Jo Jung-suk Transforms into Pretty Woman in Film 'Pilot'

Jo Jung-suk Transforms into Pretty Woman in Film 'Pilot'

▲ Actor Jo Jung-suk poses for photos at the press conference for upcoming film "Pilot" held in Seoul on June 26, 2024. (Yonhap)

SEOUL, June 26 (Yonhap) -- Actor Jo Jung-suk, who stars in the upcoming film "Pilot" where he takes on the role of a cross-dressing man, shared his experience during a press conference held at Lotte Cinema in Konkuk University, Seoul, on the 26th.

He humorously described the elaborate process involved in his transformation.

"All the staff worked together to transform me. It was almost like a three-step transformation. First, putting on the clothes, second, doing the makeup, and finally, wearing the wig. It was complete," Jo explained with a laugh.

"Pilot," set to release on July 31, is a comedy about a pilot named Han Jung-woo (played by Jo Jung-suk), who loses his job and then gets re-employed as a co-pilot under his sister's name. Jo, in a striking transformation, plays the role of female pilot Han Jung-mi, showcasing his talent for comedy. To achieve a more feminine look, Jo lost 7kg and received acupuncture and massages.

When asked if he ever thought he looked pretty after his transformation, Jo admitted, "There were two instances where I thought so. One was when I saw myself with wet hair as Jung-mi, and I thought, 'What is this?'"

Director Kim Han-gyeol praised Jo Jung-suk, saying, "Even with a novel story, the most crucial element is the actor who can bring it to life. When Jo Jung-suk confirmed his appearance, I felt like I had an army on my side."

"Jo is a prepared actor with experience in playing a transgender character in the musical 'Hedwig,'" the director added.

The lead cast for upcoming film "Pilot" pose for photos at the film's press conference held in Seoul on June 26, 2024. (Yonhap)

▲ The lead cast for upcoming film "Pilot" pose for photos at the film's press conference held in Seoul on June 26, 2024. (Yonhap)

Jo Jung-suk is no stranger to comedy, having drawn over 9.42 million viewers with his lead role in "Exit" (2019). His comedic performances in films like "Architecture 101" (2012) and "The Face Reader" (2013) continue to be popular online as memes.

Regarding audience expectations, Jo confessed, "There's always a sense of burden. With comedies like 'Pilot,' the pressure is even greater, but I consider it my personal challenge and worked hard to overcome it."

Jo prepared for his role by watching "Mrs. Doubtfire" (1994), where Robin Williams plays a middle-aged female housekeeper. He emphasized that the film's comedy would not feel exaggerated or mock the act of cross-dressing but instead deliver genuine humor.

Although Jo Jung-suk plays a central role, the ensemble cast also adds energy to the film. Han Sun-hwa plays the role of Jung-mi's sister, aiding her brother in his transformation. Han, known for her charming and comedic presence in dramas like "Work Later, Drink Now" and the film "Sweet & Sour: 7510," praised Jo's talent, saying, "Watching Jo felt like seeing a genius. After the first shoot, I had a 'reality check' moment and thought about how I could make my performance more fun."

Lee Joo-myung plays the confident pilot Yoon Seul-gi, a steadfast character and Jung-mi's colleague. Despite being her debut film, Lee expressed excitement about the role and her determination to perform well.

Shin Seung-ho takes on the role of Seo Hyun-seok, Jung-woo's junior and Jung-mi's colleague. "I was eager to do comedy, so 'Pilot' was a grateful opportunity for me," he said.

"Pilot" promises a mix of humor, heart, and standout performances from its talented cast when it hits theaters next month.

The lead cast for upcoming film "Pilot" pose for photos at the film's press conference held in Seoul on June 26, 2024. (Yonhap)

▲ The lead cast for upcoming film "Pilot" pose for photos at the film's press conference held in Seoul on June 26, 2024. (Yonhap)