Ryu Seung-ryong, Ha Ji-won fight to save a daughter in 'Portrait of a Family'

Ryu Seung-ryong and Ha Ji-won star in Portrait of a Family, a family drama set for release in South Korea on September 2. The film, directed by Lee Ji-won, follows a once-celebrated couple, Jung-gu and Nam-mi, who must confront a traumatic event involving their daughter Dong-ju, played by Kim Si-ah. The movie, originally titled Bigwang, draws inspiration from a card in the traditional Korean game hwatu, symbolizing how individuals with less perceived value can become crucial when united with others. Lee Ji-won, who gained recognition with her 2018 film Miss Baek, previously explored themes of resilience and familial bonds. Portrait of a Family continues this narrative, focusing on a family's struggle to protect their daughter amid adversity. The film’s production faced delays due to the global pandemic, with shooting concluding in 2021 but the release postponed until now. This extended delay placed the film in a category known as "warehouse films," referring to movies held back due to logistical challenges during the pandemic. Ryu Seung-ryong, a prominent figure in Korean cinema, initially hesitated to join the project. However, Lee convinced him with a heartfelt handwritten letter. Ryu expressed interest in the role of Jung-gu, a character whose primary motivation is protecting his daughter despite his rough exterior. He noted that this portrayal offers a unique perspective on fatherhood, distinct from his previous roles in blockbuster films such as Miracle in Cell No. 7 and Extreme Job. Ha Ji-won, returning to the big screen after a six-year hiatus, plays Nam-mi, a former actress navigating personal struggles. Her involvement in the film marks a significant return to acting, following her recent focus on content creation through a YouTube channel. Ha described the experience of filming as emotionally challenging, particularly portraying a character enduring rather than overcoming life's hardships. Despite the lengthy wait for the film's release, she believes the story remains relevant and resonant. Kim Si-ah, who made her debut in Miss Baek, reprises her role as Dong-ju, the central figure in the family's turmoil. She described the filming process as intense, emphasizing the emotional weight of the scenes. However, she credited director Lee Ji-won for providing stability and guidance throughout the production, allowing her to focus solely on delivering a compelling performance. The film's title, Bigwang, reflects the theme of unity and collective strength, mirroring the card's significance in the game hwatu. Director Lee emphasized the importance of collaboration, stating that individual contributions, while seemingly minor, can collectively lead to substantial outcomes. This philosophy underpins the narrative of Portrait of a Family, highlighting the resilience of families facing adversity together. The release date of September 2 marks a culmination of efforts by the cast and crew, who navigated the challenges posed by the pandemic. As the film prepares to debut in Korean theaters, anticipation builds around its exploration of familial bonds and the complexities of human relationships. The film promises to deliver a poignant narrative that resonates with audiences seeking stories of perseverance and unity.