We chat to Gianna Jun, who plays the lead Saya in the new version of Blood: The Last Vampire, released this Friday…
In Blood: The Last Vampire did you perform your own stunts? What sort of training did you do to get in shape for the role?
I had various training programs from a distance race to kicking practice and muscle-strengthening exercises in China and U.S. I also learned intensive skills such as wire action. The action director Corey Yuen helped me a lot.
What attracted you to the role of Saya in the first place?
When I first saw her, she looked very mysterious – unfriendly and gloomy. It was kind of shocking, but very attractive.
Had you seen the original short but impressive Animation version of Blood: The Last Vampire before accepting the role? How do you think the new film differs from the original Animation?
I saw the animation after receiving the role offer from the producer Bill Kong and was impressed by the character Saya. The film focused on visual attraction rather than the story flow, while the animation describes Saya’s character and relations in more detail.
As this is your first English language film, are you hoping it leads to more roles in the West? Perhaps even a career in Hollywood?
Of course. I’m willing to do my best whenever I can have a chance.
The production itself was truly international, with talent from France, China, UK, Hong Kong, Argentina, Japan, US and of course Korea. What was the atmosphere like on set?
We barely had mutual information one another, so at first, it sometimes made the work hard. But people were so nice and friendly that we all hit it off together.
What was the best part about making this movie?
I liked to travel several countries such as China, US and Argentina. It helped me feel refreshed.
In South Korea you are best known for appearing in romantic comedies and dramas, including Il Mare, the original version of The Lake House. What was it like appearing in an all-out action movie for a change? Did you enjoy it?
It was really hard, actually. I had a three-month hard training for this action project and it made me extremely hard. But it was nothing compared to the shooting. Have you ever hung on a wire in the rain for the whole month? I’m certainly sure it’d make you feel crazy. (laughs) I was able to get in the project because I had no idea how hard it would be before. However, it also has so many attractions that I’m willing to do it again if there are any good chances.
Have you ever seen American version of The Lake House? What did you think?
It looks new and very different from the original film. But, I’m so happy that Korean films are acknowledged and remade by Hollywood.
What are plans now?
I’m planning to do one of several Korean films, but nothing is decided yet.
Blood: The Last Vampire is released on DVD and Blu-ray on 2 November by Pathé. You can win the DVD here…
We also spoke to Blood director Chris Nahon, click here to read our interview.
Thanks to Gianna Jun, Pathé and Charlotte Mach from Substance for setting up the interview.
