[Dispatch=Reporter Tae-Yoon Jung] When it comes to Tom Cruise, action comes to mind first. He has ridden motorcycles off cliffs, jumped out of airplanes, and carried out nearly impossible missions with his bare hands.

In the film "Dig," he unveiled a somewhat different story. Beyond massive action sequences, he looks into human nature and poses questions beyond political satire.

Tom Cruise expressed confidence, saying, "In nearly 50 years of making and acting in films, I have never seen or participated in a film like this. It is a truly original work."

The production team of the film "Dig" held a press conference on the 1st at Conrad Seoul Hotel in Yeongdeungpo, Seoul. Tom Cruise attended. Director Alejandro G. Iñárritu was unable to attend due to unavoidable circumstances.

"Dig" depicts a story in which a small crack that occurs at a Greenland glacier drilling facility owned by eccentric billionaire "Digger Rockwell" (played by Tom Cruise) becomes a catastrophic disaster that shakes the entire world.

This was Tom Cruise's 13th visit to Korea. He set a record for the most visits by a Hollywood actor. Tom Cruise greeted the press in natural Korean, saying, "Hello. Thank you."

It is a project prepared over approximately 9 years. He received contact from director Iñárritu on the first day of filming "Top Gun: Maverick." He recalled, "He said he wanted to discuss the next project. I went straight to the director's office from San Diego."

The reason Tom Cruise was drawn to director Iñárritu was clear. It was not simply because it was a film of a new genre.

"I think what is really important is the content within the frame rather than how it is shot, and this is a work that showcases the director's talent and originality well. In filmmaking, I feel it is 'another level.'"

The "another level" he speaks of was not limited to the camera or lens. Every element—costumes, makeup, sets, miniatures, and even small props—was interlocked with the story.

He revealed, "Meticulous consideration went into every frame. Every single thing within the frame had meaning and purpose" and "It was also important how actors utilized those elements."

His preparation as an actor was also different. To properly portray the eccentric and unconventional "Digger Rockwell," Tom Cruise meticulously studied physical characteristics, accent, and movement.

"I studied the character's physical characteristics. When the camera rolled, I wanted to move freely. It was like playing jazz. Like when playing an instrument, I move knowing what I will play."

Particularly noteworthy was the 10-minute long-take monologue that he invested considerable effort in. Significant time was needed for preparation. However, the actual filming ended faster than expected.

Tom Cruise said, "We shot about 3 to 4 times and that was it. Originally 4 days were allocated, but it was finished in just one day" and shared, "I wanted to do it one more time, but the director hugged me tightly and said, 'That's it. We got it all.'"

He had practiced that thoroughly. He emphasized, "For an artist, the body is a tool. I prepare so that what I can do in the morning, I can do in the evening, and so that I can consistently deliver my best performance anytime."

"Dig" contains various themes ranging from environmental messages to materialism, America First ideology, and political satire. What captured his most interest was a more fundamental point.

He said, "What catches my attention is about human nature. Structurally, we reflect on ourselves as human beings and take away the meaning behind it. I think this is the significance it holds for humanity beyond politics."

The philosophy he gained through making films for 46 years pointed in the same direction. Some ask whether his passionate performance was aimed at an Academy Award for acting, but what is ultimately more important than awards is the act of making films itself.

"I believe making films is a privilege. I was happy just to be able to act in an unconventional character, but what is most important is being able to convey timeless stories. I think 'Dig' is a unique film."

What he hopes for through "Dig" is not grandiose. Rather than being consumed upon release, he wishes for it to become a work where the story continues over time.

Tom Cruise said, "Beyond any award, I want to have a cinematic impact and leave behind narratives and stories that do not change over time."

"I hope 'Dig' becomes a film where audiences can see it, share different interpretations with each other, and reflect on their own lives. I want to hear your stories."

Finally, he added, "Thank you for welcoming me warmly. I arrived in Korea this morning, and I absolutely did not want to miss this. I want to come to Korea about 30 more times in the future" and continued, "I am curious what kind of discussions you will have."

"Dig" opens on the 3rd.

<Photo=Reporter Hyo-Jin Song>