The 82nd Venice International Film Festival's institutional sector invitation film and the opening film of the 30th Busan International Film Festival, 'No Other Choice' (provided/distributed by CJ ENM | directed by Park Chan-wook | produced by Moho Film/CJ ENM Studios), has premiered at the Venice International Film Festival and is receiving widespread acclaim from around the world.
'No Other Choice' depicts the story of office worker 'Mansu' (Lee Byung-hun), who felt satisfied enough with life that he believed he had 'achieved everything' but was suddenly laid off. To protect his wife and two children, and to hold on to the house he worked hard to obtain, he prepares for his own war toward re-employment. Following its successful premiere at the Venice World Premiere on August 29 (local time), receiving over 9 minutes of standing ovation and enthusiastic cheers, waves of praise from prominent foreign media continue for 'No Other Choice'. Additionally, it has sparked even more interest by achieving a 100% freshness rating on the global review site Rotten Tomatoes.
Prominent media outlet Variety noted, "This is decisive evidence showing that Park Chan-wook is the most elegant director alive and an enchanting black comedy." The Guardian commented on "the driving force of the narrative, characterized by Park Chan-wook's unique fluidity and solid confidence. A shocking yet era-defining satire presented by Park Chan-wook. It portrays the collapse of family, the crisis of the head of the family, and the current state of the nation." IndieWire described it as "Park Chan-wook's excellent, brutal, and bitter yet humorous satire on capitalism." BBC stated, "Not only is it Park Chan-wook's most humorous film, but it is also his most humane work," raising curiosity about the ironic humor unique to 'No Other Choice'. Meanwhile, accolades continue for the seamless synergy of the reliable actors. IndieWire remarked about Lee Byung-hun, the representative actor of Korea who is globally loved, saying, "Lee Byung-hun's graceful performance is the core that supports Park Chan-wook's tragic yet comedic tone." Deadline called it "a work that showcases Lee Byung-hun's remarkable acting and proves his outstanding comedic sense," while Loud and Clear Reviews said, "Lee Byung-hun delivers an outstanding performance." Lastly, praise persists for the high-quality production born from the fingertips of top staff in various fields, including editing, mise-en-scène, and music. Next Best Picture stated, "He proves once again that he is the most creative film director alive. His unique camera work and editing remain innovative and intense," and Critics' Notebook remarked, "Stylistically, 'No Other Choice' showcases Park Chan-wook's unique refinement." Major media critics' praises continue on social media. Jada Yuan of The Washington Post stated, "A gripping black comedy. Completely overwhelming," while David Rooney of The Hollywood Reporter said, "Park Chan-wook knows how to make a movie."
Naturally, attention is focused on whether 'No Other Choice' will receive any awards. Scheduled to be released on the 24th.
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