Park Chan-wook's 'No Choice' to Open 30th Busan International Film Festival

Renowned director Park Chan-wook's latest film, 'No Choice,' has been selected as the opening film for the 30th Busan International Film Festival.

Marking his first release in three years since 'Decision to Leave' (2022), Park's 'No Choice' tells the story of Mansu, played by Lee Byung-hun, a content office worker who suddenly finds himself unemployed. The film follows his desperate struggle to protect his family, including his wife, played by Son Ye-jin, and their two children, as he embarks on a personal battle to secure new employment and save their home.

Actor Lee Byung-hun, who will also host the festival's opening ceremony, takes on the role of Mansu, a job seeker waging a fierce war for reemployment. Son Ye-jin portrays his wife, Miri, who remains steadfast in her efforts to protect her family amidst any crisis. The film features a stellar cast, including Park Hae-soo, Lee Sung-min, Yum Hye-ran, and Cha Seung-won, promising powerful performances. With its dramatic narrative, unique mise-en-scène, and solid direction, the film depicts one man's desperate fight to safeguard his life and family. Park Chan-wook has previously expressed his deep affection for this story, calling it "the one I most wanted to make" during the 2019 Busan International Film Festival.

Celebrating its 30th anniversary, the Busan International Film Festival has chosen 'No Choice' as a fitting piece for its grand opening ceremony. The selection reflects the festival's aim to present a film that the 5,000 attendees would most want to see, while also injecting fresh energy into the current Korean film industry. By selecting a masterpiece from a director who has long championed the greatness of Korean cinema, the festival seeks to foster a connection with its audience and pay homage to the present state of Korean film.

Festival Executive Director Jeong Han-seok expressed his excitement, stating, "It's thrilling to think that we can share the story Park Chan-wook most wanted to tell with so many viewers on the first day of the festival. I hope this selection will increase interest in the film and extend to a broader appreciation for Korean cinema."

'No Choice' will be showcased at the 30th Busan International Film Festival, which runs from September 17 to 26.

Reported by Kim Ji-won, TenAsia bella@tenasia.co.kr