There’s no one quite like Don Lee. Ma Dong-seok, the beloved Korean action star, has become famous for his imposing stature, powerful punches, and natural charisma. While he has long enjoyed a successful career in Korea, his breakout role in Train to Busan catapulted him to international fame. Marvel then cast him as Gilgamesh in Eternals, further solidifying his status as a global sensation. Lee’s most recent film, The Roundup: No Way Out, is the third and most impressive installment in the immensely popular Roundup crime thriller series, which has not only taken the Korean box office by storm but has also captivated audiences worldwide.
Polygon had the privilege of exchanging questions with Lee via email. The interview delves into his approach to action sequences, his influences, his missed opportunity to join the John Wick franchise, and his thoughts on the upcoming Train to Busan remake.
Don Lee’s Boxing Background Shines Through
Don Lee’s passion for boxing permeates through his films. In his early years, he aspired to become a professional boxer. This experience has shaped his approach to roles, instilling in him qualities such as endurance and humility, which he believes are crucial in both boxing and life. The Roundup series, in particular, draws heavily from boxing techniques and serves as a testament to Lee’s lifelong dedication to the sport. The integration of authentic boxing moves into the action sequences presented a challenge that required close coordination with the stunt team, with whom Lee has cultivated a partnership spanning two decades. Even now, he maintains his boxing training regimen and engages in sparring sessions with professional boxers, ensuring that his punches pack an authentic punch on the big screen.
The Art of Compelling Action in the Modern Era
In today’s cinematic landscape, there are various types of action to be explored, ranging from weapon-based combat to high-octane car chases and even fantastical elements. However, Lee’s particular focus lies in hand-to-hand combat without the aid of weapons. His background in boxing lends itself to this style of action, and he prioritizes realistic fight scenes that resonate with audiences. The Roundup: No Way Out is a testament to his commitment to delivering captivating action sequences that seamlessly blend the physicality of boxing with the rigors of filmmaking. Lee acknowledges the influence of successful action filmmakers such as Sylvester Stallone (Rocky series), Chad Stahelski (John Wick series), J.J. Perry (John Wick stunt coordinator), and Chris Hemsworth’s action-packed performance in Extraction.
Contact and Realism in Action Sequences
The Roundup movies are notable for their high-impact punches, with every element—from action and camerawork to sound design—working in harmony to create a visceral experience for viewers. While the fight scenes strive for realism, safety remains a top priority. Although punches do not connect with the actors’ faces, there are instances where body contact is necessary. During these moments, safety gear is worn to minimize risk. Despite the precautions, the hits are still forceful enough to have a significant impact, almost reaching the organs. Lee is determined to strike a balance between realistic action and ensuring the audience’s enjoyment.
Adapting to Varying Opponents
In The Roundup: No Way Out, Lee encounters opponents of different sizes and physicalities, ranging from middleweight to super heavyweight. To maintain the realism of the boxing action, Lee adapts his approach to each fight scene. He employs swift movements reminiscent of a skilled boxer in some instances and emphasizes the power of a slugger in others. Lee wanted to convey the authentic experience of a knockout punch, which can immobilize an opponent with just one or two well-placed blows. Authenticity and a commitment to delivering realistic action sequences that resonate with the audience remain Lee’s top priorities.
Embracing Global Audiences
With the advent of easily accessible global platforms, Lee acknowledges the power of film as a universal language that transcends cultural and linguistic barriers. This realization fuels his ambition, encouraging him to think beyond logistical limitations and budgets when envisioning and producing films. Lee believes that by embracing boundless creativity, filmmakers can create captivating content that connects with audiences worldwide.
The Future Beyond Eternals
Lee is no stranger to collaborating with Hollywood. He recognizes the similarities between the Korean and Hollywood film industries, where actors and crew members work tirelessly to create exceptional movies. The primary difference lies in the language used, with Hollywood films predominantly employing English while Korean films rely on the Korean language. However, the power of the medium allows for communication beyond language barriers, building bridges between diverse audiences. Lee draws inspiration from his experience working with Marvel Studios on Eternals and expresses his desire to continue exploring the expansive possibilities offered by the fictional universe in future projects. As for specific franchises, Lee remains open to enticing opportunities that may come his way.
The Train to Busan Remake
Train to Busan holds a special place in Lee’s heart, and he eagerly anticipates the Hollywood remake, directed by Timo Tjahjanto. Lee’s only wish is that the remake does justice to the original and captivates audiences just as the Korean version did.
In conclusion, Don Lee’s star continues to rise, transcending borders and captivating audiences worldwide. His dedication to his craft and his ability to infuse his boxing background into his roles has set him apart as a truly unique action star. Whether it’s in Korean cinema or the global stage, Lee’s impact is undeniable, and audiences eagerly await his future projects.