Famous South Korean director Park Chan-wook is back with a new film, and it’s already making headlines. His latest work, ‘No Other Choice’, has been chosen to open the 30th Busan International Film Festival (BIFF), which will take place from September 17 to 26.
This film marks Park’s return to cinema after three years. His last film, ‘Decision to Leave’, won him the Best Director award at the Cannes Film Festival. Fans and critics have been eagerly waiting for his next project, and it seems like ‘No Other Choice’ is worth the wait.
The film stars Lee Byung-hun, known globally for his role in ‘Squid Game’. He plays Man-su, a man living a quiet and stable life with his wife and two children, until one day, everything changes. He suddenly loses his job, and what follows is a deep struggle to protect his family and their home. The festival describes the story as “his own war of survival.”
For the first time on screen, Lee Byung-hun will have pairing with popular actress Son Ye-jin, who plays his wife Miri. The rest of the cast includes well-known names like Park Hee-soon, Lee Sung-min, Yeom Hye-ran, and Cha Seung-won.
Also Read: Song Young-Kyu, South Korean actor known for ‘Extreme Job’, found dead at 55
Interestingly, Lee Byung-hun is not only acting in the film, he will also be the host of the BIFF opening ceremony.
The film will have its world premiere at the Venice Film Festival before coming to Busan for its Asian debut. Park Chan-wook had spoken about this film back in 2019 at BIFF, calling it a passion project he had been waiting a long time to make.
Festival director Jung Hanseok expressed his excitement about the selection. “I am deeply moved and excited to experience the premiere of Park Chan-wook’s desired project alongside diverse audiences on the festival’s opening day,” he said.
He also hoped the film would bring fresh energy and attention to Korean cinema.
Park Chan-wook is one of South Korea’s most celebrated directors. His films like ‘Oldboy’, ‘The Handmaiden’, and ‘Thirst’ are popular worldwide. He has been a regular at the Cannes Film Festival, earning several top awards, including the Grand Prix and the Jury Prize.