Veteran actor Sul Kyung-gu shared insights on his experience playing Nobody in the Netflix film “Good News.” Sul Good News highlights his struggle with the abstract role, which pushed him beyond conventional acting. He emphasized his trust in director Byun Sung-hyun, marking their fourth collaboration.
During a Seoul interview, Sul explained that Nobody was a unique, detached character requiring exaggerated expressions. He noted that the role occasionally involved directly addressing the camera, which felt awkward. Sul said Byun encouraged him to let the character “float” and be more dramatic than other roles, creating a striking visual presence.
Released on October 17, “Good News” is a black comedy-drama inspired by the 1970 Yodogo hijacking. The story reimagines the historical hijacking by the Japanese Red Army Faction and the suspicious operations surrounding the plane. Sul stars as Nobody, an enigmatic troubleshooter, alongside Hong Kyung and Ryoo Seung-bum.
Sul admitted concerns about portraying a character who does not blend in. Nevertheless, he trusted Byun’s vision, citing their decade-long partnership, which includes “The Merciless” (2017), “Kingmaker” (2022), and “Kill Boksoon” (2023). He explained that Byun approaches filmmaking like orchestrating a symphony, knowing when each character should appear.
The actor also discussed his physical transformation for Nobody. Byun crafted the character to appear disheveled, using moles, worn shoes, and a hat to make Nobody easily dismissed by others. Sul mentioned that he initially lost more weight than needed, but the director adjusted the appearance to enhance the character’s strangeness.
Reuniting with Ryoo Seung-bum after nearly 15 years since “No Mercy” (2010), Sul noted a shift in his co-star’s demeanor. He observed that Ryoo had broadened his outlook and learned to accept things beyond his personal preferences.
Sul encouraged audiences to approach the film lightly, despite its tragic historical roots. He researched the Yodogo incident extensively but advised viewers not to overthink its true story background. Sul Good News emphasized entertainment while acknowledging historical context, hoping audiences enjoy the film without prior assumptions.
The film’s premiere at the Toronto and Busan International Film Festivals earlier this year showcased Korea’s evolving storytelling style, blending historical events with dark comedy. Sul Good News highlights the actor’s dedication, the director’s vision, and the collaborative process that brought this unconventional story to life.
