Veteran Korean director Park Chan-wook has officially wrapped up production on his latest project, No Other Choice, starring acclaimed actors Lee Byung-hun of Squid Game fame and Son Ye-jin from Crash Landing on You. The five-month shoot, which began in August 2024, saw Moho Film at the helm of production, with CJ ENM handling distribution.
Based on Donald Westlake’s 1997 novel The Ax, No Other Choice tells the gripping story of Man Soo, portrayed by Lee Byung-hun, a man who, after being abruptly dismissed from a paper company, embarks on a relentless quest for new employment while confronting those who stand in his way.
Joining the star-studded cast are Park Hee-soon, Lee Sung-min, Yeom Hye-ran, Cha Seung-won, and Yoo Yeon-seok. This adaptation marks a significant moment for Park Chan-wook, who first discussed his intentions to bring Westlake’s novel to the big screen during the Busan International Film Festival back in 2009.
Known for his directorial prowess, Park Chan-wook secured the Best Director award at the Cannes Film Festival in 2022 for Decision to Leave. His illustrious career boasts critically acclaimed works such as Joint Security Area, Oldboy, and The Handmaiden.
The Ax has been adapted before; Costa-Gavras directed a French-language version titled The Axe in 2005. However, with Park’s signature storytelling style and a stellar cast, No Other Choice promises to be a unique take on the classic novel.
CJ ENM has also released a first-look image, teasing fans with a glimpse of what’s to come in this highly anticipated film.
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