The film "The God's Orchestra" (directed by Kim Hyung-hyeop) has shot another miracle into the Korean film industry by surpassing 500,000 cumulative admissions.
According to the Korean Film Council (KOFIC) integrated computer network, "The God's Orchestra" surpassed 500,000 cumulative admissions as of the 21st. It is a result achieved 22 days after its opening on Dec. 31.
What is most remarkable is the trajectory of its success. Entering its fourth week, "The God's Orchestra" produced a major upset by reaching No. 2 on the daily box office on the 19th (Monday). The following day, the 20th, it firmly held the No. 2 spot, proving that this surge was not a temporary phenomenon.
The film's crossing of the 500,000 mark carries meaning beyond a simple number. It started with as few as one-tenth the seats and screenings compared with competing films at opening, yet it achieved this result solely through the "power of the work" and viewers' "word of mouth."
The audience's fervent support, which kept the film at the top of seat occupancy rates, led to an expansion of screenings, which in turn resulted in a box office climb. Starting at No. 5, moving to No. 3 and finally rising to No. 2, "The God's Orchestra"s run is a drama in itself.
The film targeted audiences of all generations with cheerful laughs, weighty humanism and stirring music that bloom amid the ironic premise of a North Korean security officer creating a fake praise troupe. In particular, actors Park Si-Hoo and Jung Jin-woon delivered unreserved performances, and the chorus scenes reminiscent of an actual concert hall have become the driving force behind the repeat-viewing craze.
The production company said, "We are deeply grateful for the miraculous result made possible by 500,000 audience members," and added, "We will do our best to continue long-term screenings through the Lunar New Year holiday to repay the passionate support audiences have shown."
Having beaten Hollywood blockbusters to hold the No. 2 spot at the box office and reach the 500,000 milestone, the stars of "The God's Orchestra," buoyed by the support, are scheduled to meet audiences directly with stage greetings during the fourth-weekend since release.
[Photo] Courtesy of CJ CGV
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