Amazon Prime Video’s “Butterfly” TV series, starring Daniel Dae Kim, has cast five additional actors in recurring and guest star roles.
Sean Dulake, Kim Ji-hoon and Charles Parnell join the series as recurring characters, while Sung Dong-il and Lee Il-hwa are set to guest star.
Other previously announced cast members of the cast include Reina Hardesty, Piper Perabo, Louis Landau, Park Hae-soo, Kim Tae-hee and Nayoon Kim.
“Butterfly,” an adaptation of the graphic novel written by Arash Amel and Marguerite Bennett, is a character-driven spy thriller focusing on Kim’s character, David Jung, an “enigmatic, highly unpredictable former US intelligence operative living in South Korea, whose life is blown to pieces when the consequences of an impossible decision from his past come back to haunt him, and he finds himself pursued by Rebecca (Hardesty), a deadly, sociopathic young agent assigned to kill him.”
Dulake will play Hollis, the right-hand...
Sean Dulake, Kim Ji-hoon and Charles Parnell join the series as recurring characters, while Sung Dong-il and Lee Il-hwa are set to guest star.
Other previously announced cast members of the cast include Reina Hardesty, Piper Perabo, Louis Landau, Park Hae-soo, Kim Tae-hee and Nayoon Kim.
“Butterfly,” an adaptation of the graphic novel written by Arash Amel and Marguerite Bennett, is a character-driven spy thriller focusing on Kim’s character, David Jung, an “enigmatic, highly unpredictable former US intelligence operative living in South Korea, whose life is blown to pieces when the consequences of an impossible decision from his past come back to haunt him, and he finds himself pursued by Rebecca (Hardesty), a deadly, sociopathic young agent assigned to kill him.”
Dulake will play Hollis, the right-hand...
- 4/18/2024
- by Rachel Seo
- Variety Film + TV
Doctor Slump is bringing smiles and tears to millions of Korean drama fans with its two brilliant leads Park Shin-hye and Park Hyung-sik. The Netflix series revolves around a plastic surgeon who gets entangled in a highly publicized criminal case because of a botched surgery and a doctor suffering from depression. When both of the leads meet each other again at the lowest moment in their lives, their high school rivalry starts to fade away as they start developing feelings for each other. So, if you are loving Doctor Slump here are some similar shows you could watch next.
Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha (Netflix) Credit – Netflix
Enemies to lovers is one of the most beloved tropes in Korean dramas, and this trope is used to perfection in the brilliant romantic-comedy series Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha. Based on a 2004 film titled Mr. Handy, Mr. Hong by Kang Seok-beom and Shin Jung-goo, the series revolves around...
Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha (Netflix) Credit – Netflix
Enemies to lovers is one of the most beloved tropes in Korean dramas, and this trope is used to perfection in the brilliant romantic-comedy series Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha. Based on a 2004 film titled Mr. Handy, Mr. Hong by Kang Seok-beom and Shin Jung-goo, the series revolves around...
- 2/18/2024
- by Kulwant Singh
- Cinema Blind
Death’s Game: Seo In-guk Had A “Panic Attack” While Shooting A Mid-Air Scene (Picture Credit: IMDb)
Death’s Game’s star-studded cast has everyone wondering how much the producers splurged to bring the biggest stars of Hallyuwood. The thought-provoking suspense thriller has captured audiences’ attention far and wide since it debuted in its first four episodes on Friday (December 15). With a promising narrative that has kept the audience on the edge of their seats, the K-drama has emerged as a weekend binge for K-fanatics. Ironically, it’s not only the audience whose hearts skipped a beat with bone-chilling action; lead actor Seo In-guk was also taken aback by some of the scenes. The actor has now revealed one particular scene due to which he suffered a panic attack.
The ensemble cast of the Ha Byung-hoon-directed show follows Choi Yi-jae, portrayed by Seo In-guk, whose kindness and brilliance make him stand out amongst the lot.
Death’s Game’s star-studded cast has everyone wondering how much the producers splurged to bring the biggest stars of Hallyuwood. The thought-provoking suspense thriller has captured audiences’ attention far and wide since it debuted in its first four episodes on Friday (December 15). With a promising narrative that has kept the audience on the edge of their seats, the K-drama has emerged as a weekend binge for K-fanatics. Ironically, it’s not only the audience whose hearts skipped a beat with bone-chilling action; lead actor Seo In-guk was also taken aback by some of the scenes. The actor has now revealed one particular scene due to which he suffered a panic attack.
The ensemble cast of the Ha Byung-hoon-directed show follows Choi Yi-jae, portrayed by Seo In-guk, whose kindness and brilliance make him stand out amongst the lot.
- 12/17/2023
- by Shivani Negi
- KoiMoi
It wouldn’t be an overstatement to proclaim that South Korea consistently delivers some of the most riveting thriller entertainment. Long before the (K)wave of interest in soppy K-dramas and overproduced K-pop, it was thriller Korean cinema that was gripping audiences all around the world, exemplified by masterpieces like Oldboy and I Saw The Devil. This is probably why said genre keeps delivering hard-hitting shows every month. This year alone, we’ve had a dozen in this category, with Sweet Home 2 being the latest in the mix. So, when I heard of Death’s Game, I was certainly excited to see what the industry was going to cook up for us. The South Korean industry, known for its prowess in adapting webtoons and consistently delivering compelling content, had something promising in store. Oftentimes, though, the buzz surrounding a show intensifies when it hails from said industry. When we got to...
- 12/16/2023
- by Ruchika Bhat
- Film Fugitives
International K-Drama Day: From The Glory 2 To Moving Top 10 Must-Watch Korean Shows Of 2023 ( Photo Credit – IMDb )
Korean dramas have provided a safe and comforting space to the audience over the years. Contrary to popular belief, K-dramas are not just about cliched romantic comedies, though there is nothing wrong with that, but also teach us many life lessons along the way. If K-fanatics are to be believed, 2023 has proved to be one fruitful year, with many heartwarming shows providing a feeling of contentment this year.
While K-dramas have been around for quite some time now, it wasn’t until a few years ago that Netflix, Viki, Disney+ Hotstar, and Prime Videos, among other streaming spaces, began streaming Korean shows, opening up a new dimension for global viewers. In 2023, all of these Ott giants have done a commendable job of delivering some top-notch K-dramas that have managed to swoon every drama lover out there.
Korean dramas have provided a safe and comforting space to the audience over the years. Contrary to popular belief, K-dramas are not just about cliched romantic comedies, though there is nothing wrong with that, but also teach us many life lessons along the way. If K-fanatics are to be believed, 2023 has proved to be one fruitful year, with many heartwarming shows providing a feeling of contentment this year.
While K-dramas have been around for quite some time now, it wasn’t until a few years ago that Netflix, Viki, Disney+ Hotstar, and Prime Videos, among other streaming spaces, began streaming Korean shows, opening up a new dimension for global viewers. In 2023, all of these Ott giants have done a commendable job of delivering some top-notch K-dramas that have managed to swoon every drama lover out there.
- 11/28/2023
- by Shivani Negi
- KoiMoi
"Ballerina" is a new live-action 'revenge thriller' feature, directed by Lee Chung-hyun, starring Jeon Jong-seo, Kim Ji-hoon and Park Yu-rim, now streaming on Netflix:
"...'Jang Ok-ju' is a former bodyguard who sets out to hunt down a trafficking ring headed by 'Choi Pro' in order to avenge the death of her friend 'Choi Min-hee'..."
Click the images to enlarge...
"...'Jang Ok-ju' is a former bodyguard who sets out to hunt down a trafficking ring headed by 'Choi Pro' in order to avenge the death of her friend 'Choi Min-hee'..."
Click the images to enlarge...
- 10/14/2023
- by Unknown
- SneakPeek
"Where is that bastard?" Netflix has released this Korean action film streaming already. Ballerina is the latest film made by Korean filmmaker Chung-Hyun Lee. It premiered at the Busan Film Fest and launched for streaming on October 6th this fall. "Cold-hearted and cruel, the hell of merciless revenge begins now, for my one and only." Grieving the loss of a best friend she couldn't protect, an ex-bodyguard sets out to fulfill her dear friend's last wish: sweet revenge. Jang Ok-ju is a former bodyguard who sets out to hunt down a sex trafficking ring headed by Choi Pro. Starring Jeon Jong-seo as Jang Ok-ju, with Kim Ji-hoon, Park Yu-rim, Shin Se-hwi, plus Kim Mu-yeol, Jang Yoon-ju, Kim Young-ok, and Joo Hyun. This reminds me of Kill Boksoon, another female-driven action film quietly dropped on Netflix earlier this year. Also not to be confused with the John Wick spin-off starring Ana de Armas...
- 10/11/2023
- by Alex Billington
- firstshowing.net
It is abundantly clear that the noir genre is making a huge comeback in the Asian market. Just last week, we saw Lost in the Stars, the Chinese film, come to Netflix with a similar influence. The action genre itself has had a renaissance this year, with John Wick coming back and a remake of the classic South Korean revenge thriller Oldboy. It’s always fantastic to see a female-driven action film, especially when she defies all laws of physics and is absolutely badass. In this oversaturated world of revenge thrillers, Ballerina sticks out like a radiant gem. We can’t go without comparing the beauty of this film to an actual ballet, with scenes of pastel colors and dream-like sequences that make everything look a little less deranged and much more peachy. It is a jarring contrast with the commitment the film has to violence and the race against evil.
- 10/7/2023
- by Ruchika Bhat
- Film Fugitives
Ballerina is a South Korean action thriller film directed by Lee Chung-hyun, starring Jun Jong-seo, Kim Ji-hun, and Park Yu-rim.
“Ballerina” is a stylish revenge thriller with a changing pace and a solid performance by Jun Jong-seo, who leads the cast in this film of villains and heroes with a satisfying final sequence.
While this well-executed film achieves its goals, it fails to truly shine among similar revenge thrillers. However, it does entertain and boasts strong direction, particularly in terms of aesthetics.
The film demonstrates the wisdom of restraint.
Plot
Ok Ju has a violent past that she has forgotten until one night when she discovers her friend, who has committed suicide. Everything leads her to a man who abuses girls, records them, and threatens to release the videos.
But she only has revenge on her mind.
Ballerina About “Ballerina” Ballerina
If it were the first of its kind, it...
“Ballerina” is a stylish revenge thriller with a changing pace and a solid performance by Jun Jong-seo, who leads the cast in this film of villains and heroes with a satisfying final sequence.
While this well-executed film achieves its goals, it fails to truly shine among similar revenge thrillers. However, it does entertain and boasts strong direction, particularly in terms of aesthetics.
The film demonstrates the wisdom of restraint.
Plot
Ok Ju has a violent past that she has forgotten until one night when she discovers her friend, who has committed suicide. Everything leads her to a man who abuses girls, records them, and threatens to release the videos.
But she only has revenge on her mind.
Ballerina About “Ballerina” Ballerina
If it were the first of its kind, it...
- 10/6/2023
- by Alice Lange
- Martin Cid Magazine - Movies
Award
British actor Vanessa Redgrave will receive the European Lifetime Achievement award for her outstanding body of work at the European Film Awards.
Hailing from an illustrious family of actors, Redgrave’s first lead in “Morgan: A Suitable Case for Treatment” (1966), by Karel Reisz, won her best actress at Cannes and scored BAFTA and Oscar nominations. She returned to Cannes in the following year as Jane, the mysterious woman in the park in “Blow Up” by Michelangelo Antonioni.
More Oscar nominations followed – in 1969 for her performance as Isadora Duncan in “Isadora” by Reisz, which again won her best actress at Cannes, and in 1972 for “Mary, Queen of Scots, by Charles Jarrott – which won her a special David at Italy’s David di Donatello Awards. Her performance in Fred Zinnemann’s “Julia” (1978) won her an Oscar, and she scored further nominations for James Ivory’s “The Bostonians” (1985) and “Howards End” (1993). In...
British actor Vanessa Redgrave will receive the European Lifetime Achievement award for her outstanding body of work at the European Film Awards.
Hailing from an illustrious family of actors, Redgrave’s first lead in “Morgan: A Suitable Case for Treatment” (1966), by Karel Reisz, won her best actress at Cannes and scored BAFTA and Oscar nominations. She returned to Cannes in the following year as Jane, the mysterious woman in the park in “Blow Up” by Michelangelo Antonioni.
More Oscar nominations followed – in 1969 for her performance as Isadora Duncan in “Isadora” by Reisz, which again won her best actress at Cannes, and in 1972 for “Mary, Queen of Scots, by Charles Jarrott – which won her a special David at Italy’s David di Donatello Awards. Her performance in Fred Zinnemann’s “Julia” (1978) won her an Oscar, and she scored further nominations for James Ivory’s “The Bostonians” (1985) and “Howards End” (1993). In...
- 9/20/2023
- by Naman Ramachandran
- Variety Film + TV
Right from her very first feature, Jeon Jong-seo has established that she is a daring actress, when it comes to her film choices. Starting her career on a very strong foot as Hae-mi in Lee Chang-dong's acclaimed “Burning”, she has gone on to play a psychotic serial killer from the past in Lee Chung-hyun's “The Call” and had a frank conversation on sex and relationships in the romance “Nothing Serious”, while also making her international debut in an Ana Lily Amirpour feature. Yet again, she subverts expectations and changes genres, this time going full-action mode in “The Call” director and real-life boyfriend Lee Chung-hyun's new work “Ballerina”.
Synopsis
Ok-ju used to work as a bodyguard. She excels in physical activities like martial arts, sword fighting, gunmanship, and motorcyle riding. She is friends with Min-hee, who is a ballerina. Min-hee asks Ok-ju for a favor. She wants Ok-ju to take revenge on Pro Choi.
Synopsis
Ok-ju used to work as a bodyguard. She excels in physical activities like martial arts, sword fighting, gunmanship, and motorcyle riding. She is friends with Min-hee, who is a ballerina. Min-hee asks Ok-ju for a favor. She wants Ok-ju to take revenge on Pro Choi.
- 9/9/2023
- by Rhythm Zaveri
- AsianMoviePulse
This month’s installment of Deep Cuts Rising features a variety of horror movies. Some selections reflect a specific day or event in June, and others were chosen at random.
Regardless of how they came to be here, or what they’re about, these past movies can generally be considered overlooked, forgotten or unknown.
This month’s offerings include a Japanese slasher, a dark tale about family, a Scandinavian haunting, a terrifying coming-out story, and an aquatic creature-feature.
The Attic (1980)
Directed by George Edwards and Gary Graver.
Fathers are usually depicted as unkind and cruel in horror, and the one in The Attic is no exception. Carrie Snodgress plays the dutiful Louise who has sacrificed her own happiness for far too long. When she tries to turn her life around and do something about her loneliness, which entails adopting a chimpanzee, her tyrannical father (Ray Milland) is quick to stomp out her ambitions.
Regardless of how they came to be here, or what they’re about, these past movies can generally be considered overlooked, forgotten or unknown.
This month’s offerings include a Japanese slasher, a dark tale about family, a Scandinavian haunting, a terrifying coming-out story, and an aquatic creature-feature.
The Attic (1980)
Directed by George Edwards and Gary Graver.
Fathers are usually depicted as unkind and cruel in horror, and the one in The Attic is no exception. Carrie Snodgress plays the dutiful Louise who has sacrificed her own happiness for far too long. When she tries to turn her life around and do something about her loneliness, which entails adopting a chimpanzee, her tyrannical father (Ray Milland) is quick to stomp out her ambitions.
- 6/1/2023
- by Paul Lê
- bloody-disgusting.com
The Netflix and tvN K-drama Alchemy of Souls switched their female leads from Jung So-min to Go Yoon-jung. The second half of the storyline required Go to return to her role as Nak-su, as her character sparked a love story with Jang Uk. Actor Lee Jae-wook starred as Jang Uk alongside Go for Alchemy of Souls Season 2. Their on-screen chemistry was impeccable, and the actor had blush-worthy praise for his co-star.
Go Yoon-jung and Lee Jae-wook in ‘Alchemy of Souls’ Season 2 | via tvN Lee Jae-wook had no problem with the change in the female lead for ‘Alchemy of Souls’
In the first season of the K-drama, Jung So-min played multiple roles. She played the consciousness of Nak-su while portraying herself as the character Mu-deok. While the storyline unraveled, she also played the long-lost Jin daughter and priestess, Bu-yeon. Fans were blown away by Jung’s capabilities and her on-screen relationship with Lee Jae-wook.
Go Yoon-jung and Lee Jae-wook in ‘Alchemy of Souls’ Season 2 | via tvN Lee Jae-wook had no problem with the change in the female lead for ‘Alchemy of Souls’
In the first season of the K-drama, Jung So-min played multiple roles. She played the consciousness of Nak-su while portraying herself as the character Mu-deok. While the storyline unraveled, she also played the long-lost Jin daughter and priestess, Bu-yeon. Fans were blown away by Jung’s capabilities and her on-screen relationship with Lee Jae-wook.
- 4/7/2023
- by Gabriela Silva
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
When it comes to celebrities, even Korean actors, knowing too much can be a problem. Actor Kim Ji-hoon has appeared in many K-dramas recently, from Money Hiest: Korea, First Seven Kisses, and played a heinous villain in Flower of Evil. But Kim Ji-hoon recently made waves in Netflix’s Love to Hate You. Beyond his dashing good looks, fans learned he has a peculiar habit with his clothes.
Kim Ji-hoon as a CEO in ‘Love to Hate You’ | via Netflix Kim Ji-hoon starred in ‘Love to Hate You’ as a handsome CEO
The 2023 romance breaks free of some well-known K-drama tropes with a few gender swaps. Kim Ok-vin starred as Yeo Mi-ran, a lawyer who dislikes men’s egos and superiority complex. She is not the damsel in distress as she is skilled in multiple fighting techniques, a bit fearful of her feelings, and a do-it-all herself type of woman.
Kim Ji-hoon as a CEO in ‘Love to Hate You’ | via Netflix Kim Ji-hoon starred in ‘Love to Hate You’ as a handsome CEO
The 2023 romance breaks free of some well-known K-drama tropes with a few gender swaps. Kim Ok-vin starred as Yeo Mi-ran, a lawyer who dislikes men’s egos and superiority complex. She is not the damsel in distress as she is skilled in multiple fighting techniques, a bit fearful of her feelings, and a do-it-all herself type of woman.
- 4/6/2023
- by Gabriela Silva
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Money Heist: Korea – Joint Economic Area is a South Korean remake of the Spanish hit, La Casa de Papel, starring Park Hae-soo (Squid Game).
The series is directed by Kim Hong-sun (Luca).
Plot
The story takes off in an era when North and South Korea are reunited. A professor gathers a group of talented thieves from both regions to carry out a heist of the recently minted coin.
About the Series
In the recently added episodes we are offered more action than in its predecessor, and a more elaborate production. However, it does not impress in its premise that is quite similar, perhaps, too much.
Ideal for thriller and action fans. This Netflix series is now in its second season.
Money Heist: Korea Where to Watch Money Heist: Korea – Joint Economic Area
Netflix
List of Chapters Episode 1
Recruited by the Professor for a job of unprecedented proportions, eight...
The series is directed by Kim Hong-sun (Luca).
Plot
The story takes off in an era when North and South Korea are reunited. A professor gathers a group of talented thieves from both regions to carry out a heist of the recently minted coin.
About the Series
In the recently added episodes we are offered more action than in its predecessor, and a more elaborate production. However, it does not impress in its premise that is quite similar, perhaps, too much.
Ideal for thriller and action fans. This Netflix series is now in its second season.
Money Heist: Korea Where to Watch Money Heist: Korea – Joint Economic Area
Netflix
List of Chapters Episode 1
Recruited by the Professor for a job of unprecedented proportions, eight...
- 12/9/2022
- by Veronica Loop
- Martin Cid - TV
Money Heist: Korea – Joint Economic Area is a mostly faithful adaptation of Álex Pina’s crime drama La Casa de Papel — you may know it as Money Heist, which aired from 2017 to 2021 and went from semi-successful Spanish TV series to global Netflix phenomenon. Once again, a bespectacled and somewhat squirrelly braniac named “the Professor” (Oldboy‘s Yoo Ji-tae) gathers together a motley crew of criminals and masterminds a heist at a national mint. This isn’t stealing from people, he explains, since they’re going to print new money and redistribute that wealth to,...
- 6/24/2022
- by Jae-Ha Kim
- Rollingstone.com
Half a year ago, one of Netflix’s largest international series — Spain’s “La Casa De Papel” — wrapped its fifth and final season in a blaze of agonizing glory. Now, fans who are missing out on thrills, red jumpsuits and masks galore can rejoice in the streamer’s Korean remake, “Money Heist: Korea — Joint Economic Area,” which debuted a main teaser unraveling a bit of the fan-favorite robbers’ motives.
The trailer traces the origins of the Joint Economic Area, a fictionalized mint located where present-day North and South Korea are divided. While the aim of reunification is to benefit all citizens and establish a common currency, “in reality, only the rich got richer,” the trailer’s narrator says.
“Welcome to capitalism,” Tokyo (Jeon Jong-seo) grimly adds.
Also Read:
‘Money Heist’ Creator Álex Pina to Develop Netflix Show About Life in Luxury Pandemic Bunkers
Like the original, a group of ragtag...
The trailer traces the origins of the Joint Economic Area, a fictionalized mint located where present-day North and South Korea are divided. While the aim of reunification is to benefit all citizens and establish a common currency, “in reality, only the rich got richer,” the trailer’s narrator says.
“Welcome to capitalism,” Tokyo (Jeon Jong-seo) grimly adds.
Also Read:
‘Money Heist’ Creator Álex Pina to Develop Netflix Show About Life in Luxury Pandemic Bunkers
Like the original, a group of ragtag...
- 5/20/2022
- by Natalie Oganesyan
- The Wrap
An eighth-grade student kills himself but not before writing down the names of the students who victimised him. Their parents are then called into the school and they begin to argue about who should shoulder responsibility.
(Source: Far East Films)
Based on the Japanese play “Oya no Kao ga Mitai” by Seigo Hatasawa, this film is directed by Kim Ji-hoon (Sinkhole) with a stellar cast including Sol Kyung-gu, Chun Woo-hee, Moon So-ri, Ko Chang-seok, Oh Dal-su, Kim Hong-fa and Nam Gi-ae.
Theatrical release in South Korea: April 27, 2022.
(Source: Far East Films)
Based on the Japanese play “Oya no Kao ga Mitai” by Seigo Hatasawa, this film is directed by Kim Ji-hoon (Sinkhole) with a stellar cast including Sol Kyung-gu, Chun Woo-hee, Moon So-ri, Ko Chang-seok, Oh Dal-su, Kim Hong-fa and Nam Gi-ae.
Theatrical release in South Korea: April 27, 2022.
- 4/15/2022
- by Suzie Cho
- AsianMoviePulse
Sometimes a film gets stuck in release hell due to events out of the production and distribution companies’ hands. Kim Ji-hoon’s “I Want to Know Your Parents” is one such feature. A production that has been ready since 2017, long before Kim’s latest release which was last year’s “Sinkhole”, but had to be shelved because of allegations of sexual harassment against actor Oh Dal-su in the early days of Korea’s #metoo movement. However, since his name was cleared by the courts in Korea, films involving him are starting to find their way into theatres and “I Want to Know Your Parents” is easily the most high profile of the gestating projects.
Synopsis
Kim Geon-woo, student of the prestigious Haneum International Middle School attempts suicide, but not before naming four of his classmates for incessantly bullying him and driving him towards the step. All four perpetrators are children...
Synopsis
Kim Geon-woo, student of the prestigious Haneum International Middle School attempts suicide, but not before naming four of his classmates for incessantly bullying him and driving him towards the step. All four perpetrators are children...
- 4/6/2022
- by Rhythm Zaveri
- AsianMoviePulse
Disaster movies have always found favour in Korean cinema but recently, there has been heightened interest in the genre, with several tentpole productions with big name stars going on the floors and releasing in quick succession. Director Kim Ji-hoon himself is no stranger to the genre either, with his previously released film “The Tower” being in the same vein and “Sector 7” also going strong on the mayhem, thanks to its monster element. While his completed project “I Want to Know Your Parents” still languishes in release hell, his first film to be released in nine years since “The Tower” happens to be “Sinkhole”, also a disaster movie, albeit with a somewhat different treatment this time round.
“Sinkhole” is screening at New York Asian Film Festival
After 11 years of hard work, saving up and frugal living, Park Dong-won manages to buy an apartment for himself which he moves into with his wife and son.
“Sinkhole” is screening at New York Asian Film Festival
After 11 years of hard work, saving up and frugal living, Park Dong-won manages to buy an apartment for himself which he moves into with his wife and son.
- 8/11/2021
- by Rhythm Zaveri
- AsianMoviePulse
Look, sometimes even the snootiest of cinephiles, with the most obscurantist of cinematic palates (generally well served by the Locarno Film Festival selection), just needs a movie about a massive sinkhole. And when that mood strikes, now there’s Kim Ji-hoon‘s “Sinkhole,” aka “Sing-keu-hol” (pronounced: “Sinkhole”), a modest little social issues drama about a boy from a rural farming community who haha just kidding it’s about a sinkhole.
Continue reading ‘Sinkhole’ Is A Silly, Sentimental, Satisfying Comedic Disaster Movie About Man’s Inhumanit–No, It’s About A Really Big Sinkhole [Locarno Review] at The Playlist.
Continue reading ‘Sinkhole’ Is A Silly, Sentimental, Satisfying Comedic Disaster Movie About Man’s Inhumanit–No, It’s About A Really Big Sinkhole [Locarno Review] at The Playlist.
- 8/6/2021
- by Jessica Kiang
- The Playlist
The New York Asian Film Foundation and Film at Lincoln Center have announced two final titles, completing the lineup for the upcoming 20th edition of the New York Asian Film Festival (Nyaff). The festival will be screening over 70 films, both virtually and in person, to audiences in New York and across the country from August 6 – 22, 2021. Tickets are already on sale.
Nyaff is thrilled to present as its festival Centerpiece the international premiere of Nyaff favorite director Benny Chan’s final work, Raging Fire. Completed shortly before his untimely death in August 2020, the Hong Kong-Chinese action film stars the inimitable Donnie Yen as Shan, a by-the-book cop whose past returns to haunt him. After a sting operation goes disastrously awry, Shan finds himself pitted against Ngo (Nicholas Tse), a former protégé who has turned criminal mastermind and is out for revenge. Nothing, it seems, can stop him, including his former mentor.
Nyaff is thrilled to present as its festival Centerpiece the international premiere of Nyaff favorite director Benny Chan’s final work, Raging Fire. Completed shortly before his untimely death in August 2020, the Hong Kong-Chinese action film stars the inimitable Donnie Yen as Shan, a by-the-book cop whose past returns to haunt him. After a sting operation goes disastrously awry, Shan finds himself pitted against Ngo (Nicholas Tse), a former protégé who has turned criminal mastermind and is out for revenge. Nothing, it seems, can stop him, including his former mentor.
- 8/3/2021
- by Adriana Rosati
- AsianMoviePulse
Festival runs August 6-22.
Organisers at 2021 New York Asian Film Festival (Nyaff) have announced the international premiere of Benny Chan’s Hong Kong-Chinese action film Raging Fire as the Centerpiece film.
Chan completed the film prior to his death in August 2020. Donnie Yen stars as Shan, a by-the-book cop whose past returns to haunt him. After a sting operation goes wrong Shan finds himself pitted against Ngo (Nicholas Tse), a former protégé who has turned criminal mastermind and is out for revenge.
Chan, a Nyaff Centerpiece guest in 2011, produced with Yen, whose credits include Shanghai Knights, The Monkey King, Ip Man,...
Organisers at 2021 New York Asian Film Festival (Nyaff) have announced the international premiere of Benny Chan’s Hong Kong-Chinese action film Raging Fire as the Centerpiece film.
Chan completed the film prior to his death in August 2020. Donnie Yen stars as Shan, a by-the-book cop whose past returns to haunt him. After a sting operation goes wrong Shan finds himself pitted against Ngo (Nicholas Tse), a former protégé who has turned criminal mastermind and is out for revenge.
Chan, a Nyaff Centerpiece guest in 2011, produced with Yen, whose credits include Shanghai Knights, The Monkey King, Ip Man,...
- 7/30/2021
- by Jeremy Kay
- ScreenDaily
Yet another disaster movie from South Korea, but “The Tower” and “Sector 7” director Kim Ji-hoon gives the genre a comedic twist in his newest film “Sinkhole”.
Synopsis
Jung Man-soo is a resident of Chungwoon Villa, which is a cheap apartment building. He works hard to raise his son alone. Park Dong-won works at a company. He finally becomes a homeowner after 10 years, but his home falls into a sinkhole. Park Dong-won and his co-worker Kim Seung-hyun are stuck in the fallen house.
The star-cast also includes actors who’re either known for or have proved their comedy chops in previous projects. Cha Seung-won (“Man on High Heels”) plays Jung Man-soo, Kim Sung-kyun (“The Witness”) plays Park Dong-won whereas the Prince of Asia Lee Kwang-soo (“Tazza: One Eyed Jack”) plays Kim Seung-hyun. The film is scheduled for release of August 11th, 2021.
Synopsis
Jung Man-soo is a resident of Chungwoon Villa, which is a cheap apartment building. He works hard to raise his son alone. Park Dong-won works at a company. He finally becomes a homeowner after 10 years, but his home falls into a sinkhole. Park Dong-won and his co-worker Kim Seung-hyun are stuck in the fallen house.
The star-cast also includes actors who’re either known for or have proved their comedy chops in previous projects. Cha Seung-won (“Man on High Heels”) plays Jung Man-soo, Kim Sung-kyun (“The Witness”) plays Park Dong-won whereas the Prince of Asia Lee Kwang-soo (“Tazza: One Eyed Jack”) plays Kim Seung-hyun. The film is scheduled for release of August 11th, 2021.
- 7/7/2021
- by Rhythm Zaveri
- AsianMoviePulse
Year after year a site par excellence for the most innovative premieres—in that respect an antithesis to the ensuing fall circuit—the Locarno Film Festival returns triumphant next month. Their 2021 lineup, per usual, mixes iconic names with complete unknowns and, admittedly, a head-scratcher or two. Abel Ferrara’s much-anticipated Zeros and Ones, sure. Gaspar Noé’s Vortex—makes sense. A new film from The Wild Boys director Bertrand Mandico? Great! But Shawn Levy and a Jennifer Hudson Aretha Franklin biopic?
However, new festival head Giona A. Nazzaro sees it as part of a steady influx, telling Variety “A festival can be quite highbrow and also entertaining at the same time. That is why for this year’s lineup we have selected several comedies and also some genre movies, as well as straightforward auteur films.” By that metric it’s more inclusive than almost any other major competition on the European circuit.
However, new festival head Giona A. Nazzaro sees it as part of a steady influx, telling Variety “A festival can be quite highbrow and also entertaining at the same time. That is why for this year’s lineup we have selected several comedies and also some genre movies, as well as straightforward auteur films.” By that metric it’s more inclusive than almost any other major competition on the European circuit.
- 7/1/2021
- by Leonard Pearce
- The Film Stage
After Blue (Paradis sale)The lineup for the 2021 festival has been revealed, including new films by Bertrand Mandico, Axelle Ropert, Abel Ferrara and others, alongside retrospectives and tributes, and much more.Piazza GRANDEBeckett (Ferdinando Cito Filomarino)Free Guy (Shawn Levy)Heat (Michael Mann)Hinterland (Stefan Ruzowitzky)Ida Red (John Swab)Monte Verità (Stefan Jäger)National Lampoon's Animal House (John Landis)Respect (Liesl Tommy)Rose (Aurélie Saada)Sinkhole (Kim Ji-hoon)The Alleys (Bassel Ghandour)The Terminator (James Cameron)Vortex (Gaspar Noé)Yaya e Lennie — The Walking Liberty (Alessandro Rak)Tomorrow My Love (Gitanjali Rao)Lynx (Laurent Geslin)Zeros and OnesCONCORSO INTERNAZIONALEAfter Blue (Paradis sale) (Bertrand Mandico)Al Naher (The River) (Ghassan Salhab)Espíritu sagrado (The Sacred Spirit) (Chema García Ibarra)Gerda (Natalya Kudryashova)I giganti (The Giants) (Bonifacio Angius)Jiao ma teng hui (A New Old Play) (Jiongjiong Qiu)Juju StoriesLa Place d'une autre (Secret Name) (Aurélia Georges)Leynilögga (Cop Secret...
- 7/1/2021
- MUBI
With Cannes right around the corner, two more prominent European film festivals announced their official lineups for 2021 this week. The 2021 Locarno Film Festival (the 74th edition of the event) is taking place August 4-14 and will feature the world premiere of Abel Ferrara’s “Zeroes and Ones,” plus the Melissa Leo-Frank Grillo starring thriller “Ida Red” from director John Swab. Perhaps the most prominent U.S. title in the Locarno lineup is “Respect,” the Jennifer Hudson-starring Aretha Franklin biopic that has already caught the eye of Oscar pundits here in the states. The film will screen out of competition, as will Ryan Reynolds’ long-delayed Disney-Fox tentpole “Free Guy.”
“A festival can be quite highbrow and also entertaining at the same time,” Nazzaro told Variety in a statement. “That is why for this year’s lineup we have selected several comedies and also some genre movies, as well as straightforward auteur films.
“A festival can be quite highbrow and also entertaining at the same time,” Nazzaro told Variety in a statement. “That is why for this year’s lineup we have selected several comedies and also some genre movies, as well as straightforward auteur films.
- 7/1/2021
- by Zack Sharf
- Indiewire
Abel Ferrara’s contemporary thriller ’Zeros And Ones’ stars Ethan Hawke.
Abel Ferrara’s contemporary thriller Zeros And Ones and Srdjan Dragojević’s dark comedy Heavens Above are among 17 films from 12 countries having their world premiere in the international competition at the 74th Locarno Film Festival (August 4-14) under the new artistic director Giona A. Nazzaro.
Scroll down for full line-up
In his first collaboration with Ferrara, Zeros And Ones sees Ethan Hawke plays an American soldier stationed in Rome who pursues an unknown enemy threatening the entire world after the Vatican gets blown up.
Ahead of shooting in Italy...
Abel Ferrara’s contemporary thriller Zeros And Ones and Srdjan Dragojević’s dark comedy Heavens Above are among 17 films from 12 countries having their world premiere in the international competition at the 74th Locarno Film Festival (August 4-14) under the new artistic director Giona A. Nazzaro.
Scroll down for full line-up
In his first collaboration with Ferrara, Zeros And Ones sees Ethan Hawke plays an American soldier stationed in Rome who pursues an unknown enemy threatening the entire world after the Vatican gets blown up.
Ahead of shooting in Italy...
- 7/1/2021
- by Martin Blaney
- ScreenDaily
Korea Theater Association to forgo ticket sales split until box office reaches 50% of budget.
South Korean exhibitors and broadcasters are offering major incentives to two local big-budget films – Lotte Entertainment’s Escape From Mogadishu and Showbox’s Sinkhole – that have delayed their releases due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
Members of the Korea Theater Association – including leading multiplex chains Cj Cgv, Lotte Cinema and Megabox – have declared they will forgo the usual 50:50 split of ticket sales between theatres and distributors until box office reaches 50% of each of the film’s respective total budgets including production costs and P&a.
The...
South Korean exhibitors and broadcasters are offering major incentives to two local big-budget films – Lotte Entertainment’s Escape From Mogadishu and Showbox’s Sinkhole – that have delayed their releases due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
Members of the Korea Theater Association – including leading multiplex chains Cj Cgv, Lotte Cinema and Megabox – have declared they will forgo the usual 50:50 split of ticket sales between theatres and distributors until box office reaches 50% of each of the film’s respective total budgets including production costs and P&a.
The...
- 6/17/2021
- by Jean Noh
- ScreenDaily
Koreans are no strangers to protest. Underneath the thin veneer of idol culture, smart technology, and (now apparent) phenomenal pandemic-care, South Korea has juggled with a history rife with public discontent. Maybe this is more “Parasite” vibes; in 2016-17, for example, the Candlelight Demonstrations witnessed one of the largest protests in history. International media turned all eyes to Korea, as the uprising usurped the corrupt absurdities interwoven into Park Geun-hye’s administration. The historic moment brought to light (no pun intended) a crucial part to Korea’s contemporary democracy, the end-result of a long and hard road of protest.
Forty years ago, the death of a different political leader — Park Cheong-hee — eventually led to an earlier turning-point: the Gwangju Uprising of 1980 on May 18. This bloody revolt has carved a deep scar in lived memory. As politicians climbed to power and curators commemorated the city through Asia’s oldest biennial, filmmakers...
Forty years ago, the death of a different political leader — Park Cheong-hee — eventually led to an earlier turning-point: the Gwangju Uprising of 1980 on May 18. This bloody revolt has carved a deep scar in lived memory. As politicians climbed to power and curators commemorated the city through Asia’s oldest biennial, filmmakers...
- 5/18/2021
- by AMP Group
- AsianMoviePulse
In today’s film news roundup, a Fox veteran is hired by “Crazy Rich Asians” producer Sk Global, Garry Pastore will play Albert Anastasia, and Ed Wood’s “Take It Out in Trade” is getting a release.
Executive Hiring
“Crazy Rich Asians” producer Sk Global and its Ivanhoe Pictures has hired Fox International Productions executive Xian Li as senior vice president of production.
Li will work alongside the executive teams of Ivanhoe Pictures and Sidney Kimmel Entertainment and will be charged with enhancing and expanding the company’s slate of Asian-focused global film and TV projects.
“After focusing on Asia in the past years, I’m truly inspired by the fascinating creative talents and materials available, and how they differ from the current domestic creative landscape,” Li said. “The success of ‘Crazy Rich Asians’ is a strong manifesto that the audience deserves to see more diverse content from Hollywood, and...
Executive Hiring
“Crazy Rich Asians” producer Sk Global and its Ivanhoe Pictures has hired Fox International Productions executive Xian Li as senior vice president of production.
Li will work alongside the executive teams of Ivanhoe Pictures and Sidney Kimmel Entertainment and will be charged with enhancing and expanding the company’s slate of Asian-focused global film and TV projects.
“After focusing on Asia in the past years, I’m truly inspired by the fascinating creative talents and materials available, and how they differ from the current domestic creative landscape,” Li said. “The success of ‘Crazy Rich Asians’ is a strong manifesto that the audience deserves to see more diverse content from Hollywood, and...
- 8/29/2018
- by Dave McNary
- Variety Film + TV
Executive previously served as director, development and production at Fip.
Busy Sk Global, whose Ivanhoe Pictures label co-produced and co-financed the reigning North American box office champion Crazy Rich Asians, has hired film development and production executive Xian Li as senior vice president, production.
Li will work alongside the executive teams of Sk Global’s two labels, Ivanhoe Pictures and Sidney Kimmel Entertainment, and will be charged with enhancing and expanding the slate of Asian-focused, globally minded film and TV projects.
“After focusing on Asia in the past years, I’m truly inspired by the fascinating creative talents and materials available,...
Busy Sk Global, whose Ivanhoe Pictures label co-produced and co-financed the reigning North American box office champion Crazy Rich Asians, has hired film development and production executive Xian Li as senior vice president, production.
Li will work alongside the executive teams of Sk Global’s two labels, Ivanhoe Pictures and Sidney Kimmel Entertainment, and will be charged with enhancing and expanding the slate of Asian-focused, globally minded film and TV projects.
“After focusing on Asia in the past years, I’m truly inspired by the fascinating creative talents and materials available,...
- 8/28/2018
- by Jeremy Kay
- ScreenDaily
Monster movie fans, rejoice! The long talked about Sector 7 finally has a home in the United States! Let the snarling, tearing, stomping, and killing begin!
From the Press Release
Shout! Factory announced today a multi-year agreement with Cj E&M, the leading film distribution and production company in Korea, to be the exclusive North American home entertainment distributor for two widely popular Korean motion pictures. The announcement was made by Shout! Factory’s founding partners Richard Foos, Bob Emmer and Garson Foos; and Cj E&M America’s CEO Joon Choi.
Under the multi-property alliance, Shout! Factory has secured the rights to distribute the Korean 3D creature thriller Sector 7 and action-packed adventure Quick for all packaged media (DVD/Blu-ray) home entertainment releases and digital distribution in the U.S and Canada.
“We’re excited about this opportunity with Cj E&M and look forward to bringing these films to North...
From the Press Release
Shout! Factory announced today a multi-year agreement with Cj E&M, the leading film distribution and production company in Korea, to be the exclusive North American home entertainment distributor for two widely popular Korean motion pictures. The announcement was made by Shout! Factory’s founding partners Richard Foos, Bob Emmer and Garson Foos; and Cj E&M America’s CEO Joon Choi.
Under the multi-property alliance, Shout! Factory has secured the rights to distribute the Korean 3D creature thriller Sector 7 and action-packed adventure Quick for all packaged media (DVD/Blu-ray) home entertainment releases and digital distribution in the U.S and Canada.
“We’re excited about this opportunity with Cj E&M and look forward to bringing these films to North...
- 2/14/2012
- by Uncle Creepy
- DreadCentral.com
What happens when two helicopters collide mid-air over a high rise that’s hosting a Christmas party? Utter chaos! Below (and to the left) you’ll find the first images from “Sector 7″ director Kim Ji-hoon’s South Korean disaster drama “The Tower 3D”, a movie that, as the title suggests, will present its terror in the glorious format known as the third dimension. Cinematic flames will appear to lick your twenty-dollar haircut as firefighters rush to rescue these party-goers from certain doom. Here’s a slightly more detailed plot synopsis: At Tower Sky building, the super-luxurious landmark building complex, fire bursts out during a so-called White Christmas party. Fire started when the helicopters which supposed to sprinkle the snow above the building clashed. Firefighters are swiftly sent to save all the tenants and VIP guests in the building. Sol Kyung-Gu, Kim Sang-Kyung, and Son Ye-Jin star. The embedded Cj Entertainment...
- 1/20/2012
- by Todd Rigney
- Beyond Hollywood
Sector 7 (Mining Area 7) a Korean monster movie that looks very promising does not have a Us release date yet, but we do have a English subtitled trailer to share with you. Sector 7 is directed by Kim Ji-Hoon, written by Je-gyun Yun (Tidal Wave) and stars Ji-won Ha (Phone, Tidal Wave), Sung-kee Ahn (The Warrior) and Ji-ho Oh (Strangers 8). Check out the synopsis and English subtitled trailer below. Synopsis: “The film is about a group of workers on a deep sea oil prospecting platform called ‘Eclipse’, located south of Jeju Island>>...
- 7/11/2011
- Best-Horror-Movies.com
A new and extended plot synopsis for upcoming Kim Ji-hoon helmed Korean monster horror flick 'Sector 7' (you remember, the one set on the oil rig) has arrived hand in hand with a brand new trailer also! The flick stars hottie Asian actress Ha Ji-won (below) alongside Ahn Seong-gi, Lee Han-wee, Park Cheol-min, Oh Ji-ho, Song Sae-byeok and Cha Ye-ryeon. 'Sector 7' will open in Korean theatres in 3D from 4 August. Check the trailer below....
- 7/4/2011
- Horror Asylum
Described as an homage to James Cameron's Aliens, we've now received a second trailer for Cj Entertainment's (The Host, Thirst, and many, many more) Korean creature feature Sector 7 (Mining Area 7), which scores the first look at the film's creature! Directed and produced by Kim Ji-hoon, the pic will be 3-D and is about a mutated creature runs amok in an oil prospecting ship. Ha Ji-won, who also starred in Youn's disaster film Haeundae, will rejoin. Director Youn said that Mining Area 7 will be a Korean equivalent of the Alien films and the 3D visual will mainly be realized by converting, but considerable amount of footage will be shot in 3D from the beginning.
- 7/1/2011
- bloody-disgusting.com
Sector 7 is a big-budget 3D production from Korea and is due to be released very soon. The director is Kim Ji-hoon, who previously directed May 18, the second best selling local film of 2007. The cast includes young actress Ha Ji-won (Haeundae) and one of South Korea's great actors Ahn Seong-gi (Nowhere To Hide). The new trailer is here, and I think it looks fantastic.In "Sector 7", an underwater oil field located south of Jeju Island, Hae-jun is working as a marine equipment manager on an oil prospecting ship called Eclipse. Joining the crew later is Jeong-man, a former colleague of Hae-jun's father, assigned to Eclipse as captain. Though his job is to oversee the withdrawal of the ship, he suggests conducting some...
- 7/1/2011
- Screen Anarchy
Well, now. That looks rather a lot better than expected.Sex Is Zero writer-director Yun Je-gyun had a surprise hit in 2009's Haeundae. Best known for small comedies until that point Yun aimed to deliver large scale spectacle with his disaster picture and while everyone agreed the script was lacking they also agreed that the spectacle delivered and Haeundae ended up making money hand over fist. And so Yun was given free rein to try and do it again.The end result is Sector 7, a 3D monster-on-an-oil-rig picture meant to go toe to toe with the big Hollywood blockbusters at the Korean box office as written by Yun with first time director Kim Ji-hoon at the helm. And you know what? It just might win.The...
- 5/26/2011
- Screen Anarchy
Openly admitting inspiration by James Cameron's Aliens, the official website has launched for Cj Entertainment's (The Host, Thirst, and many, many more) Korean creature feature Sector 7 (Mining Area 7), which also features the following new quad poster. Directed and produced by Kim Ji-hoon, the pic will be 3-D and is about a mutated creature runs amok in an oil prospecting ship. Ha Ji-won, who also starred in Youn's disaster film Haeundae, will rejoin. Director Youn said that Mining Area 7 will be a Korean equivalent of the Alien films and the 3D visual will mainly be realized by converting, but considerable amount of footage will be shot in 3D from the beginning.
- 5/26/2011
- bloody-disgusting.com
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