The Anticipated Release of 'All-Round Reader' Unveiled at Press Screening

The film 'All-Round Reader' (전지적 독자 시점) has finally been revealed to audiences. On July 15, a press screening took place at the COEX Megabox in Seoul, attended by lead actors Ahn Hyo-seop (안효섭), Lee Min-ho (이민호), Chae Soo-bin (채수빈), Nana (나나), Shin Seung-ho (신승호), and director Kim Byeong-woo (김병우).

Based on a popular web novel that has been serialized for over a decade, 'All-Round Reader' tells the story of Kim Dok-ja (Ahn Hyo-seop), the sole reader of a novel titled 'Three Ways to Survive in a Ruined World.' On the day the novel concludes, its world becomes reality, and Kim Dok-ja must team up with the protagonist Yoo Jung-hyuk (Lee Min-ho) and others to survive in a post-apocalyptic setting. The film, which has a production budget of approximately 30 billion KRW, is a highly anticipated adaptation that follows the success of its webtoon version.

The film features a star-studded cast, including global K-pop sensation BLACKPINK's Jisoo (지수). Director Kim Byeong-woo, known for his work on 'The Terror Live' (2013) and 'PMC: The Bunker' (2018), returns with this project after a seven-year hiatus, produced by Realize Pictures, the company behind the hit 'Along with the Gods' series.

Reflecting on the press screening, director Kim expressed, "The moment has finally come. It’s the scariest and most daunting part of the filmmaking process." He noted that while original fans are eagerly awaiting the film, he also aimed to make it enjoyable for those unfamiliar with the source material. "I showed the script to people who hadn’t read the original and carefully checked their reactions. I wanted to ensure it could be enjoyed regardless of prior knowledge of the novel," he explained.

Kim emphasized the importance of the theme of unity in the story, stating, "The character Kim Dok-ja doesn’t just use his power for himself; he fights for everyone. This message resonated with me, and I aimed to highlight it in the film."

Ahn Hyo-seop portrays Kim Dok-ja, who is a contract employee at a game company and the only reader of the novel. He will showcase the character's transformation from an ordinary person to a stronger individual as the story unfolds. This marks Ahn's film debut after ten years in the industry.

Lee Min-ho plays Yoo Jung-hyuk, the novel's protagonist, who possesses overwhelming skills and the ability to restart from the beginning upon death, making him a formidable character. This film marks Lee's return to the big screen after a decade since 'Gangnam 1970.'

Other cast members include Chae Soo-bin as Yoo Sang-ah, who skillfully uses thread; Shin Seung-ho as Lee Hyun-seong, a former soldier; Nana as Jung Hee-won, who fights for justice; and BLACKPINK's Jisoo as high school student Lee Ji-hye, who looks up to Yoo Jung-hyuk.

Given its fantasy genre, the film features extensive CGI and VFX work. Lee Min-ho noted, "I think there will be more opportunities to act in front of a blue screen, which means imagination and creativity will be crucial for actors. This project has encouraged me to think more creatively, even if I usually don’t indulge in wild fantasies."

Ahn Hyo-seop shared his excitement, saying, "It was incredibly fun. When else would I get to enter a dragon's belly and fly around saving my friends? Seeing what I imagined come to life on screen was exhilarating."

Nana expressed her initial concerns about acting in front of a blue screen, stating, "I had never done it before, so I wondered if I could focus and express genuine emotions. However, once on set, everything was in place, and I was able to act freely, adding movements I had practiced. The director communicated everything clearly, which made the process smooth."

Despite some fans expressing concerns about whether the film could capture the essence of the original story, the initial reception from the press screening has been overwhelmingly positive.

Ahn Hyo-seop remarked, "When I first read the script, I didn’t realize how significant the original IP was. I found the script itself captivating. As a lover of films, I was excited about the adaptation. However, with high expectations comes pressure, which can lead to negative influences. I focused on being true to the script and giving my best on set. I hope both fans of the original and newcomers enjoy the film."

Director Kim Byeong-woo acknowledged the challenges of adapting a well-known source material, stating, "While it has its advantages, it also brings pressure. My goal was to design the film so that it could be enjoyed by everyone, regardless of their familiarity with the original. I want viewers to sit back and enjoy the ride without any burdens."

In conclusion, the director mentioned that the possibility of a sequel depends on the film's reception in theaters, expressing a sense of urgency for support. 'All-Round Reader' is set to hit theaters on July 23.