Zing Muse – Discover how Park Chan-wook’s dark comedy No Other Choice, starring Lee Byung-Hun, emerges as South Korea’s Official Oscar Entry—riveting, timely, unforgettable.
When survival becomes satire — No Other Choice fights for Korea at the Oscars
South Korea’s Cinema Council has officially selected No Other Choice, directed by the acclaimed Park Chan-wook and starring Lee Byung-Hun, as the nation’s contender for the Best International Feature Film at the 98th Academy Awards.
Inspired by Donald E. Westlake’s 1997 novel The Ax, the film plunges audiences into a dark comedy–thriller world. We follow Yoo Man-Su (portrayed by Lee Byung-Hun) — a diligent office worker abruptly dismissed after 25 years of service — who resorts to unthinkable measures to reclaim his place and safeguard his family amidst growing social threats.
Adding depth to the narrative, the cast includes Son Ye-Jin (as Man-Su’s supportive wife), alongside Yeom Hye-Ran, Lee Sung-Min, and Park Hee-Soon.
Notable milestones:
-
World premiere at the 82nd Venice International Film Festival on August 29, 2025, selected for the Golden Lion and met with outstanding critical acclaim.
-
Scheduled to open the 30th Busan International Film Festival on September 17, followed by South Korean theatrical release on September 24, 2025.
Backed by international praise, topical themes, and Park Chan-wook’s bold storytelling, No Other Choice stands as a compelling and timely representative of Korean cinema on the global stage.
Linda (news)
