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The prequel to the 2015 crime thriller "Inside Men," titled "Inside Men: The Birth of Villains," is confirmed for production, generating significant buzz in Korea. After 11 years, this project, initially conceived as a drama series, has evolved into a three-part film series. The core reason for the excitement stems from its promise to explore the origins of the "villains" and the vast power cartel approximately 30 years before the events of the original movie.
Production company Hive Media Corp. has officially announced the cast, including Ha Jung-woo, Ahn Bo-hyun, Park Hae-joon, and Jung Sung-il. Ha Jung-woo is set to portray the younger Lee Kang-hee, originally played by Baek Yoon-sik, while Ahn Bo-hyun will take on the role of the younger Ahn Sang-gu, originally portrayed by Lee Byung-hun. The film is set in the late 1980s, delving into how the cartel of media, capital, and power first formed. Parts one and two are scheduled for simultaneous filming this year, with part three slated for next year.
Local bloggers express high anticipation for the casting, particularly for Ahn Bo-hyun's interpretation of Ahn Sang-gu and Ha Jung-woo's portrayal of Lee Kang-hee. They note the challenge of filling such iconic roles and anticipate new, distinct performances rather than mere imitations of the original actors. Industry insiders have described the casting as "groundbreaking," highlighting the excitement surrounding the return of this "legendary" film and its potential to reveal the foundational roots of the powerful cartel.
