Willem Dafoe's Hands and Other News

BUSAN, South Korea - On Saturday evening, Willem Dafoe and wife Italian director Giada Colagrande took the stage at the ‘Open Talk’ theater on Haeundae Beach. They are in town to promote their film, “A Women.”

In the 45 minute informal talk session, they discussed a wide range of topics such as preparing for films, choosing roles, why there was no kiss scenes in their recent movie, and inevitably, their opinion on Korean food.

Dafoe was much more relaxed on stage with his wife than at yesterday’s press conference. That may have been due to the fact that there was only one reference to the ‘Green Goblin” character today, and the large audience was very welcoming.

During the interview session however, he deferred questions to his wife on many occasions, laughing, “She’s smarter than me!” It was one of many one-line quips of his interview, including his advice of, “Don’t do it!” when asked to give advice to aspiring actors. He was very down-to-earth, and quite comedic on the stage, though his strong stage presence was certainly felt.

At the conclusion of the ceremony, his hands were imprinted in cement in honor of his contribution to cinema and stage.

In other news:

Korean actor, and recent father Jang Dong-gun was in town yesterday to promote “The Warrior’s Way.” The event featured a video showing the process of production and highlights from the film as well as a Q&A session with Jang, director Sangmoo Lee and producer Barrie Osborne. The movie's cast also includes some of Hollywood's biggest names including Kate Bosworth, Danny Huston and Geoffrey Rush.

If you haven’t checked out the PIFF Pavilion and the surrounding area, there are many vendors advertising everything from the IPhone 4, to a Korean culture and food booth. There are many activities to see or do if your taking a break from the movies, including concerts and of course, the people watching.  

The Embassy of France successfully held “French Night” at the Grand Hotel last evening. Hosted by Ambassador to Korea Elisabeth Laurin, it was attended by multiple directors, journalists and film-related guests. Special guests included Kim Dong-ho, actress Han Ji-hye and Willem Dafoe and wife Giada Colagrande.