Proven hit maker Ma Dong Seok is back to greet audiences once again as the warm breeze of 2025 rolls in—this time, with an occult action film.
The Holy Night: Demon Hunters follows a secret group called “The Holy Night” as they take down a demonic cult threatening to plunge the city into chaos. Ma Dong Seok plays Bau, the head of an exorcism agency who takes down evil spirits with his fists. Not only does he star in the film, but he also took part in planning and producing, carving out a new genre many are calling “Ma Dong Seok-style occult.” “I’ve long wanted to create something that blends cinematic imagination with the supernatural,” he shared. Cineplay sat down with the actor at a café in Seoul on April 24th to hear more about the project.
Q. ‘Holy Night: Demon Hunters’ premiered four years after its initial filming in 2021. Are you excited?
Holy Night: Demon Hunters has been in preparation for a very long time. The actors and production team worked hard on this project, so I am thrilled that it is finally coming out. I am pleased that Director Lim Dae Hee makes his debut with this film. I am truly grateful for that and curious to see how audiences will react to this genre that blends the occult and action.
Q: It seems that you have been quite busy just planning and producing The Roundup series. What led you to plan this project?
Through the Roundup series, I focused on creating films based on real life. I met with actual detectives and profilers, conducting research and engaging in sparring sessions at the gym to realistically portray boxing action. In my spare time, I was preparing movies that incorporated cinematic imagination. I met with director Lim Dae Hee, and we matched and discussed our synopses in the horror genre. What we were creating leaned more towards a niche genre rather than commercial success. As we continued to brainstorm genre works, we developed a worldview that combined occult elements and dark heroes. Just like unfolding a map, we highlighted parts to turn into a movie, while the backstory is currently being serialized as a webtoon titled Holy Night: The Zero. I hope to have opportunities to present it in novels or animations, but for now, I’m focusing on this film.
Q: The chemistry between Seo Hyun, who plays Sharon, and David Lee, who portrays Kim, shines in this work. What led you to cast these two actors?
Seohyun naturally carries the image of being ‘righteous.’ She is just like that in real life. I was curious how she might perform in a darker role. Actors find it hard to get opportunities to play roles that deviate from their stereotypical images. They might never get to portray the characters they truly desire throughout their careers. I wrote The Outlaws because I thought, ‘I will never get the chance to work in a crime action genre.’
David Lee is a former child star, and that makes him a veteran in the field. He is someone who can take on various roles with ease. We needed a multiplayer in our project, an actor who could bring dynamic energy across multiple facets. David Lee came to mind immediately.
Q: In this film, Ma Dong Seok’s unique comedy is once again at the forefront. It’s highly anticipated, and it could create some pressure. Considering this is the occult genre, did you not contemplate making it more serious?
We conducted a response survey with versions of the film, both with comedy and straight horror. The version with comedy received a very positive reaction. Young audiences really enjoy it. Therefore, it ultimately came out as a version filled with comedy, just like it is now.
When incorporating comedy, we often test whether it provides an interlude or becomes a disruption. We analyze this through data collection. In commercial films, this data holds significant importance. While there are no definitive answers in cinema, our aim is to make the experience a little more enjoyable for the audience.
Q: I heard that most of that comedy isn’t actually improvised?
The comedy that appears to be improvised is all scripted. I believe comedy is necessary when it fits the character and genre. In roles that utilize the “Ma Dong Seok character,” most people desire this kind of humor. In films and dramas like the 2016 show Squad 38, where the Ma Dong Seok character is less prevalent, the comedy is toned down. However, people tend to forget my character when that happens.
Q: Do you experience burnout often?
If I consider this work, it can be tough, but I genuinely love it. When filming action scenes for 12 hours straight, it gets exhausting. Acting in any scene continuously makes me feel drained. It’s tempting to want to stop, but the next day, I find myself unwittingly at the boxing gym. I go there to train with the athletes… Some people need to rest to recharge. I feel fulfilled when I engage in productive work. I’ve tried taking breaks, but it just doesn’t work for me.
I write on a pad. My fingers are thick, so it looks like this when I type. I’m very fast. I’ve written the entire script like this. People don’t believe it, but when I show them, they understand. I underline everything, too. Imagine how hard that must be. This kind of writing is a lot of mental stimulation for me. When I finish, I feel energized. It’s a satisfying feeling when I think, ‘I created something.’ So, I think working in production suits me well.
Q: Some say your roles often feel similar in tone or style. What are your thoughts on this?
There are many ‘character actors’ in the U.S., aren’t there? The kind whose unique essence shines through no matter the project. That’s the type of actor I’ve always dreamed of being. There are also actors who showcase diverse roles with varied performances, like method actors. I really admire actors like Daniel Day-Lewis. But for me, I have something specific I want to do.
I make an effort to bring variation to each project. I believe it’s essential to keep evolving as an actor. For example, I try to design action scenes differently. When my boxing mates come to watch my films, they’ll say things like, “You used a lot of footwork this time, huh?” General audiences might not notice these details, but I don’t think everyone needs to catch every nuance.
Q: You’re currently filming Pig Village, a movie being produced entirely in English. Could you introduce the upcoming projects you’re working on?
Yes, I’m preparing a big boxing-related project. I’m also thinking about a sequel to Pig Village, which I’m currently shooting. As for series, there’s Twelve, which will air soon. (The Pig Valley, starring and produced by Ma Dong Seok, is being made entirely in English for the global market, directed by Lee Sang-yong of The Roundup. Meanwhile, Twelve is a fantasy action drama where Ma Dong Seok stars and serves as a producer.)
>> Ma Dong Seok’s ‘Pig Village’ Unveils International Ensemble Cast and Details
Localized for English Readers by Kristy Moody
Localized for English Readers by Kristy Moody: I’m a longtime editor and writer who has a passion for traveling. Dedicated ZAPZEE contributor since 2024.
