Director Yeon Sang-ho returns with a monster creature film. Netflix confirmed the production of 'Gasu Man' on the 8th. This work is a live-action series adaptation of the legendary Japanese tokusatsu film 'The Human Vapor' by Toho.
Director Yeon Sang-ho is listed as the executive producer and screenwriter. The direction will be handled by director Shunji Katajima. Additionally, Shun Oguri and Yu Aoi have been cast.
The original film ‘The Human Vapor’ was created by director Ishiro Honda, who also created the seminal monster creature film 'Godzilla'. It was produced in 1960. The film delves into the dark sides of social structures, blending entertainment elements to create a sci-fi thriller. Even after more than half a century, it is still hailed as a masterpiece.
The new series will be reborn using cutting-edge VFX (visual effects) techniques. It is a reboot project set in modern Japan.
In addition to director Yeon Sang-ho, writer Ryu Yong-jae also participated in the co-writing of the screenplay. Ryu has previously written works such as 'Parasite: The Grey' and 'Money Heist: Korea – Joint Economic Area'.
Director Shunji Katajima participated as the assistant director of Bong Joon-ho’s 'Mother'. He has showcased powerful works such as the films 'Missing', 'Brothers in Brothel', and the series 'Gannibal'.
Directors Yeon Sang-ho and Katajima had a discussion at the Toho Studio venue, which has a 70-year history. They spent 6 years on planning and conception, and 3 years on screenplay development.
Director Yeon said, “I have always been interested in Toho's tokusatsu works. 'The Human Vapor' is a film from the 1960s, but it still has outstanding quality even today." He added, "I thought it would be an exciting piece if reborn in modern times. Director Katajima intrigued me so much that I sent him a direct message on social media."
He further expressed, "I am eagerly looking forward to seeing the work brought to life by director Katajima’s hands, even as I write the screenplay." Director Katajima stated, "In the original, there are outlandish creatures, but it also contains human drama and romance. By incorporating human drama with current VFX, I thought it would become a good piece."
He also mentioned, “I wanted to offer a role to director Yeon Sang-ho, who not only co-wrote the screenplay with writer Ryu Yong-jae but also vividly acted out scenes during the meeting.”
Shun Oguri and Yu Aoi previously worked together on the 2001 drama 'Searched by Blue and White'. This marks their first live-action casting together in 23 years.
Shun Oguri stated, "I was instinctively drawn to the unfolding story, and the human drama concealed behind an enigmatic title. I am excited to be part of this with the outstanding talents from both Japan and Korea." Yu Aoi added, "The story feels like an unknown world, so I’m anticipating what kind of experience it will be. It feels like setting sail into the vast ocean. It’s an adventurous spirit made possible with this team."
Meanwhile, 'Gasu Man' will begin filming this month and is scheduled to be released on Netflix next year.
<Photo courtesy of Netflix>
