Yunho's Unique Cinema Debut: Why Did He Choose a Theater for His Comeback?
"I've dreamt of this moment." TVXQ's Yunho met with reporters at a cinema on August 7, the release date of his new solo album, flashing a satisfied smile as he spoke.
The press conference took place at the Megabox COEX Dolby Cinema in Samseong-dong, Gangnam-gu, Seoul. The venue is a special cinema fitted with the latest technology from Dolby Laboratories, a global video and audio entertainment company.
Here, Yunho unveiled a short film titled 'NEXUS' prepared for his 3rd mini-album 'Reality Show'. He expressed, "I wanted to convey the album's message through a new format of video that sits between a movie and a music video." He added, "Choosing Dolby Cinema ensures an enjoyable experience for those attending. Watching the short film on the big screen feels refreshing."
'Reality Show' features six tracks, including the title track 'Vuja De', as well as 'Wannabe', 'Tarantino', 'Relax', 'Spotlight', and 'Curtain'. The album uniquely interconnects these six tracks with storytelling. Through the short film, listeners can access the highlights of all the album songs.
In the current trend where short video clips and dance challenges are popular, promoting the new album with a 14-minute short film is intriguing. Yunho remarked, "Trends exist because classics exist," identifying himself as a "second-generation idol influenced by the first generation," having experienced the tape, CD, and streaming eras. He believes short films could be akin to short video clips for him.
The short film incorporates a metaverse worldview Yunho had conceived years ago. "It's set in a future where one can traverse between reality and virtual world," Yunho explained. The story depicts Noah, an introverted loner, navigating the metaverse. "It's a concept and universe I've contemplated since my military days. I eagerly awaited the day to showcase this album filled with so much passion and hard work." Yunho also mentioned interviewing various age groups to set the message for the short film, hoping that those facing a wide gap between reality and ideals will maintain their 'work-life balance' and live healthily in the real world.
Yunho played the lead character Noah, and unexpectedly, aespa's Karina makes an appearance as an AI character. On her casting, Yunho said he wanted someone impactful, and upon reading an article titled "Karina seems more AI than an actual AI," he approached her. He praised her dedication, saying she arrived well-prepared and that fans would be intrigued by her transformed appearance.
The album's title track, 'Vuja De', is a vibrant dance song grounded in jazz big band sounds and fast swing rhythms. Its name represents the opposite of 'Deja Vu' and speaks about people living fierce daily lives, having lost their dreams and souls. Yunho emphasized focusing on big band sounds reminiscent of shows.
The album's tracks and short film were released at 6 PM, but Yunho won't immediately start his music show promotions. "I want to approach promotions differently," Yunho explained. "Typically, I'd be on music shows in the comeback's first week, but I want to first meet my fans, especially those in the provinces. After that, I'll appear on broadcasts for about a week."
"Typical Yunho," some say, anticipating his solo activities with unique content and methods. Yunho concluded, "Many, including director Yoon Je-kyoon and senior Hwang Jung-min, have shown support and encouragement for this comeback. Hearing 'Yunho has his own path' energizes me. I wish to continue taking confident, innovative steps in my career."
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