Live action/computer-generated “D-War” to invade US after conquering homeland

HOLLYWOOD, CA (Hollywood Today/AFP) 8/13/07 — A graphics-rich fantasy film, “D-War,” has set South Korean production records with $30 million budget and will become Korea’s widest-ever opening in the U.S. with 1,700 screens bowing it on Sept. 14.

The film, starring Jason Behr (“The Grudge,” “Roswell”) is already a blockbuster in its native land, selling 5.7 million tickets since its release on August 1, distributor ShowBox said.

“The film has been drawing an enthusiastic response mainly due to its computer graphics, although it is still early to say whether it will set a new record,” ShowBox spokesperson Choi Geun-Ha told AFP.

The film, starring Hollywood actors and directed by comic actor Shim Hyung-Rae, was shot in Los Angeles with visual effects crafted by Shim’s studio.

It is based on the Korean legend of Buraki, a serpent which can transform itself into a dragon.

Ethan Kendrick, a TV news reporter played by Behr, investigates a mysterious mass murder in Los Angeles and recalls a Korean legend in which a malevolent Buraki emerges every 500 years to threaten the world.

Ethan must save Sarah (Amanda Brooks), who was a Korean girl in her past life and is destined to deliver the dragon ball which allows Buraki to transform.

Internet commentators have praised the homegrown computer graphics but some professional critics said Shim played on patriotism to sell a simplistic story. He inserted a traditional Korean song, Arirang, into the emotional ending credits.

Shim, 49, was a comedy icon of the 1980s before becoming a director and producer, making low-budget monster films for children.

“Some say the (D-War) story is simplistic, But let’s talk about ‘Spider-Man’ and ‘Transformers’. Are their stories serious?” he told reporters at a press preview.

“If this movie had been made by James Cameron, it would have turned the whole world upside down.”