'Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo' actor Lee Joon-gi is relieved to have finally been able to move beyond historical dramas and film a television series set in the present day; in a city no less. The actor was out promoting his upcoming television drama 'Criminal Minds,' from tvN, based on the American television series of the same name.
As noted by website Soompi, Lee Joon-gi attended a press conference on July 19 for tvN's 'Criminal Minds' where he plays the lead character who is an expert crime scene investigator and profiler at the NCI. Lee Joong-gi began by saying, "I'm sorry for doing so many historical dramas. Although the historical dramas I did took place in different places in history, it seems that a lot of people were waiting for me to do a contemporary drama."
Obviously, there are many advantages to filming a drama set in the present day; comfort being one. There is no need to wear complicated period clothing or travel to remote places; in villages, jungles or mountains. "When filming historical dramas, we travelled all over the country to film in locations that had mountains and fields, which suited a historical drama. Filming in a city is great because there's always air conditioning. When filming historical dramas, we're often in places that are remote or secluded," Lee Joon-gi said.
However, it doesn't mean it's a relaxed mood in a city set. Training for a role is still part of the package, especially if it is a crime procedural like 'Criminal Minds.' However, Lee Joon-gi had an unusual training schedule for 'Criminal Minds,' noted Soompi. He had to learn to perform magic tricks. His character is supposed to help child victims by distracting their minds from their traumatic experiences by showing them magic tricks. For his action scenes, Lee Joon-gi also learned Systema, a Russian martial art.
In the same press conference, Lee Joon-gi also made a ratings promise, notes Soompi. The actor said, "I'm learning how to edit videos these days," elaborating, "If we exceed 7 percent in viewership ratings, I will put together a video that shows the simple daily lives of our cast members." He added, "I think it's good because viewers will enjoy watching it. I'll even dance," he promised.
The first episode of tvN's 'Criminal Minds' will air on July 26 on tvN. It will occupy the Wednesday-Thursday slot at 10:50 p.m. KST.
