succumbing to anxiety and fear,” she shared. This advice helped Hoyeon shift her focus towards the thrill of performing, allowing her to negotiate her fears with more confidence. “I tried to embody that excitement as I tackled my role,” she noted.
Hoyeon’s journey into the world of acting began with modelling, a career she embarked on in 2010 after competing on *Korea’s Next Top Model*. Her work with Louis Vuitton as a global ambassador further solidified her presence in the fashion industry. However, it was her breakout role in the Netflix series *Squid Game* as Kang Sae-byeok that brought her into the global spotlight, earning her an Emmy nomination and establishing her as a formidable talent in acting.
In *Hope*, Hoyeon portrays a police officer, a role she believes benefitted from her previous modelling experience. She mentioned, “The physicality involved in modelling allowed me to understand my body’s movement better, which made it easier for me to engage in the action sequences.” This crossover of skills highlighted how the world of fashion and film can intertwine in unexpected ways.
The film’s plot unfolds in the deceptively serene setting of Hope Harbor, where police chief Bum-seok and officer Sung-ae lead a team to confront the chaos caused by an enigmatic creature. As they delve deeper into the investigation, a band of local hunters, including a character named Sung-ki, take it upon themselves to track the beast, only to find themselves in peril. The narrative promises unforeseen twists, as it explores the complexities of human conflict against a backdrop of cosmic calamity.
Directed by Na Hong-Jin, *Hope* boasts a talented cast that includes notable names such as Hwang Junh-Min, Zo In-Sung, Taylor Russell, and Michael Fassbender. Following its world premiere at Cannes, the film has been well-received in South Korea and began its release in the United States on September 9 through Neon.
As the film is now playing in cinemas, Hoyeon’s seamless transition from model to action actress is indicative of her versatility and dedication. Her ability to draw from her modelling background while confronting the challenges of more strenuous roles marks her as a rising star in the film industry.
With a blend of gripping storytelling and Hoyeon’s captivating performance, *Hope* is positioned to resonate with audiences seeking both thrills and an exploration of deeper themes. The actress’s journey continues to unfold as she embraces new challenges and opportunities within the realm of acting.