JTBC is set to captivate audiences with its highly anticipated drama, "We Are All Trying Here," a poignant and relatable narrative that delves into the complex tapestry of ambition, friendship, and the often-painful journey of self-discovery within the demanding world of filmmaking. The recent unveiling of new stills featuring its stellar supporting cast has amplified excitement, offering a glimpse into the intricate relationships that form the heart of this compelling series. At its core, the drama introduces us to Hwang Dong Man, portrayed by the versatile Koo Kyo Hwan, a character whose life, by his own measure, stands in stark contrast to the gleaming successes of his closest friends. Plagued by a gnawing sense of anguish, envy, and jealousy, Dong Man embarks on an introspective quest for peace, a universal struggle that promises to resonate deeply with viewers navigating their own perceptions of success and personal fulfillment.
The narrative orbits around an eight-member collective of filmmakers, a group whose bond was forged in the passionate, often chaotic, environment of a college film club. From those formative years, their paths diverged and converged, eventually leading them to become established, well-recognized figures within the industry – a testament to their collective talent and perseverance. However, one stark exception remains: Hwang Dong Man. While his peers have carved out notable careers, Dong Man has spent two decades relentlessly chasing his elusive dream of becoming a film director, yet remains un-debuted, an outlier in a circle of success. This central conflict sets the stage for a rich exploration of how friendships endure, or fray, under the immense pressure of differing achievements and personal aspirations.
Koo Kyo Hwan’s portrayal of Hwang Dong Man is expected to be a nuanced masterclass in portraying a character brimming with contradictions. As the sole member of the group yet to make his directorial debut, Dong Man paradoxically dominates conversations, offering scathing critiques of every film, often in the harshest possible terms. His unfiltered opinions and relentless ramblings are a double-edged sword: to some, he is an inexhaustible wellspring of creative inspiration, a visionary whose uncompromised artistic perspective challenges their own work. To others, however, his incessant commentary borders on insufferable, an unavoidable torrent of words that becomes increasingly difficult to ignore. This duality hints at a character whose outward bravado and critical eye might mask deep-seated insecurities and the profound weight of his unfulfilled ambitions. He embodies the passionate, often abrasive, artist who believes in his vision above all, yet struggles to translate that vision into tangible success, creating a powerful internal and external conflict that drives much of the drama’s tension.
Opposite Dong Man stands Park Kyung Se, brought to life by the acclaimed Oh Jung Se. Kyung Se is a successful film director, boasting five feature films to his credit, a clear marker of his professional triumph. Despite his accolades and established reputation, he harbors a uniquely intense love-hate relationship with Hwang Dong Man, a dynamic that has persisted for two decades. The stills reveal that even after achieving significant success, Kyung Se remains remarkably susceptible to Dong Man’s words, losing his composure and being visibly shaken by a single cutting remark from his long-time friend. This vulnerability in a successful individual speaks volumes about the enduring impact of their shared history, suggesting that Dong Man’s raw, uncompromising critiques might tap into Kyung Se’s own lingering doubts or a respect for the uncompromised artistic integrity he perceives in Dong Man, despite his friend’s lack of commercial success. It highlights how past relationships can continue to shape and challenge even the most accomplished individuals.
Providing a vital anchor to the group is Go Hye Jin, portrayed by the formidable Kang Mal Geum. As the head of Gobak Films and the unwavering support system behind Park Kyung Se’s successful career, Hye Jin exudes the charisma and grounded wisdom of a truly remarkable adult. She plays a crucial role in maintaining equilibrium within the group, serving as the guardian of their informal hideout and a patient listener to Dong Man’s often-tedious monologues. However, her patience has its limits. When Dong Man oversteps, Hye Jin doesn’t hesitate to deliver a sharp rebuke, capable even of quieting her husband Kyung Se’s insecurities with a single, pointed word. Her character embodies strength, pragmatism, and an empathetic understanding of the delicate balance required to navigate both personal and professional relationships in a high-stakes industry.
Another key figure in holding the group together is the eldest member and fellow film director, Park Young Soo, played by the experienced Jeon Bae Soo. Young Soo often steps in to smooth over the inevitable conflicts that arise within the passionate group, acting as their moral compass. His approach is balanced and nuanced; he is capable of offering comforting words and solace to Hwang Dong Man when needed, but equally ready to deliver a sharp scolding when Dong Man’s behavior crosses a line. He takes on the responsibility of being the group’s conscience, guiding them through their emotional and professional turbulence with a blend of wisdom and firm resolve, highlighting the role of a senior figure in a tightly knit creative community.
Amidst the swirling dynamics, Lee Jun Hwan, a director at Choi Films portrayed by Sim Hee Sub, stands out as the singular figure who truly understands Hwang Dong Man. This unique empathy allows him to look after Dong Man with a careful and considerate hand, perhaps seeing beyond the un-debuted director’s frustrations and ramblings to the genuine artistic spirit within. His presence suggests a more profound connection or shared perspective that sets him apart from the others, hinting at a quieter, yet deeply significant, bond.
In stark contrast to Jun Hwan’s understanding, other members of the Choi Films team—directors Lee Ki Ri (Bae Myung Jin) and Woo Seung Tae (Jo Min Guk), alongside planning producer Choi Hyo Jin (Park Ye Ni)—are depicted as being utterly worn out by Hwang Dong Man’s endless pronouncements. Their collective exhaustion paints a vivid picture of the relentless grind and competitive nature of the film industry, where the pursuit of success often overshadows personal connections. Their "complex and subtle feelings" toward their colleague—a mix of exasperation, perhaps grudging respect, and certainly a weariness born of professional pressures—offer a vibrant, unfiltered glimpse into the challenging realities of life behind the camera. These characters serve to ground the drama in the everyday struggles and emotional toll faced by those striving to make their mark in a fiercely competitive creative field.
A pivotal setting for these intricate interactions is "Ajit," the first-floor restaurant nestled within Gobak Films, diligently run by Go Hye Jin. This establishment transcends being merely a backdrop; it functions as the main meeting place, a vibrant hub where the raw, unfiltered emotions of the group truly come to life. Within its walls, rivalries simmer, jealousies flare, but also profound friendships are tested and ultimately reaffirmed, leading to moments of genuine reconciliation. Ajit is the crucible where their shared history, divergent paths, and intertwined destinies collide, making it a symbolic stage for the drama’s exploration of human connection and the messy, beautiful reality of pursuing a dream alongside those who both challenge and support you.
"We Are All Trying Here" is poised to be more than just a drama about filmmaking; it’s an intimate examination of the human condition, exploring themes of envy, ambition, the definition of success, and the enduring power of friendship. It promises to resonate with anyone who has ever felt like the odd one out, questioned their path, or grappled with the bittersweet reality of watching friends achieve what they still strive for. The rich ensemble cast and the relatable struggles presented ensure that the series will offer both laughter and tears, providing a mirror to our own aspirations and anxieties.
Prepare for an emotional and insightful journey when "We Are All Trying Here" premieres on April 18 at 10:40 p.m. KST.
In the interim, viewers can delve into the compelling performances of the lead actors by watching Koo Kyo Hwan’s evocative film "Once We Were Us" on Viki, and experience Oh Jung Se’s talent in his recent movie "Hi-Five," also available on Viki. These works offer a prelude to the depth and range these actors will undoubtedly bring to their roles in this anticipated new series.
