Directed by Park Chan Wook and inspired by Donald E. Westlake's 1997 novel "The Ax", the film centers on Yoo Man Su (Lee Byung Hun), an office worker abruptly laid off after 25 years. He struggles to regain his position while protecting his family from external threats. The cast also includes Son Ye Jin (as Man Su's wife), Yeom Hye Ran, Lee Sung Min, and Park Hee Soon.
According to Zum News on 3/9, the Korean Film Council deemed the project the most competitive among this year's contenders due to its compelling and timely theme. The dark comedy uses humor to explore bleak subjects, highlighting the protagonist's societal defiance. The cast's performance is another key element of the film's appeal.
"No Other Choice" premiered in competition for the Golden Lion at the Venice Film Festival on 29/8, garnering critical acclaim. It currently holds a 100% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, based on 19 reviews.
Deadline considers the film a strong contender for the Golden Lion, praising its profound script that addresses the anxieties of the unemployed. Variety writes, "This is a gripping film, showcasing Park Chan Wook as one of the most talented directors working today".
Critics have lauded Lee Byung Hun's performance as a career high, highlighting his portrayal of Man Su through humorous and emotional scenes. IndieWire comments, "Byung Hun's acting is key to Park Chan Wook's tragicomic tone".
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Lee Byung Hun on the red carpet at the premiere of "No Other Choice" at the 2025 Venice Film Festival. Photo: AFP |
Park Chan Wook, 62, is a leading Korean filmmaker known for his bold style and exploration of human psychology. He is renowned for his "Vengeance Trilogy": "Sympathy for Mr. Vengeance" (2002), "Oldboy" (2003) (Grand Prix winner at Cannes), and "Lady Vengeance" (2005). His film "The Handmaiden" won the BAFTA Award for Best Film Not in the English Language in 2018. He also won Best Director at Cannes in 2022 for "Decision To Leave".
Lee Byung Hun, 55, has been acting since 1991 and has won numerous awards in both film and television. His notable works include "A Bittersweet Life", "The Good, the Bad, the Weird", "I Saw the Devil", "Masquerade", "Mr. Sunshine", and Hollywood blockbusters like "G.I. Joe: The Rise of Cobra" and "Terminator Genisys". He also runs BH Entertainment, which manages top stars like Han Ga In, Han Hyo Joo, Han Ji Min, Park Bo Young, Lee Jin Wook, Ahn So Hee, and Kim Go Eun.
The actor, who previously dated Song Hye Kyo, married actress Lee Min Jung in August 2013 and has a son born in 2015. In December 2023, they welcomed their second child, a daughter.
The Oscars, the annual awards presented by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, is one of the most prestigious film events globally. The 98th Academy Awards will be broadcast on 15/3/2026. In March, Sean Baker's "Anora" won five awards, including Best Picture, at the 97th ceremony.
Que Chi (according to Zum News, Deadline)
