My Paparotti (2013 Film)
My Paparotti is a 2013 South Korean drama film directed by Yoon Jong-Chan. The film explores the relationship between a disillusioned music teacher and a talented high school student who is also involved with a local organized crime syndicate. The narrative is inspired by the real-life story of Kim Ho-Joong, who gained national attention in South Korea for his vocal talent and difficult upbringing.
Plot
Sang-Jin (Han Suk-Kyu) is a music teacher at an arts high school in Gimcheon. Once a promising opera singer in Italy, his career was cut short by a throat tumor. His life takes an unexpected turn when he is tasked with mentoring a new transfer student, Jang-Ho (Lee Je-Hoon). Jang-Ho is a high school student with a troubled past who serves as an enforcer for a local mafia group in Daegu. Despite his criminal associations, Jang-Ho possesses a deep passion for singing. The film follows the development of their mentor-student relationship as they prepare for a music competition.
Production
The film is based on the life of Kim Ho-Joong, who first rose to prominence after appearing on the television program Star King on July 18, 2009. His story of overcoming a background in gangs through his grandmother's influence served as the primary inspiration for the screenplay.
Principal photography began on August 4, 2012, at a high school in Yeoju, Gyeonggi Province. Production concluded on November 1, 2012. Actor Lee Je-Hoon completed his scenes on October 22, 2012, shortly before beginning his mandatory 21-month military service on October 25, 2012.
Cast
- Han Suk-Kyu as Sang-Jin
- Lee Je-Hoon as Jang-Ho
- Kang So-Ra as Sook-Hee
- Oh Dal-Su as Principal Deok-Saeng
- Cho Jin-Woong as Chang-Soo
