"Wandering Moon" Director Lee Sang Il: The many decisions that are required every day, what do you ultimately rely on? [Director's Interview Vol.206]

Hong Kyung Pyo has animal-like and sharp senses.

Q: Hong Kyung-pyo, the director of photography for this movie, said that director Bong Joon-ho told him that ``the passionate types would be a good match for each other,'' but what kind of things did he talk about on set? Were you able to proceed?

Lee: Well, I think the expression was more like "high temperature" than "passionate type" (lol). This time, the preparation period for shooting with Mr. Hong was very short, so Mr. Hong was very attentive so as not to miss out on what would happen on set or what the actors would bring out. I thoroughly search for places where I can put the camera into what is being created in front of my eyes. I don't get the impression that it just fits within the angle of view. This time, we started without any storyboards, so we spent the most time discussing finding the first cut of that scene.

Also, for example, if we're filming outside and the wind blows, we definitely take advantage of it. When the wind blows, the clothes flutter and the way they look changes. I say, ``If the wind blows, I'll shoot here,'' and decide on the shooting location, taking into account natural phenomena. Considering that the tree behind the person was shaking, I said, ``That's why this cut is in this position!'' Well, the camera position may change once the wind subsides (lol).

In addition to the acting, light, shadow, and the movement of the background are all utilized to portray the characters' inner feelings. His senses are very animal-like and sharp. Yet overwhelming technical ability backed by tremendous experience. I was in awe of everything.

“Wandering Moon” (c) 2022 “Wandering Moon” Production Committee

Q: Were the storyboards drawn in advance for director Lee's other films?

Lee: Yes. To some extent, I simulated it in my head before going to the scene. I had roughly half of the blueprints finalized before filming, and the rest was built on-site as I worked on the play.

Q: This time, everything was decided on-site. That means all preparations are on standby so that you can shoot from any angle.

Lee: That's right. I think it was really difficult for the art department, lighting department, and other departments.

What we ultimately rely on is our “feelings”