Released globally on the 17th, the Netflix original film 'Good News' is creating a buzz, especially with the spotlight on actor Hong Kyung and Japan’s rising star Sho Kasamatsu.
Following the film's release, Sho Kasamatsu received rave reviews online for being one of the most eye-catching actors alongside Hong Kyung.
Set in the 1970s, 'Good News' depicts the bizarre plan of people determined to land a hijacked airplane at all costs. Sho Kasamatsu plays the role of the terrorist group leader, Tenji, exuding a powerful presence.
Hong Kyung’s character, Seo Go-myung, tries to persuade terrorists attempting to defect, and their scenes together showcase a delightful yet tense back-and-forth performance.
Viewers reacted with comments such as "The two seem to be the heart of the story," and "The performances of Hong Kyung and Sho Kasamatsu linger in my mind even after the movie ends." Hong Kyung also stated in an interview, "Sho Kasamatsu knows well how to be charming as an actor."
Another reason why Sho Kasamatsu is gaining more attention in Korea is his fluent Korean skills. During the 'Good News' open talk at the Busan International Film Festival on the 19th of last month, he surprised the audience by skillfully engaging in Q&A almost without the help of an interpreter. The fact that he learned Korean on his own has further drawn attention, and videos from that event rapidly spread on social media, boosting interest in 'Good News'.
As interest from domestic fans surges, Sho Kasamatsu is set to meet Korean viewers once again through the new SBS drama 'Taxi Driver 3', which will premiere on November 21. The first teaser released on the 27th featured his narration, raising anticipation about whether he will appear from the first episode and drawing attention to his chemistry with Lee Je-hoon.
Meanwhile, Sho Kasamatsu has expressed his affection for Korean films and actors in several interviews. He cited directors Bong Joon-ho, Park Chan-wook, and Na Hong-jin as his favorites and mentioned that he is a fan of Ha Jung-woo and Gong Dong-won, expressing the desire to work with them in the future.
Having captured global attention with 'Good News', Sho Kasamatsu's new endeavors in Korea are eagerly awaited.