InterviewRa Mi-ran brings humor, heart to superhero film ‘Hi-Five’

Actor Ra Mi-ran / Courtesy of NEW, Anna Purna Films

Actor Ra Mi-ran takes on a new challenge in the upcoming superhero comedy film “Hi-Five,” which hits theaters Friday. The actor, known for her versatility and grounded performances, described the experience as both refreshing and unexpected.

“It was a genre I had never tried before, so it felt new to me. I’ve mostly played ‘Mrs.’ roles, but this time, the director Kang Hyoung-chul persuaded me to play a ‘Miss’ and even said she is a pretty character. I thought, ‘When else will I get to perform this kind of role?’” Ra told The Korea Times at a cafe in Seoul, Wednesday.

In “Hi-Five,” Ra portrays Seon-nyeo, a diligent yogurt salesperson who acquires mysterious superpowers after a kidney transplant. Unlike traditional superhero stories, “Hi-Five” centers on ordinary people who suddenly find themselves with extraordinary abilities.

“I think our film is different from Marvel Studios’ movies, which show characters who are special beings with special powers. But in our film, it’s just ordinary people who suddenly get superpowers. This film is grounded in reality, an attractive point to audiences I think,” Ra said.

She praised the signature comedic touch of Kang, known for making heartfelt but funny movies such as his 2011 work "Sunny,” noting that the film offers a rare opportunity for viewers to enjoy a lighthearted, entertaining movie without dealing with heavy or serious issues.

“There’s no message,” she said with a laugh. “It’s been a while since we had a film to watch just for fun ... Sometimes you just need a movie you can watch for fun. It’s important to have films like this and I’m grateful for the chance to play a different kind of character.”

According to the actor, "Hi-Five" is a clean, well-made movie that flows smoothly.

"There’s no intense violence in the action scenes ... I thought the director’s unique sense of humor really shines throughout the movie,” she said.

Actor Ra Mi-ran portrays a yogurt salesperson who gets mysterious superpowers in the movie “Hi-Five.” / Courtesy of NEW, Anna Purna Films

Ra described Seon-nyeo as a character whose superpower, unlike the other “Hi-Five” heroes, remains a mystery for much of the film.

“My ability is actually the most important, because without me, the others can’t come together as one,” she hinted. “It may not be flashy, but I think there’s potential to show more in the future.”

Talking about her co-stars, Ra expressed admiration for Lee Jae-in, who plays a taekwondo enthusiast with newfound strength and speed.

“I was envious watching Jae-in’s character take flight. It made me wonder how freeing it would be to soar through the sky,” she said.

The release of “Hi-Five” was postponed due to a drug scandal involving one of the lead actors, Yoo Ah-in. When asked about the delay, Ra responded candidly.

“For actors, it wasn’t a huge blow since we moved on to other projects, but I’m sure it was much harder for the director and production staff. Still, I’m just grateful the film is finally being released. So many people put effort into this, and I'm very thankful that we are now able to share it with audiences.”

From left, actors Kim Hee-won, Ra Mi-ran and Lee Jae-in in a scene from “Hi-Five” / Courtesy of NEW, Anna Purna Films

The actor also voiced concerns about the challenges facing Korean cinema, noting the decline in film production and theater attendance.

“There are hardly any people in theaters these days. Sometimes I worry that cinemas might disappear,” she said.

“It’s tough for films to break even now, and only very low-budget or big-budget projects seem to get made. I hope our film does well and brings more people back to theaters. It’s really a movie that’s more fun to watch together on the big screen.”

Ra is currently filming a drama series, with no immediate plans for other new projects. When asked if she has any standards for choosing a new project, the 50-year-old actor answered she chooses roles based on how interesting and enjoyable they seem, regardless of genre.

“Whether I play someone’s mother or any other role, what matters is how fun it is. I want to keep myself ready to take on any role, regardless of age or appearance. That’s how I hope to extend my career as an actor,” she said.