According to reporter Cho Ji-young from Sports Chosun, director Park Chan-wook’s new film “No Choice” (produced by Moho Film) wrapped up its filming on the 15th after approximately five months. “No Choice” marks a long-awaited reunion between director Park Chan-wook and actor Lee Byung-hun after their previous collaborations in “Joint Security Area JSA” and “Three, Monster.” This film also features the first acting collaboration between Lee Byung-hun and Son Ye-jin, and boasts a cast including Park Hae-soon, Lee Sung-min, Yum Hye-ran, Cha Seung-won, and Yoo Yeon-seok, generating high expectations.
Lee Byung-hun plays the role of Man-su, who was laid off after 25 years at a paper company and is struggling to find new employment. Son Ye-jin plays his wife Mi-ri, who takes the lead for the family’s sake despite her husband’s sudden job loss. The first stills released along with the wrap highlight the fresh chemistry between Lee Byung-hun and Son Ye-jin.
Director Park Chan-wook, who completed 85 filming sessions starting from August 17 last year to January 15, shared his thoughts, stating, “It seems like it’s been about 17 years since I started writing the script for this film. I’m overwhelmed to have finally completed the film that I’ve longed to make for such a long time. I feel relieved that it finished safely as planned, and I aim to diligently work on post-production to create a film that will be rewarding for everyone involved.”
Lee Byung-hun expressed, “The time spent exchanging ideas like old friends with the director will linger in my memory. I hope the film will become richer with the new ideas from our extensive conversations. Although I always want to see my work soon, I can’t recall being this eager for any piece so much as this one,” while Son Ye-jin commented, “I can’t believe how quickly time flew by. As a fan of director Park Chan-wook and senior Lee Byung-hun, I felt the process was leading to a truly wonderful work every step of the way. I’m eager to show it to the audience.”
“No Choice” tells the story of a contented company employee who suddenly gets fired and then prepares for his own battle for reemployment while trying to protect his family and preserve their hard-earned home. The film features a cast including Lee Byung-hun, Son Ye-jin, Park Hae-soon, Lee Sung-min, Yum Hye-ran, Cha Seung-won, and Yoo Yeon-seok, with Park Chan-wook, known for “Decision to Leave,” “The Handmaiden,” “Sympathy for Lady Vengeance,” and “Oldboy,” at the helm.