'No Other Choice' filled the Venice Sala Grande with applause.
On the 30th, the film 'No Other Choice' (directed by Park Chan-wook, provided/distributed by CJ ENM, produced by Moho Film and CJ ENM Studios) announced that it held its world premiere screening on the 29th at 9:45 p.m. local time in Italy at the Sala Grande theater, the main screening venue of the Venice International Film Festival. With Director Park Chan-wook, Lee Byung-hun, Son Ye-jin, Park Hee-soon, Lee Sung-min, and Yeom Hye-ran in attendance, the audience filled the 1,032 seats, giving a standing ovation and showering the night of the film festival with praise.
Before the official screening, Director Park Chan-wook and the actors responded with relaxed smiles to the intense media coverage on the red carpet. The attention towards the main characters of 'No Other Choice' sparkled into the enthusiasm that filled the theater.
As the screening began and the music played, applause erupted. As the audience immersed themselves in the desperate survival drama crafted by Director Park Chan-wook, the theater quickly filled with a tranquil atmosphere. The narrative shifting between tension and relaxation heightened the immersion, while ironic humor that appeared at unexpected moments brought laughter throughout. The actors' performance added dimension to the characters, and the seamless synergy led the film smoothly, providing a unique enjoyment. Furthermore, Director Park Chan-wook's distinctive mise-en-scène and intricate music enriched the film's density, completely drawing the audience into Park Chan-wook's world.
As the screening concluded, the audience's standing ovation and cheers lasted for about 9 minutes. In response to the enthusiastic reaction from the crowd, Director Park Chan-wook embraced the actors and staff, sharing his heartfelt emotions. After completing the premiere schedule, Director Park Chan-wook noted, "This was the first time we presented the film to the audience, and those who watched came up to say they enjoyed it. I hope those words are sincere."
The admiration that filled the theater led to a barrage of positive reviews from major foreign media. Moreover, it recorded 100% freshness on the global review site Rotten Tomatoes, emerging as the most anticipated film this fall. The Guardian reported, "Director Park Chan-wook's distinctive narrative momentum, characterized by fluidity and solid confidence, stands out. It begins like a comedic farce but soon transforms into an entirely different genre. It paints a portrait of family disintegration, a father's crisis, and the current state of the nation."
Screen International praised, "Scenes that evoke psychological tension and laughter blend masterfully." Variety described it as "decisive proof that Park Chan-wook is one of the most dignified directors currently, presenting a captivating black comedy," while IndieWire remarked, "Director Park Chan-wook's exquisite, brutal, and bitter yet humorous satire of capitalism. Lee Byung-hun's graceful performance is key to sustaining the tragic yet comedic tone of Director Park Chan-wook." Next Best Picture expressed, "With this film, Park Chan-wook once again proves to be the most creative filmmaker currently. His unique camera work and editing remain innovative and intense."
Contributors from major media outlets worldwide also expressed explosive reactions on social media. Jack Walters of ScreenRant evaluated, "It's fantastic. A sharp and intellectual thriller that continuously elevates tension, seamlessly embedding a black comedic tone into the story." Josh Parham of Next Best Picture stated, "Another original work by Director Park Chan-wook. Lee Byung-hun delivers a powerful and sharp performance." Dallas King of Flickfeast remarked, "It's funny, heartfelt, and simultaneously frightening. These three elements blend perfectly in the film."
'No Other Choice' tells the story of 'Mansu' (Lee Byung-hun), a company employee who felt life was satisfactory enough to think 'I have achieved everything,' suddenly getting fired, preparing for his own war towards re-employment to protect his wife and two children and to preserve the hard-earned house. It draws attention as Director Park Chan-wook's new film features the collaboration of reliable actors, dramatic developments, beautiful mise-en-scène, solid direction, and even the addition of black comedy. It is set to be released on Sept. 24.
[Photo] Provided by CJ ENM.
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