“Mr. Plankton” Screenwriter Wishes Audience Will Move On from the Emotional Finale

Exploring the Charm of “Mr. Plankton”: A Journey of Self-Discovery

“Mr. Plankton” is a heartfelt romantic comedy that chronicles the poignant journey of Hae-jo, portrayed by Woo Do-hwan, who grapples with feelings of inadequacy as he believes he was born by accident. His companion in this adventure is Jae-mi, played by Lee Yoo-mi, who is often regarded as the unluckiest woman in the world. Despite her reluctance, she finds herself accompanying Hae-jo on this transformative trip. The series has garnered significant attention, ranking fifth globally in the Non-English TV category on Netflix between November 11 and November 17. Impressively, it made the Top 10 in 42 countries, including South Korea, affirming its growing popularity even in its second week post-release.

Behind the Scenes: The Creative Minds

Released on November 8, “Mr. Plankton” features the distinctive warmth and humor characteristic of director Hong Jong-chan and writer Jo-yong. The series has been praised not only for its compelling narrative but for the emotional depth it provides, inviting viewers to reflect deeply on the human experience. The performances from the talented cast, which includes names like Oh Jung-se and Kim Hae-sook, vividly portray Hae-jo and Jae-mi’s exploration of loss, connection, and the intrinsic value of life.

Insights from Writer Jo-yong

Q. What story did you aim to tell through “Mr. Plankton”?

Jo-yong reflects on the significance of plankton, the tiny yet vital organisms that are essential to Earth’s ecosystems. “While they might seem negligible, their ability to generate oxygen is both humbling and beautiful,”Jo-yong explains. He ponders the deeper philosophical question: “Is there anyone or anything in this world that isn’t precious?”Through the series, he seeks to portray the plight of individuals who navigate life feeling lost and without purpose, akin to drifting microorganisms. The challenges they face serve as catalysts for growth, allowing them to appreciate their worth and seize the happiness they bring to others.

Q. What does the title “Mr. Plankton” signify?

The term “plankton,”derived from the Greek word for “drifter”or “wanderer,”perfectly encapsulates Hae-jo’s character, who drifts through life without roots. More broadly, the title represents all the characters in the series, each navigating their own flaws and journeys.

Q. What is the intended message behind Hae-jo and Jae-mi becoming each other’s happiness amid their struggles?

Through his relationship with Jae-mi, Hae-jo discovers a newfound appreciation for life and love, recognizing the value of moments he once overlooked. Jae-mi, whose aspirations of motherhood were dashed, learns that her deeper longing revolves around the desire for unconditional love. Their connection ultimately fulfills her true yearning for emotional intimacy.

Q. Why does the concept of “home” hold significant meaning for Hae-jo and Jae-mi?

For both characters, the notion of “home”represents a longed-for sanctuary that eludes them. Hae-jo’s errand center, whimsically named the “Errand House,” hints at his yearning for belonging. Similarly, Jae-mi seeks solace in a traditional home that doesn’t belong to her. Their shared feeling of being wanderers reinforces the overarching themes of the narrative, illustrating that sometimes the journey itself is more significant than a defined destination. Hae-jo poignantly states, “I’m not here because I have nowhere else to go. I’m here because there’s nowhere I want to be,” prompting viewers to question societal expectations of purpose and belonging.

Q. Do you have a message for the audience who loved “Mr. Plankton”?

Jo-yong expresses heartfelt gratitude to the viewers for their support of Hae-jo, Jae-mi, and the ensemble cast. He acknowledges their cheers through moments of struggle and growth, thanking director Hong Jong-chan and the entire crew who contributed to crafting this powerful narrative. Jo-yong hopes that audiences will find solace in the journey depicted in the series, steering clear of prolonged sadness over its bittersweet ending.

Source: Daum

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