Park Chan-wook's latest film 'No Choice' captivated Venice audiences, earning a standing ovation lasting approximately 8 minutes and 30 seconds.

Venice Premiere Draws Applause and Praise

The film premiered on August 29 at Sala Grande in Venice, Italy. As the credits rolled, the audience erupted in cheers and applause. Actors Son Ye-jin and Park Hee-soon were visibly moved.

International media outlets also praised the film. Deadline described it as "fantastically entertaining, full of endless surprises," highlighting Lee Byung-hun as "a master of slapstick." Variety called it "another testament to Park Chan-wook as possibly today's most elegant filmmaker," while The Guardian awarded 4 out of 5 stars, noting its "sensational black comedy that satirizes national circumstances." Screen Daily added that "in the AI era, no story could be more timely. It is elegant, balancing psychological tension with humor and comic setups, making it extremely enjoyable."

Story and Awards Prospects

'No Choice' is a crime thriller following Mansu (Lee Byung-hun), who, after being fired, enters the cutthroat job market. The film is based on the American novel The Ax and stars Lee Byung-hun, Son Ye-jin, Park Hee-soon, Lee Sung-min, and Yum Hye-ran.

Park Chan-wook's film is competing in the main section of the Venice Film Festival, aiming for the Golden Lion. This marks the 11th Korean film in the competition and the first in 13 years since 'Pieta' (2012).

Awards results, including the Golden Lion, will be announced on September 7 (KST). The film is scheduled for domestic release on September 24.