Park Chan-wook's Latest Film 'No Other Choice' Explores the Fear of Unemployment

Even acclaimed director Park Chan-wook isn't immune to the fear of audience reactions.

On the 22nd, a press screening for the film 'No Other Choice' was held at CGV Yongsan I'Park Mall in Seoul. The event was attended by director Park Chan-wook, actors Lee Byung-hun, Son Ye-jin, Park Hee-soon, Lee Sung-min, and Yeom Hye-ran.

'No Other Choice' tells the story of Man-soo, played by Lee Byung-hun, a satisfied company employee who suddenly finds himself unemployed. The film follows his personal battle to re-enter the workforce. Based on Donald E. Westlake's 1997 novel 'The Ax,' 'No Other Choice' made its world premiere at the 82nd Venice International Film Festival and was also featured at the 50th Toronto International Film Festival and the 30th Busan International Film Festival.

Lee Byung-hun portrays the desperate job seeker Yoo Man-soo, while Son Ye-jin plays his resilient wife Mi-ri. Park Hee-soon takes on the role of Choi Seon-chul, a successful paper company manager, and Lee Sung-min plays veteran industry worker Koo Beom-mo. Yeom Hye-ran appears as Beom-mo's wife, Lee Ah-ra, and Cha Seung-won stars as the seasoned industry expert Go Si-jo.

Director Park Chan-wook shared, “Even as a seasoned director, I constantly compare my work to previous films and worry about audience reactions. I strive to create films that are different from my last, exploring new directions.”

He continued, “If 'Decision to Leave' was poetic, this film is more prosaic. It's a film filled with content, unlike the spaciousness of 'Decision to Leave.' While the previous film had a strong feminine aspect, this one explores masculinity. I hope those who enjoyed 'Decision to Leave' will appreciate this new side of my work.”

Discussing the film's central theme of unemployment, Park remarked, “I, too, am a potential unemployed person. After finishing a project, there's always the fear that the next one might not get funded. It's not just someone else's story. Unemployment can destroy families and, for traditional men, it can feel like a denial of their masculinity, leading to a sense of inadequacy.”

Lee Byung-hun, collaborating with Park for the third time, said, “Having worked with him on 'Joint Security Area' 25 years ago and 'Three... Extremes' 21 years ago, I feel I know him well. Despite our long-standing relationship, I was still amazed by his direction.”

He added, “We spent a lot of time discussing ideas during filming. Although it was physically demanding, it was a joyful experience. Even after extensive conversations, I often realized the depth of his direction only after seeing the final product.”

Son Ye-jin praised Park's detailed direction, saying, “His perspective on film is sharp and broad. After watching the film, I realized how extraordinary he is. I trust him so much that I could act as if beans were red beans if he asked me to.”

Park Hee-soon shared, “I've done many films, but this is the first time I've attended so many press conferences. I was prepared to be exposed, but it was actually Lee Sung-min who was. Working with Park was a happy experience, and I hope to work with him again.”

Lee Sung-min confessed, “I felt like a local tough guy meeting a professional fighter. I was nervous throughout filming, but it was a unique experience.”

Yeom Hye-ran commented, “Park's work tends to make actors tense, not because of his direction, but because of the depth and meaning in his films. The script's ending surprised me, revealing unexpected alliances and resolutions.”

'No Other Choice' is set to release on the 24th.

Ryu Ye-ji, TenAsia Reporter ryuperstar@tenasia.co.kr