Big Bang's T.O.P: From Rapper To Film Star
“Tazza: The Hidden Card” starring Big Bang's T.O.P (Choi Seung Hyun) is opening in select American theaters on September 26.
“Tazza: The Hidden Card” marks the film return of T.O.P, who starred in the 2013 spy film “Commitment.”
T.O.P has is Ham Dae Gil, the male lead in “Tazza: The Hidden Card.” Dae Gil is an accomplished gambler, who is forced into a life on the run, following a botched deal. His situation is further complicated, when he is reunited with his ex-girlfriend, Mi Na. Mi Na is played by actress Shin Se Kyung.
“Tazza: The Hidden Card” is the follow up to the wildly successful 2006 film, “Tazza: The High Rollers.” The film is based on the manhwa or Korean comic “Tazza Hand of God.”
While T.O.P may not be the first K-Pop idol to transition into film, he is swiftly gaining notoriety for his solid acting skills and ability to be a sought-after leading man.
T.O.P transitioned from an underground rapper to Big Bang.
Before his debut with Big Bang, T.O.P rapped in the Korean underground scene.
T.O.P was friends with G-Dragon prior to the formation of the group. It was at the suggestion of G-Dragon that he was given consideration by Yang Hyun Suk.
However, his rap skills were not enough to have him immediately added to the early lineup of Big Bang.
While he has recently been recognized as one of the sexiest men alive, T.O.P was once considered too overweight to join Big Bang. Fortunately, he was able to overcome this obstacle.
In August 2006, Big Bang debuted with their self-titled single album which contained the song “We Belong Together” with lyrics by G-Dragon and T.O.P. The track featured vocals by Park Bom, who would later debut as a member of 2NE1.
ETN recently released footage of Big Bang during their first fan meeting in September 2006.
T.O.P was the first member of Big Bang to pursue acting.
In 2007, T.O.P became the first member of Big Bang to pursue acting when he joined the cast of the drama “I Am Sam.”
“I Am Sam” starred actor Yang Dong Geun, as a frustrated homeroom teacher along with actress Park Min Young, as a wayward student. T.O.P portrayed rowdy high school student Chae Moo Shin.
Following “I Am Sam,” he returned to work with Big Bang, while collaborating with a few artist on their tracks.
Bitten by the acting bug, T.O.P formally pursued Theater as a college major.
In 2009, T.O.P returned to K-Drama, drawing the attention of critics as the ruthless assassin Vick in the KBS2 spy drama “Iris.” T.O.P then starred in the film “19-Nineteen” with fellow Big Bang member Seungri.
T.O.P incorporated his acting skills as he appeared opposite Shin Se Kyung for the 2009 CF for the LG Crystal phone.
One of his most noted movie roles to date was that of Oh Jang Beom in the Korean War film “71: Into The Fire.” T.O.P acted opposite seasoned action film star Cha Seung Won, in the gripping tale which was based on a true story.
Following “71: Into The Fire,” he went on to appear in the adaptation of “Iris” followed by “Commitment.”
From GD&TOP to 'DOOM DADA'
On Christmas Eve 2010, YG Entertainment released the album “GD & TOP” which featured ten songs plus one bonus track from G-Dragon and T.O.P. The album was promoted through three songs, “High High,” “Knock Out,” and “Oh Yeah.” G-Dragon and T.O.P were heavily involved in the production of the album, with American EDM artist Diplo serving as a producer on the track “Knock Out.”
“GD & TOP” also included the bonus track “Turn It Up” which was a solo song from T.O.P.
In 2012, T.O.P drew attention for his colorful appearance for the concept of “Fantastic Baby” off of the album “Alive.” To date, “Fantastic Baby” remains one of the most acclaimed K-Pop videos.
In 2013, T.O.P released the single “DOOM DADA” which was supported by an equally creative music video.
From his on stage musical persona to his captivating film image, T.O.P continues to gain the attention of audiences.
“Tazza: The Hidden Card” will premier in the U.S. at CGV Cinema on September 19, with limited release on September 26.
