Why Director Bong Joon Ho Says He Could Never Make a Musical

Bong Joon Ho's Musical Movie Dream: A Unique Perspective

Acclaimed director Bong Joon Ho, known for his masterful storytelling in films like Parasite and the upcoming Mickey 17, has expressed his thoughts on creating a musical. Despite his admiration for the genre, Bong believes he could never realistically produce one, citing a key hurdle: his aversion to moments in musicals when characters abruptly burst into song. This sentiment was shared during his recent appearance on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert.

"I can't stand the minute they start to sing," he confessed, evoking laughter from the audience. His quip highlights a common sentiment among some filmgoers who might feel awkward with the sudden shifts into singing that musicals often present. Bong elaborated with a humorous take, referencing the iconic number from West Side Story and suggesting that the transition from everyday dialogue to song often feels unnatural.

Embracing a New Type of Musical

While Bong may shy away from traditional musicals, he has previously hinted at reimagining the genre. In an earlier interview, he mused about a possible future project where characters would begin singing, only to stop in embarrassment, portraying a self-aware critique of the musical format. "I would love to make a musical where characters say, ‘Oh my God, fuck this, this is too cheesy,’ and abruptly halt their performance," he proposed, emphasizing the need for a fresh take on a beloved genre.

Excitement for Mickey 17 and Musical Aspirations

Bong's upcoming film, Mickey 17, starring Robert Pattinson, represents another step into inventive storytelling. The film follows an unlucky protagonist facing extraordinary challenges before being forced to take the ultimate leap—dying for his job. With his signature blend of humor and deeper themes, Bong continues to craft narratives that capture audiences' imaginations while also reflecting on their absurdities.

His fascination with other genres, particularly horror and sci-fi, has always allowed him to blend elements that challenge viewer expectations. As he gears up for the theatrical release of Mickey 17 on March 7, 2025, fans of Bong Joon Ho eagerly await how he would tackle yet another genre challenge—this time, with a potential twist on the musical form.

Conclusion: Why Bong's Take on Musicals Matters

Bong Joon Ho's reluctance and innovative ideas regarding musicals reflect an important conversation in the film industry about genre expectations. Musicals have historically had their own set of rules, but as directors like Bong push boundaries, it's clear that the future may hold unexpected twists. Whether he delves into a traditional musical format or creates a hybrid version where characters humorously reject the genre, audiences are always eager for his next unique vision.