Noemie Merlant’s sophomore feature “The Balconettes” plays as a raunchy horror-comedy with a greater social conscience. The film follows three roommates – an actress, played by Merlant, a camgirl played by “Dune: Part Two” breakout Souheila Yacoub and a frustrated writer played Sanda Condreanu – who are initially infatuated and eventually repelled by a lothario neighbor from across the yard. Exploring questions of coercion and consent with a healthy dose of blood and guts, “The Balconettes” wants to entertain and energize in equal measure.
Variety spoke with the filmmaker ahead of her film’s world premiere in Cannes.
How did this film come about?
Four years ago, I found myself escaping from a daily life that was suffocating. I went to live with women, with friends of mine, including Sanda Codreanu, who stars in the film. This was the first time I’d lived with other women, and the first time...
Variety spoke with the filmmaker ahead of her film’s world premiere in Cannes.
How did this film come about?
Four years ago, I found myself escaping from a daily life that was suffocating. I went to live with women, with friends of mine, including Sanda Codreanu, who stars in the film. This was the first time I’d lived with other women, and the first time...
- 5/18/2024
- by Ben Croll
- Variety Film + TV
Copenhagen-based REinvent International Sales has picked up international sales rights to the major arthouse feature “Hana Korea,” based on the true story of a North Korean young defector who tries to carve herself a new life in South Korean society.
The hybrid project, produced by Sonntag Pictures’ Sara Stockmann with Seesaw Pictures’ Heejung Oh (“Pearl of the Desert”) is due to start lensing in August on location in Korea.
Danish documentary filmmaker Frederik Sølberg (“Doel”) has partnered with some of Korea’s biggest talent on both sides of the camera to bring authenticity to his fiction debut.
In a major coup, writer-director Sharon Choi, the famous interpreter of Bong Joon-ho who first appeared by his side when he landed the Cannes Palme d’Or for “Parasite” in 2019, has boarded the project as co-writer.
First A-list Korean acting talent on board include Minha Kim from Apple TV+ series “Pachinko” and the seasoned Kim Joo-ryung,...
The hybrid project, produced by Sonntag Pictures’ Sara Stockmann with Seesaw Pictures’ Heejung Oh (“Pearl of the Desert”) is due to start lensing in August on location in Korea.
Danish documentary filmmaker Frederik Sølberg (“Doel”) has partnered with some of Korea’s biggest talent on both sides of the camera to bring authenticity to his fiction debut.
In a major coup, writer-director Sharon Choi, the famous interpreter of Bong Joon-ho who first appeared by his side when he landed the Cannes Palme d’Or for “Parasite” in 2019, has boarded the project as co-writer.
First A-list Korean acting talent on board include Minha Kim from Apple TV+ series “Pachinko” and the seasoned Kim Joo-ryung,...
- 5/16/2024
- by Annika Pham
- Variety Film + TV
Quentin Tarantino is undoubtedly one of the finest filmmakers of our time. But as much as he is a passionate filmmaker, he is also a passionate cinephile: having absorbed the best that contemporary cinema has to offer since childhood, Tarantino bases his work on the most recognizable tropes and directorial styles, creating a refined pop culture mishmash. And as a huge film buff, Tarantino shared a list of the 20 films he 'admires the most' in a conversation with Sky Movies in 2009.
20 Must-Watch Movies According to Tarantino
Before we get to the list itself, it's important to note that it's not in order of importance, but in alphabetical order. Except for the number one, because for Tarantino it is 'favorite movie that has come out in the last 17 years.' Besides, as he pointed out, this is one of the few movies he would personally dream of directing.
But without further ado,...
20 Must-Watch Movies According to Tarantino
Before we get to the list itself, it's important to note that it's not in order of importance, but in alphabetical order. Except for the number one, because for Tarantino it is 'favorite movie that has come out in the last 17 years.' Besides, as he pointed out, this is one of the few movies he would personally dream of directing.
But without further ado,...
- 5/13/2024
- by louise.everitt@startefacts.com (Louise Everitt)
- STartefacts.com
Here’s what we know about Longlegs so far. It’s coming in July of 2024, it’s directed by Osgood Perkins (The Blackcoat’s Daughter), and it features Maika Monroe (It Follows) as an FBI agent who discovers a personal connection between her and a serial killer who has ties to the occult. We know that the serial killer is going to be played by none other than Nicolas Cage and that the marketing has been nothing short of cryptic excellence up to this point.
At the very least, we can assume Neon’s upcoming film is going to be a dark, horror-fueled hunt for a serial killer. With that in mind, let’s take a look at five disturbing serial killers-versus-law-enforcement stories to get us even more jacked up for Longlegs.
Memories Of Murder (2003)
This South Korean film directed by Oscar-winning director Bong Joon-ho (Parasite) is a wild ride. The...
At the very least, we can assume Neon’s upcoming film is going to be a dark, horror-fueled hunt for a serial killer. With that in mind, let’s take a look at five disturbing serial killers-versus-law-enforcement stories to get us even more jacked up for Longlegs.
Memories Of Murder (2003)
This South Korean film directed by Oscar-winning director Bong Joon-ho (Parasite) is a wild ride. The...
- 4/17/2024
- by Mike Holtz
- bloody-disgusting.com
Disney+ has reveled the release date for its ambitious Korean political drama Uncle Samsik, starring Song Kang-ho in his TV series debut. The show will launch with a five-episode premiere on May 15 exclusively on Disney+ internationally and on Hulu in the U.S. The 16-part series will then unfurl in batches of two episodes per week until a three-part season finale drops on June 19.
Uncle Samsik is directed by veteran Korean writer and filmmaker Shin Yeon-shick (The Russian Novel, Cobweb), who is also making his series debut with the project.
Set in 1960s Korea, the series follows Kim San, an ambitious idealist who is driven to turn his country’s fortunes around. A recipient of an Albright Scholarship, San wants nothing more than to transform his country into an industrial nation and deliver an American level of affluence to the people of Korea. Determined to become a success, San attracts...
Uncle Samsik is directed by veteran Korean writer and filmmaker Shin Yeon-shick (The Russian Novel, Cobweb), who is also making his series debut with the project.
Set in 1960s Korea, the series follows Kim San, an ambitious idealist who is driven to turn his country’s fortunes around. A recipient of an Albright Scholarship, San wants nothing more than to transform his country into an industrial nation and deliver an American level of affluence to the people of Korea. Determined to become a success, San attracts...
- 4/2/2024
- by Patrick Brzeski
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
It’s been six years since Parasite took the cinema world by storm and changed the landscape for Western films in general. The Bong Joon Ho movie became the first foreign film to win Best Picture at the Academy Awards. It beat out the likes of Joker, The Irishman, Jojo Rabbit, and 1917. Parasite is about a low-class family who forms a symbiotic relationship with the wealthy Park family. However, that relationship is threatened when greed and class discrimination challenge the values of both families. Bong Joon Ho has been a strong filmmaker for decades now. Mother, Memories of Murder, and...
- 3/16/2024
- by Jeffrey Bowie Jr.
- TVovermind.com
Blue Finch Film Releasing presents A Bittersweet Life, The Foul King and The Chaser on digital platforms from 8 April. These must-see modern Korean cult cinema classics from acclaimed filmmakers Kim Jee-woon and Na Hong-jin, are exploding back onto screens, with The Foul King available in the UK and Ireland for the very first time.
A Bittersweet Life
Gangster Sun-woo (Lee Byung-hun) has worked his way up the ranks in his organisation, earning the trust of his callous crime boss Mr. Kang, who assigns him to spy on his mistress fearing she may be having an affair. When Mr Kang's suspicions are found to be true, Sun-woo finds his life on the line when his choice to spare the mistress and her secret lover's lives starts an irreversible gang war.
This ultra-stylish neo noir is written and directed by renowned filmmaker Kim Jee-woon, and features a career-defining performance from international star Lee Byung-hun,...
A Bittersweet Life
Gangster Sun-woo (Lee Byung-hun) has worked his way up the ranks in his organisation, earning the trust of his callous crime boss Mr. Kang, who assigns him to spy on his mistress fearing she may be having an affair. When Mr Kang's suspicions are found to be true, Sun-woo finds his life on the line when his choice to spare the mistress and her secret lover's lives starts an irreversible gang war.
This ultra-stylish neo noir is written and directed by renowned filmmaker Kim Jee-woon, and features a career-defining performance from international star Lee Byung-hun,...
- 3/15/2024
- by Rhythm Zaveri
- AsianMoviePulse
Disney+/Hulu has been confirmed as the global home of Uncle Samsik, the South Korean drama series starring Parasite‘s Song Kang-ho.
News of the 1960s-set series first emerged last year, at which point the network or streamer behind it hadn’t been confirmed. Disney+ has confirmed that it will launch globally this year, with Hulu doing the same in the U.S.
Uncle Samsik mark the first time in Song’s decades-long career that he has starred in a drama series, and it has now been confirmed that Byun Yo-han has joined the cast. Song will play the titular character and Byun as Kim San.
The series follows San, an ambitious idealist who is driven to turn his country’s fortunes around. He attracts the attentions of Pak Doochill (Uncle Samsik) a shady fixer who takes whatever steps necessary to help him accomplish his boss’s goals. Together, the pair form an uneasy alliance,...
News of the 1960s-set series first emerged last year, at which point the network or streamer behind it hadn’t been confirmed. Disney+ has confirmed that it will launch globally this year, with Hulu doing the same in the U.S.
Uncle Samsik mark the first time in Song’s decades-long career that he has starred in a drama series, and it has now been confirmed that Byun Yo-han has joined the cast. Song will play the titular character and Byun as Kim San.
The series follows San, an ambitious idealist who is driven to turn his country’s fortunes around. He attracts the attentions of Pak Doochill (Uncle Samsik) a shady fixer who takes whatever steps necessary to help him accomplish his boss’s goals. Together, the pair form an uneasy alliance,...
- 1/3/2024
- by Jesse Whittock
- Deadline Film + TV
Parasite‘s Song Kang-ho is set to star in Uncle Samsik, Disney+’s ambitious period drama from Korean writer-director Shin Yeon-shick.
Set in 1960s Korea, a time of great social and political upheaval, Uncle Samsik tells the story of a young idealist man who is driven to turn his country’s fortunes around. The man attracts the attention of a shady fixer, who adapts to any situation and takes whatever steps necessary to help him accomplish his boss’ goals.
Song will play the fixer Pak Doochill/Uncle Samsik, and Byun Yohan (Mr. Sunshine, Six Flying Dragons) with the idealistic Kim San.
Written and directed by Shin, the series is notable for being the filmmaker’s first television project, as well as Song’s first appearance in a drama series. The pair worked together on Shin’s volleyball drama One Win and his black comedy Cobweb, both of which were released in 2023.
As well as Parasite,...
Set in 1960s Korea, a time of great social and political upheaval, Uncle Samsik tells the story of a young idealist man who is driven to turn his country’s fortunes around. The man attracts the attention of a shady fixer, who adapts to any situation and takes whatever steps necessary to help him accomplish his boss’ goals.
Song will play the fixer Pak Doochill/Uncle Samsik, and Byun Yohan (Mr. Sunshine, Six Flying Dragons) with the idealistic Kim San.
Written and directed by Shin, the series is notable for being the filmmaker’s first television project, as well as Song’s first appearance in a drama series. The pair worked together on Shin’s volleyball drama One Win and his black comedy Cobweb, both of which were released in 2023.
As well as Parasite,...
- 1/3/2024
- by Abid Rahman
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Following years of delays and pandemic restrictions, and now celebrating a post-strike awards season, what better way to kick off the 35th annual Palm Springs Intl. Film Festival than with a “fun and naughty film,” says festival director Lili Rodriguez.
Thea Sharrock’s “Wicked Little Letters” will enjoy its U.S. premiere Jan. 5 at the desert fest, followed by 179 films from 74 countries including 47 premieres, while showcasing a lineup of 40 international feature film Oscar submissions.
“The real excitement is that we’re back to a full-on festival with all pre-pandemic offerings, and 100% venue capacity. The moment we saw ‘Wicked Little Letters,’ we knew we needed it as our opener,” says Rodriguez.
Among films earning attention at Psiff include the world premieres of “A Look Through His Lens,” which details the life of Oscar-winning cinematographer Philippe Rousselot, and “All About the Levkoviches,” from debuting director Adam Breier. The event closes with “Ex-Husbands,...
Thea Sharrock’s “Wicked Little Letters” will enjoy its U.S. premiere Jan. 5 at the desert fest, followed by 179 films from 74 countries including 47 premieres, while showcasing a lineup of 40 international feature film Oscar submissions.
“The real excitement is that we’re back to a full-on festival with all pre-pandemic offerings, and 100% venue capacity. The moment we saw ‘Wicked Little Letters,’ we knew we needed it as our opener,” says Rodriguez.
Among films earning attention at Psiff include the world premieres of “A Look Through His Lens,” which details the life of Oscar-winning cinematographer Philippe Rousselot, and “All About the Levkoviches,” from debuting director Adam Breier. The event closes with “Ex-Husbands,...
- 1/2/2024
- by Nick Clement
- Variety Film + TV
Is it possible that the thriller genre has taken the back seat lately? There’s something very stunted about thriller films from the past year that leaves me wondering if I’ve seen too many or if they’re just not as good as they used to be. The Abandoned is a Taiwanese film about two police officers, one struggling with the grief of a traumatic incident (tell me something new), and the other a young and excited newcomer who wants to win everyone over with her skills. The first big problem with this film is how incompetent the protagonists are. Is it for comic relief? Is it meant to keep us on our toes, hoping they’ll survive despite their many errors? Is it because they’re women and are meant to be inferior? At some point, you’re left wondering, “How are they not dead already?” I suppose...
- 1/1/2024
- by Ruchika Bhat
- Film Fugitives
There was a time when any great international actor tended to be reduced to their perceived Hollywood counterpart whenever they were discussed in the U.S. press. Under this outmoded prerogative, Korean screen icon Song Kang-ho easily could be described as his country’s simultaneous answer to both Marlon Brando and Tom Hanks, such is his seemingly contradictory blend of sardonic physicality, fearsome technique, lyrical humanism and overwhelming likability. Today, thankfully, it is sufficient to simply describe Song Kang-ho as Song Kang-ho: “One of the protean greats of world cinema — a master, end of,” as Tilda Swinton, a co-star with Song in Bong Joon Ho’s Snowpiercer (2013), once summed him up in an interview with The Hollywood Reporter.
For global movie buffs, arguably one of the most exciting stories of the past 30 years has been the renaissance and growing global reach of Korean cinema — and no figure has been more...
For global movie buffs, arguably one of the most exciting stories of the past 30 years has been the renaissance and growing global reach of Korean cinema — and no figure has been more...
- 12/3/2023
- by Patrick Brzeski
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
The sequel to 2018’s Believer has left fans more than dissatisfied. It’s already an established fact that the only good thing about the film is Han Hyo-Joo’s performance, which has taken over social media for her badassery alone. The film attempts to fill the gaps like plastering over the Mona Lisa, making a terrible sequel to a well-received film. What made Believer a big hit was the impressive cast, the action-packed story that kept you on the edge of your seats, as well as the impactful ending. Believer 2 begins before that open ending, leading up to the moments there, and then completely ruins it. We suppose you can’t trust anything with Believer in the title right now. If you’re looking for some fantastic Korean thrillers to make yourself feel better after seeing this blunder, here’s the perfect list for you.
Ballerina
Let’s start...
Ballerina
Let’s start...
- 11/21/2023
- by Ruchika Bhat
- Film Fugitives
The holidays are upon us, so whether you looking for film-related gifts or simply want to pick up some of the finest the year had to offer in the category for yourself, we have a gift guide for you. Including must-have books on filmmaking, the best from the Criterion Collection and more home-video picks, subscriptions, magazines, music, and more, dive in below.
Giveaways
In celebration of our holiday gift guide, we’ll be doing a number of giveaways! First up, we’re giving away My First Movie Vol. 2, a three-part ‘lil cinephile series by Cory Everett and illustrator Julie Olivi, featuring My First Spaghetti Western, My First Yakuza Movie, and My First Hollywood Musical.
Enter on Instagram (for My First Yakuza Movie), Twitter (for My First Hollywood Musical), and/or Facebook (for My First Spaghetti Western) by Sunday, November 26 at 11:59pm Et. Those that enter on all three platforms...
Giveaways
In celebration of our holiday gift guide, we’ll be doing a number of giveaways! First up, we’re giving away My First Movie Vol. 2, a three-part ‘lil cinephile series by Cory Everett and illustrator Julie Olivi, featuring My First Spaghetti Western, My First Yakuza Movie, and My First Hollywood Musical.
Enter on Instagram (for My First Yakuza Movie), Twitter (for My First Hollywood Musical), and/or Facebook (for My First Spaghetti Western) by Sunday, November 26 at 11:59pm Et. Those that enter on all three platforms...
- 11/20/2023
- by The Film Stage
- The Film Stage
[Editor’s note: this list was originally published September 2023, and has since been updated.]
There was a time not too long ago when whodunnits seemed to be a dusty relic of cinema’s past. Mysteries about a cast of colorful characters at the center of a murder case, and the intrepid detective investigating them, were far and few between in movie theaters for what felt like decades, and the rare films to feature those plots seldom attracted much attention. But nowadays, the genre is back, baby.
In 2017, Kenneth Branagh directed and starred as the iconic detective Hercule Poirot in “Murder on the Orient Express,” based on one of mystery writer Agatha Christie’s most famous novels. It was the first high-profile Christie adaptation to hit theaters in ages, after 1988’s “Appointment with Death.” The movie was highly successful, and Branagh has returned to that Poirot mustache with “Death on the Nile” and “A Haunting in Venice,” the latter of which opened in theaters this month.
There was a time not too long ago when whodunnits seemed to be a dusty relic of cinema’s past. Mysteries about a cast of colorful characters at the center of a murder case, and the intrepid detective investigating them, were far and few between in movie theaters for what felt like decades, and the rare films to feature those plots seldom attracted much attention. But nowadays, the genre is back, baby.
In 2017, Kenneth Branagh directed and starred as the iconic detective Hercule Poirot in “Murder on the Orient Express,” based on one of mystery writer Agatha Christie’s most famous novels. It was the first high-profile Christie adaptation to hit theaters in ages, after 1988’s “Appointment with Death.” The movie was highly successful, and Branagh has returned to that Poirot mustache with “Death on the Nile” and “A Haunting in Venice,” the latter of which opened in theaters this month.
- 11/15/2023
- by Wilson Chapman
- Indiewire
Korea’s Cj Enm has announced a partnership with Saudi Arabian animation studio Manga Productions. Under the new pact, the studios will “co-produce and distribute content across all areas of media and entertainment including animation, TV series, films, webtoons, infrastructure and more. The partnership also aims to “mutually enhance talents and human resources,” according to an official release.
Manga Productions is known primarily for its animation and game production. Cj Enm is a Korean entertainment and retail giant that began life as Cj O Shopping in 1994. It has been known as Cj Enm since 2018. Its film division has been responsible for modern Korean classics like “Memories of Murder,” “Oldboy,” “Secret Sunshine” and “The Handmaiden.”
Dr. Essam Bukhary, CEO of Manga Productions, said in a statement that the partnership “would enable the two creative forces to merge and offer exceptional entertainment content to audiences worldwide. The partnership would be an essential...
Manga Productions is known primarily for its animation and game production. Cj Enm is a Korean entertainment and retail giant that began life as Cj O Shopping in 1994. It has been known as Cj Enm since 2018. Its film division has been responsible for modern Korean classics like “Memories of Murder,” “Oldboy,” “Secret Sunshine” and “The Handmaiden.”
Dr. Essam Bukhary, CEO of Manga Productions, said in a statement that the partnership “would enable the two creative forces to merge and offer exceptional entertainment content to audiences worldwide. The partnership would be an essential...
- 11/2/2023
- by Drew Taylor
- The Wrap
Killers of the Flower Moon is the latest Martin Scorsese film and as expected it’s brilliant. The revisionist western crime drama film is co-written by Eric Roth and it is based on a book of the same name by David Grann. The crime drama film revolves around a series of Oklahoma murders in the Osage Nation during the 1920s after oil was found on tribal land. Killers of the Flower Moon stars Leonardo DiCaprio, Robert De Niro, and Lily Gladstone. So, if you also loved Killers of the Flower Moon here are the 10 best similar movies you could watch next.
The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford (Rent on Prime Video) Credit – Warner Bros.
Synopsis: The names ricochet through Western lore. Jesse James (Brad Pitt) was the most notorious outlaw of his time, wanted by the law in ten states yet celebrated as a Robin Hood in newspapers and dime novels.
The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford (Rent on Prime Video) Credit – Warner Bros.
Synopsis: The names ricochet through Western lore. Jesse James (Brad Pitt) was the most notorious outlaw of his time, wanted by the law in ten states yet celebrated as a Robin Hood in newspapers and dime novels.
- 10/23/2023
- by Kulwant Singh
- Cinema Blind
Reptile is a mystery thriller film directed by Grant Singer, who also co-wrote the film with Benicio Del Toro and Benjamin Brewer. The Netflix film follows a hardened detective who tries to uncover the mystery behind the murder of a young real estate agent. Reptile stars Benicio Del Toro, Alicia Silverstone, Justin Timberlake, and Michael Pitt. So, if you love the Netflix film here are some similar shows you could watch next.
The Little Things (Max & Prime Video Add-On) Credit – Warner Bros.
Synopsis: Kern County Deputy Sheriff Joe “Deke” Deacon (Washington) is sent to Los Angeles for what should have been a quick evidence‐gathering assignment. Instead, he becomes embroiled in the search for a serial killer who is terrorizing the city. Leading the hunt, L.A. Sheriff Department Sergeant JimBaxter (Malik), impressed with Deke’s cop instincts, unofficially engages his help. But as they track the killer, Baxter is...
The Little Things (Max & Prime Video Add-On) Credit – Warner Bros.
Synopsis: Kern County Deputy Sheriff Joe “Deke” Deacon (Washington) is sent to Los Angeles for what should have been a quick evidence‐gathering assignment. Instead, he becomes embroiled in the search for a serial killer who is terrorizing the city. Leading the hunt, L.A. Sheriff Department Sergeant JimBaxter (Malik), impressed with Deke’s cop instincts, unofficially engages his help. But as they track the killer, Baxter is...
- 10/14/2023
- by Kulwant Singh
- Cinema Blind
Editor’s note: This review was originally published at the 2023 Busan Film Festival. Netflix releases the film on its streaming platform on Friday, October 27.
Paradise is ever elusive in the work of Bong Joon Ho, no matter what form it might take. That’s true whether it be resolution in “Memories of Murder,” wealth for the Park family of “Parasite,” or even the so-called “calm” that dead animals bring in “Barking Dogs Never Bite.” It’s this search for happiness that typifies the South Korean auteur’s work best, and nowhere is that more evident than in director Bong’s first narrative film: “Looking for Paradise.”
It’s often presumed that “White Man” — a 16mm short released in 1994 — was Bong’s directorial debut, but Netflix’s upcoming documentary, “Yellow Door: ’90s Lo-fi Film Club,” reveals that’s not the case. “Paradise” actually predates it by two entire years and, looking back now,...
Paradise is ever elusive in the work of Bong Joon Ho, no matter what form it might take. That’s true whether it be resolution in “Memories of Murder,” wealth for the Park family of “Parasite,” or even the so-called “calm” that dead animals bring in “Barking Dogs Never Bite.” It’s this search for happiness that typifies the South Korean auteur’s work best, and nowhere is that more evident than in director Bong’s first narrative film: “Looking for Paradise.”
It’s often presumed that “White Man” — a 16mm short released in 1994 — was Bong’s directorial debut, but Netflix’s upcoming documentary, “Yellow Door: ’90s Lo-fi Film Club,” reveals that’s not the case. “Paradise” actually predates it by two entire years and, looking back now,...
- 10/11/2023
- by David Opie
- Indiewire
Veteran Korean actor Byun Hee-bong, best known for his collaborations with Oscar winner Bong Joon-ho, including Okja and Memories of Murder, has died. He was 81.
Byun’s family confirmed that the actor died Monday after a lengthy battle with pancreatic cancer in a statement to local news outlet Yonhap News Agency.
Born in southern Korea in 1924, Byun began his career on the stage before transitioning to TV. Some of his most notable small screen credits include The First Republic (1981), The Joseon Dynasty 500 Years: Seoljungmae (1985), and The Legendary Doctor – Hur Jun (1999).
Byun later moved to the big screen. He is best known internationally for his work with Parasite filmmaker Bong Joon-ho. Byun starred in four films by the Oscar winner: Barking Dogs Never Bite (2000), Memories of Murder (2003), The Host (2006), and Okja (2017).
Byun picked up numerous awards throughout his career, including the Baeksang Arts Award for Most Popular Actor in 1985 and Best...
Byun’s family confirmed that the actor died Monday after a lengthy battle with pancreatic cancer in a statement to local news outlet Yonhap News Agency.
Born in southern Korea in 1924, Byun began his career on the stage before transitioning to TV. Some of his most notable small screen credits include The First Republic (1981), The Joseon Dynasty 500 Years: Seoljungmae (1985), and The Legendary Doctor – Hur Jun (1999).
Byun later moved to the big screen. He is best known internationally for his work with Parasite filmmaker Bong Joon-ho. Byun starred in four films by the Oscar winner: Barking Dogs Never Bite (2000), Memories of Murder (2003), The Host (2006), and Okja (2017).
Byun picked up numerous awards throughout his career, including the Baeksang Arts Award for Most Popular Actor in 1985 and Best...
- 9/18/2023
- by Zac Ntim
- Deadline Film + TV
Byun hee-bong, a veteran South Korean actor who appeared in several films by Oscar-winning director Bong Joon Ho, has died age 81.
Byun died on Monday after complications related to a return of the pancreatic cancer that had previously occurred and been treated, according to the semi-official Yonhap News agency. The precise circumstances of his demise were not disclosed.
He was born in Jangseon, South Jeolla Province, and started work at an unspecified time in live theater before becoming a voice performer for state TV network Mbc in 1966.
His TV work in the 1980s and 1990s included series including: 1981’s ”The First Republic”; 1985’s “The Joseon Dynasty 500 Years: Seouljungmae”; and 1999’s “The Legendary Doctor Hur Jun.”
His first reliably recorded feature film work was in Bong’s breakout 2000 film “Barking Dogs Never Bite.” Byun appeared in significant roles in three other films by Bong: the cultish “Memories of Murder,” in 2003; 2006 Cannes...
Byun died on Monday after complications related to a return of the pancreatic cancer that had previously occurred and been treated, according to the semi-official Yonhap News agency. The precise circumstances of his demise were not disclosed.
He was born in Jangseon, South Jeolla Province, and started work at an unspecified time in live theater before becoming a voice performer for state TV network Mbc in 1966.
His TV work in the 1980s and 1990s included series including: 1981’s ”The First Republic”; 1985’s “The Joseon Dynasty 500 Years: Seouljungmae”; and 1999’s “The Legendary Doctor Hur Jun.”
His first reliably recorded feature film work was in Bong’s breakout 2000 film “Barking Dogs Never Bite.” Byun appeared in significant roles in three other films by Bong: the cultish “Memories of Murder,” in 2003; 2006 Cannes...
- 9/18/2023
- by Patrick Frater
- Variety Film + TV
The murder-mystery renaissance really is in full effect right now. The likes of Only Murders In The Building, Poker Face, and Apple TV’s The Afterparty have been making armchair detectives of us all on the telly side of things, but it’s the big screen sleuthing boom that’s had genre fans flocking to the multiplexes with their magnifying glasses and (presumably) deerstalkers most recently. With whodunnits as wildly varied as Park Chan-wook’s sensual Decision To Leave, the superbly silly See How They Run, Rian Johnson_ – which leans hard into the ‘D’ of DC Comics – on offer, it’s not exactly hard to see why, either.
Now, as we prepare to take enough champagne to fill the, erm, canals of Venice with us to see Kenneth Branagh_, we at Empire HQ have put our tan raincoats on and launched an investigation into the very best the genre has to offer.
Now, as we prepare to take enough champagne to fill the, erm, canals of Venice with us to see Kenneth Branagh_, we at Empire HQ have put our tan raincoats on and launched an investigation into the very best the genre has to offer.
- 9/15/2023
- by Jordan King, James White, Beth Webb, Sophie Butcher, Nick de Semlyen
- Empire - Movies
Since the wake of the 21st century in 2000, there have been several movie releases globally, with a few hits and misses. The film industry has progressed much, but some intermittent drawbacks have occurred. And as we draw near to the first quarter of the 21st century, we find it quite thrilling to look at some of the best movies of the 21st century so far.
Related: 10 Best Movies of All Time, Ranked by Viewers
What is the yardstick for this sort of selection? A few articles are already online ranking either the top 50, 75, or 100 greatest movies of the 21st century, but we thought to go with the viewers’ voice. Therefore, this result is compiled based on two IMDb articles listing the top 75 greatest and top 50 movies of the 21st century. We picked the 25 best movies that viewers consider the best through their votes and ratings.
That way, this is not our list per se.
Related: 10 Best Movies of All Time, Ranked by Viewers
What is the yardstick for this sort of selection? A few articles are already online ranking either the top 50, 75, or 100 greatest movies of the 21st century, but we thought to go with the viewers’ voice. Therefore, this result is compiled based on two IMDb articles listing the top 75 greatest and top 50 movies of the 21st century. We picked the 25 best movies that viewers consider the best through their votes and ratings.
That way, this is not our list per se.
- 8/23/2023
- by Dee Gambit
- buddytv.com
Choi Min-sik in OldboyPhoto: Neon
When Parasite won the Academy Award for Best Picture in 2020, it marked a historic moment for cult favorite filmmaker Bong Joon-ho and for South Korean cinema. While some American audiences were surprised, and even annoyed, to see an international film win Best Picture, many film...
When Parasite won the Academy Award for Best Picture in 2020, it marked a historic moment for cult favorite filmmaker Bong Joon-ho and for South Korean cinema. While some American audiences were surprised, and even annoyed, to see an international film win Best Picture, many film...
- 8/15/2023
- by Richard Newby
- avclub.com
For the lucky few who caught Park Chan-wook’s Oldboy during its original, limited U.S. theatrical release in 2005, the film landed with the full force of the Korean cultural wave that was yet to come. Here, seemingly out of nowhere, was a viscerally disturbing cinematic vision — live octopus-eating, hand-to-hand combat via claw-tooth hammer and a climax involving double incest and the severing of a human tongue — but one delivered in a style as baroquely accomplished as anything Hollywood or American indie cinema had ever produced. The experience was that rarest of aesthetic shocks to the system (perhaps now extinct in our late, smartphone-everywhere era), like landing in a country and culture totally foreign to you for the first time, or stumbling onto a landmark work from a true master artist — who, somehow, you hadn’t even known existed.
To celebrate the film’s 20th anniversary, Neon is rereleasing Oldboy in U.
To celebrate the film’s 20th anniversary, Neon is rereleasing Oldboy in U.
- 8/11/2023
- by Patrick Brzeski
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
On the press tour for Talk to Me, Danny Philippou’s car accident as a teenager has risen to a level so apocryphal that he assumes I’m already aware of the incident. At 16, he suffered an episode of irrepressible shakiness while hospitalized for his injuries, and it took the touch of his sister’s hand to bring him out of shock and back to reality.
That experience is just one of many that feed directly into Talk to Me, the film he directed with his twin brother, Michael. Like many a great directorial debut, the work feels like a release of everything the 30-year-old filmmakers have been waiting to share with the world. In their freshman feature, suburban Australian teenagers in search of freedom and fun turn to the new frontier spiritual possession through a ritual involving an embalmed hand.
The connection to Danny’s incident comes through in...
That experience is just one of many that feed directly into Talk to Me, the film he directed with his twin brother, Michael. Like many a great directorial debut, the work feels like a release of everything the 30-year-old filmmakers have been waiting to share with the world. In their freshman feature, suburban Australian teenagers in search of freedom and fun turn to the new frontier spiritual possession through a ritual involving an embalmed hand.
The connection to Danny’s incident comes through in...
- 7/28/2023
- by Marshall Shaffer
- Slant Magazine
The filmmakers behind the year's most terrifying horror film, "Talk to Me," have a fascinating backstory that rivals any of the supernatural chills and thrills in their feature film debut. The Australian sibling duo of Danny and Michael Philippou first got their start as YouTubers, as we've previously written about here. But don't let their humble beginnings fool you. The pair of movie aficionados certainly didn't shy away from wearing their cinematic influences on their sleeves when it came time to write and film "Talk to Me."
The filmmakers revealed as much during a recent interview with /Film's Jacob Hall. In our review of the film, Chris Evangelista made note of the pervasive Sam Raimi influence, particularly through the usage of gore and makeup that feels of a piece with "The Evil Dead." But as it turns out, their specific inspirations for their newest film go even deeper than that.
The filmmakers revealed as much during a recent interview with /Film's Jacob Hall. In our review of the film, Chris Evangelista made note of the pervasive Sam Raimi influence, particularly through the usage of gore and makeup that feels of a piece with "The Evil Dead." But as it turns out, their specific inspirations for their newest film go even deeper than that.
- 7/26/2023
- by Jeremy Mathai
- Slash Film
The co-writer of the crime investigative drama ‘Kohrra’, Gunjit Chopra has opened up on how the Korean movie ‘Memories of Murder’, left a lasting impression on him, and influenced some of his ideas, for the writing of this series.
One of the key aspects that Gunjit sought to explore through ‘Kohrra’ was the private lives of police officers, a realm rarely depicted in crime dramas.
He revealed how the characters he met during his work on another project in Punjab, became a source of inspiration for him.
“I thought, why not blend elements from various lives into cop characters and see how it unfolds? The Korean movie ‘Memories of Murder’ also left a lasting impression, influencing some of my ideas,” said the creative mastermind.
‘Memories of Murder’ is a 2003 South Korean crime thriller film directed by Bong Joon-ho. It is based on the 1996 play ‘Come to See Me’ by Kim Kwang-rim.
One of the key aspects that Gunjit sought to explore through ‘Kohrra’ was the private lives of police officers, a realm rarely depicted in crime dramas.
He revealed how the characters he met during his work on another project in Punjab, became a source of inspiration for him.
“I thought, why not blend elements from various lives into cop characters and see how it unfolds? The Korean movie ‘Memories of Murder’ also left a lasting impression, influencing some of my ideas,” said the creative mastermind.
‘Memories of Murder’ is a 2003 South Korean crime thriller film directed by Bong Joon-ho. It is based on the 1996 play ‘Come to See Me’ by Kim Kwang-rim.
- 7/26/2023
- by Agency News Desk
- GlamSham
Indian police procedural noir “Kohrra” (“Fog”) is the latest hit for streaming service Netflix.
The six-episode Punjabi- and Hindi-language drama bowed July 15 atop the Netflix India chart, where it remains in pole position for a second week. It also placed highly in the streamer’s top 10 charts across much of South Asia and the Middle East.
In the show, when a bridegroom from the U.K. is found dead days before his wedding, two cops must unravel the troubling case as turbulence unfolds in their own lives. The cast is led by Suvinder Vicky, known for Cannes title “The Fourth Direction” and Venice festival title “Milestone,” and Barun Sobti.
The series is created by Gunjit Chopra and Sudip Sharma, who previously teamed on hit Prime Video police procedural series “Paatal Lok” (2020), and Diggi Sisodia, co-creator of Zee Studios’ Berlin Series Market Selects series “Brown.” It is directed by Randeep Jha,...
The six-episode Punjabi- and Hindi-language drama bowed July 15 atop the Netflix India chart, where it remains in pole position for a second week. It also placed highly in the streamer’s top 10 charts across much of South Asia and the Middle East.
In the show, when a bridegroom from the U.K. is found dead days before his wedding, two cops must unravel the troubling case as turbulence unfolds in their own lives. The cast is led by Suvinder Vicky, known for Cannes title “The Fourth Direction” and Venice festival title “Milestone,” and Barun Sobti.
The series is created by Gunjit Chopra and Sudip Sharma, who previously teamed on hit Prime Video police procedural series “Paatal Lok” (2020), and Diggi Sisodia, co-creator of Zee Studios’ Berlin Series Market Selects series “Brown.” It is directed by Randeep Jha,...
- 7/25/2023
- by Naman Ramachandran
- Variety Film + TV
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences is expanding its membership.
According to a press release, the organization that hands out Oscars each year at the Academy Awards has extended invitations to join the Academy to 398 artists and executives who have made notable contributions to the motion picture industry.
“The Academy is proud to welcome these artists and professionals into our membership. They represent extraordinary global talent across cinematic disciplines and have made a vital impact on the arts and sciences of motion pictures and on movie fans worldwide,” said Academy CEO Bill Kramer and Academy President Janet Yang in a joint statement.
Read More: The Academy Announces 2024 Oscars Date As Well As Submission Deadline
There are some big names and familiar faces among the invitees, including musicians Taylor Swift and David Byrne, and numerous actors, ranging from Selma Blair to Keke Palmer to “Elvis” Oscar nominee Austin Butler.
According to a press release, the organization that hands out Oscars each year at the Academy Awards has extended invitations to join the Academy to 398 artists and executives who have made notable contributions to the motion picture industry.
“The Academy is proud to welcome these artists and professionals into our membership. They represent extraordinary global talent across cinematic disciplines and have made a vital impact on the arts and sciences of motion pictures and on movie fans worldwide,” said Academy CEO Bill Kramer and Academy President Janet Yang in a joint statement.
Read More: The Academy Announces 2024 Oscars Date As Well As Submission Deadline
There are some big names and familiar faces among the invitees, including musicians Taylor Swift and David Byrne, and numerous actors, ranging from Selma Blair to Keke Palmer to “Elvis” Oscar nominee Austin Butler.
- 6/28/2023
- by Brent Furdyk
- ET Canada
Those who accept will be only additions to Academy’s membership in 2023.
Vicky Krieps, Paul Mescal, Warner Bros Discovery head David Zaslav, Aftersun writer-director Charlotte Wells, She Said director Maria Schrader, and Kerry Condon are among 398 who have been invited to join the Academy.
Some 40% of the 2023 class identify as women, 34% belong to underrepresented ethnic/racial communities, and 52% are from 50 countries and territories outside the United States. There are 76 Oscar nominees including 22 winners among the invitees.
Those who accept the invitations will be the only additions to the Academy’s membership. Should they all accept, the total number of members...
Vicky Krieps, Paul Mescal, Warner Bros Discovery head David Zaslav, Aftersun writer-director Charlotte Wells, She Said director Maria Schrader, and Kerry Condon are among 398 who have been invited to join the Academy.
Some 40% of the 2023 class identify as women, 34% belong to underrepresented ethnic/racial communities, and 52% are from 50 countries and territories outside the United States. There are 76 Oscar nominees including 22 winners among the invitees.
Those who accept the invitations will be the only additions to the Academy’s membership. Should they all accept, the total number of members...
- 6/28/2023
- by Jeremy Kay
- ScreenDaily
“Everything Everywhere All At Once” Oscar winners Ke Huy Quan, Daniel Kwan, and Daniel Scheinert, recent acting nominees Austin Butler, Paul Mescal, and Stephanie Hsu, and bold-face names for the extremely online like Taylor Swift, Abel Tesfaye (a.k.a. The Weeknd), and Warner Bros. Discovery boss David Zaslav were among the 398 people announced as new members of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences on Wednesday.
“The academy is proud to welcome these artists and professionals into our membership. They represent extraordinary global talent across cinematic disciplines and have made a vital impact on the arts and sciences of motion pictures and on movie fans worldwide,” said academy CEO Bill Kramer and academy president Janet Yang in a joint statement.
This year’s class of new members is heavy on 2022 breakouts, like the aforementioned Kwan and Scheinert – invitees in both the directors’ brand and the producers’ branch. In keeping with academy practice,...
“The academy is proud to welcome these artists and professionals into our membership. They represent extraordinary global talent across cinematic disciplines and have made a vital impact on the arts and sciences of motion pictures and on movie fans worldwide,” said academy CEO Bill Kramer and academy president Janet Yang in a joint statement.
This year’s class of new members is heavy on 2022 breakouts, like the aforementioned Kwan and Scheinert – invitees in both the directors’ brand and the producers’ branch. In keeping with academy practice,...
- 6/28/2023
- by Christopher Rosen
- Gold Derby
The Academy has invited 398 artists across cinematic disciplines to join its membership, including Taylor Swift, Keke Palmer and this year’s Best Supporting Actor winner Ke Huy Quan.
“The Academy is proud to welcome these artists and professionals into our membership. They represent extraordinary global talent across cinematic disciplines and have made a vital impact on the arts and sciences of motion pictures and on movie fans worldwide,” said Academy CEO Bill Kramer and Academy President Janet Yang.
Also scoring invitations are actors Selma Blair, Austin Butler, Ram Charan, Kerry Condon, Bill Hader, Nicholas Hoult, Stephanie Hsu, Noémie Merlant, Paul Mescal, Nt Rama Rao Jr. and Paul Reiser, directors Joseph Kosinski, Maria Schrader and Michael Showalter, writers Josh Friedman, Kazuo Ishiguro and Charlotte Wells.
“Everything Everywhere All at Once” duo The Daniels (Credit: Getty Images)
Eight people were invited to join the Academy by multiple branches and must choose which...
“The Academy is proud to welcome these artists and professionals into our membership. They represent extraordinary global talent across cinematic disciplines and have made a vital impact on the arts and sciences of motion pictures and on movie fans worldwide,” said Academy CEO Bill Kramer and Academy President Janet Yang.
Also scoring invitations are actors Selma Blair, Austin Butler, Ram Charan, Kerry Condon, Bill Hader, Nicholas Hoult, Stephanie Hsu, Noémie Merlant, Paul Mescal, Nt Rama Rao Jr. and Paul Reiser, directors Joseph Kosinski, Maria Schrader and Michael Showalter, writers Josh Friedman, Kazuo Ishiguro and Charlotte Wells.
“Everything Everywhere All at Once” duo The Daniels (Credit: Getty Images)
Eight people were invited to join the Academy by multiple branches and must choose which...
- 6/28/2023
- by Benjamin Lindsay and Libby Hill
- The Wrap
Singer-songwriters Taylor Swift and David Byrne, Warner Bros. Discovery CEO David Zaslav, Netflix chief content officer Bela Bajaria, Everything Everywhere All at Once filmmakers Daniels (Kwan and Scheinert), Nobel Prize-winning writer Kazuo Ishiguro, former SXSW chief Janet Pierson, WME co-chairs Christian Muirhead and Richard Weitz, and actors including Selma Blair, Austin Butler, Bill Hader, Paul Mescal, Nicholas Hoult, Keke Palmer, Ke Huy Quan and Rrr stars Ram Charan and N.T. Rama Rao Jr. are among the 398 artists and executives from around the world who have been invited to join the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences this year, the Oscar-dispensing organization announced Wednesday.
“The Academy is proud to welcome these artists and professionals into our membership,” Academy CEO Bill Kramer and president Janet Yang said in a statement. “They represent extraordinary global talent across cinematic disciplines and have made a vital impact on the arts and sciences of motion...
“The Academy is proud to welcome these artists and professionals into our membership,” Academy CEO Bill Kramer and president Janet Yang said in a statement. “They represent extraordinary global talent across cinematic disciplines and have made a vital impact on the arts and sciences of motion...
- 6/28/2023
- by Scott Feinberg
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has released the names of its newest round of invitees, increasing the number of voting members past 10,000, should everyone accept.
With the addition of the 398 artists and executives that the Academy extended invitations to (totaling one more invite than last year), the Academy now boasts a membership that is 34 percent women, 18 percent from underrepresented ethnic and racial communities, and 20 percent from countries or territories outside of the United States. Though their invites have a rolling deadline, they must accept them and pay dues in order to vote for the Oscars and gain access to benefits like the Academy Screening Room.
Among the list of possible new members are, predictably, many of the filmmakers behind Best Picture winner “Everything Everywhere All at Once,” including Best Supporting Actor winner Ke Huy Quan, Best Supporting Actress nominee Stephanie Hsu, Best Film Editing winner Paul Rogers,...
With the addition of the 398 artists and executives that the Academy extended invitations to (totaling one more invite than last year), the Academy now boasts a membership that is 34 percent women, 18 percent from underrepresented ethnic and racial communities, and 20 percent from countries or territories outside of the United States. Though their invites have a rolling deadline, they must accept them and pay dues in order to vote for the Oscars and gain access to benefits like the Academy Screening Room.
Among the list of possible new members are, predictably, many of the filmmakers behind Best Picture winner “Everything Everywhere All at Once,” including Best Supporting Actor winner Ke Huy Quan, Best Supporting Actress nominee Stephanie Hsu, Best Film Editing winner Paul Rogers,...
- 6/28/2023
- by Marcus Jones
- Indiewire
It’s that time of year again — the break between Cannes and the fall festivals, when the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences makes its membership invitations. The Oscars group said today that it has extended offers to 398 artists and execs — one more than last year — who have distinguished themselves by their contributions to motion pictures.
The list includes actors, directors, writers, producers, musicians, executives, artist reps, publicists and below-the-liners such as casting directors, cinematographers, costume designers, film editors, makeup artists and hairstylists, production designers and sound pros.
“The Academy is proud to welcome these artists and professionals into our membership,” Academy CEO Bill Kramer and Academy President Janet Yang said in a statement. “They represent extraordinary global talent across cinematic disciplines and have made a vital impact on the arts and sciences of motion pictures and on movie fans worldwide.”
As usual, the invitees include newly minted Oscar winners,...
The list includes actors, directors, writers, producers, musicians, executives, artist reps, publicists and below-the-liners such as casting directors, cinematographers, costume designers, film editors, makeup artists and hairstylists, production designers and sound pros.
“The Academy is proud to welcome these artists and professionals into our membership,” Academy CEO Bill Kramer and Academy President Janet Yang said in a statement. “They represent extraordinary global talent across cinematic disciplines and have made a vital impact on the arts and sciences of motion pictures and on movie fans worldwide.”
As usual, the invitees include newly minted Oscar winners,...
- 6/28/2023
- by Erik Pedersen
- Deadline Film + TV
It might be obvious to say, but a film getting nominated for an Oscar doesn’t automatically make it good.
In fact, there have been many deserving movies over the years that were somehow overlooked by the Academy.
It’s easy to assume that certain releases don’t get nominated because they’re not what Oscar voters would usually go for, but there have been some surprises in the past.
For example, pretty much every new superhero film earns a nomination thanks to the technical or makeup categories, while random animated films are acknowledged most likely because of the low number on offer in a certain year.
This means films likem say, DC’s Suicide Squad may get mauled by the critics, but they still gain recognition from the Academy (it went on to win).
This is even more ridiculous when you consider that classics such as Don’t Look Now...
In fact, there have been many deserving movies over the years that were somehow overlooked by the Academy.
It’s easy to assume that certain releases don’t get nominated because they’re not what Oscar voters would usually go for, but there have been some surprises in the past.
For example, pretty much every new superhero film earns a nomination thanks to the technical or makeup categories, while random animated films are acknowledged most likely because of the low number on offer in a certain year.
This means films likem say, DC’s Suicide Squad may get mauled by the critics, but they still gain recognition from the Academy (it went on to win).
This is even more ridiculous when you consider that classics such as Don’t Look Now...
- 3/3/2023
- by Jacob Stolworthy
- The Independent - Film
It might be obvious to say, but a film getting nominated for an Oscar doesn’t automatically make it good.
In fact, there have been many deserving movies over the years that were somehow overlooked by the Academy.
It’s easy to assume that certain releases don’t get nominated because they’re not what Oscar voters would usually go for, but there have been some surprises in the past.
For example, pretty much every new superhero film earns a nomination thanks to the technical or makeup categories, while random animated films are acknowledged most likely because of the low number on offer in a certain year.
This means films likem say, DC’s Suicide Squad may get mauled by the critics, but they still gain recognition from the Academy (it went on to win).
This is even more ridiculous when you consider that classics such as Don’t Look Now...
In fact, there have been many deserving movies over the years that were somehow overlooked by the Academy.
It’s easy to assume that certain releases don’t get nominated because they’re not what Oscar voters would usually go for, but there have been some surprises in the past.
For example, pretty much every new superhero film earns a nomination thanks to the technical or makeup categories, while random animated films are acknowledged most likely because of the low number on offer in a certain year.
This means films likem say, DC’s Suicide Squad may get mauled by the critics, but they still gain recognition from the Academy (it went on to win).
This is even more ridiculous when you consider that classics such as Don’t Look Now...
- 3/3/2023
- by Jacob Stolworthy
- The Independent - Film
For the past month, news in the tabletop space was dominated by the battle between Wizards of the Coast and "Dungeons & Dragons" creators over the Open Game License (or Ogl). That controversy has come and gone (at least for the time being), leaving us space to once more discuss other tabletop news that intersects with popular culture. It doesn't have to be all "Dungeons & Dragons" all the time around these parts! We are equal-opportunity cardboard lovers.
In the latest edition of Cardboard Cinema, we're looking at an update to the much-beloved roleplaying game "Alice Is Missing" and a few movie-inspired RPGs in February's ZineQuest celebrations. We also share distressing news about everyone's favorite board game brawler, and the latest and greatest "Star Wars" game to grace our tables.
Alice Is Missing Gets Bigger
If you've read any tabletop coverage at /Film, you already know we're big fans of "Alice Is Missing,...
In the latest edition of Cardboard Cinema, we're looking at an update to the much-beloved roleplaying game "Alice Is Missing" and a few movie-inspired RPGs in February's ZineQuest celebrations. We also share distressing news about everyone's favorite board game brawler, and the latest and greatest "Star Wars" game to grace our tables.
Alice Is Missing Gets Bigger
If you've read any tabletop coverage at /Film, you already know we're big fans of "Alice Is Missing,...
- 2/24/2023
- by Matthew Monagle
- Slash Film
Recommended New Books on Filmmaking: Bong Joon Ho, Avatar: The Way of Water, Alfred Hitchcock & More
Spring is on the horizon (yay!) but we’re still deep into winter (grr). And that means time for reading. Our latest roundup of noteworthy new books connected to the world of cinema features a typically diverse lineup: Bong Joon Ho, the art of James Cameron’s latest, screwball comedies, Alfred Hitchcock, and––’tis the season––Oscar history.
Bong Joon Ho: Dissident Cinema by Karen Han (Abrams)
In recent years Little White Lies and Abrams have released wonderfully comprehensive, immaculately designed books about Joel and Ethan Coen, Paul Thomas Anderson, David Fincher, and most recently Sofia Coppola. The latest subject, Bong Joon Ho, could not be more deserving of this treatment. Dissident Cinema is written by the ever-astute Karen Han, who shares Bong’s life story while diving into each entry of his filmography. Yes, there is much to be said about Parasite, The Host, Mother, Snowpiercer, Okja, and Memories of Murder.
Bong Joon Ho: Dissident Cinema by Karen Han (Abrams)
In recent years Little White Lies and Abrams have released wonderfully comprehensive, immaculately designed books about Joel and Ethan Coen, Paul Thomas Anderson, David Fincher, and most recently Sofia Coppola. The latest subject, Bong Joon Ho, could not be more deserving of this treatment. Dissident Cinema is written by the ever-astute Karen Han, who shares Bong’s life story while diving into each entry of his filmography. Yes, there is much to be said about Parasite, The Host, Mother, Snowpiercer, Okja, and Memories of Murder.
- 2/15/2023
- by Christopher Schobert
- The Film Stage
Kevin MacDonald Strikes Factual Deal With Workerbee
Oscar-winning director and producer Kevin Macdonald has struck a multi-project creative partnership with the Workerbee Group. Macdonald, whose credits include “One Day in September,” “Touching the Void” and “Marley,” is executive producing a major feature documentary for a streaming platform as the first element of his two-year Workerbee deal. Details are yet to be announced of the film or the other premium factual projects which are expected to include those he directs and executive produces.
Manchester-based Workerbee recent credits including “Janet” for Lifetime and A&e, “Bruno Vs Tyson” (Sky), “The Bridge” for Channel 4 and HBO Max, “Peter Crouch: Save Our Beautiful Game” for Discovery and “Idris Elba’s Fight School” for BBC Two.
The company has recently been revamped into a clear films and formats divisional structure. The Macdonald deal is the first creative partnership to be announced by the newly formed Workerbee Group,...
Oscar-winning director and producer Kevin Macdonald has struck a multi-project creative partnership with the Workerbee Group. Macdonald, whose credits include “One Day in September,” “Touching the Void” and “Marley,” is executive producing a major feature documentary for a streaming platform as the first element of his two-year Workerbee deal. Details are yet to be announced of the film or the other premium factual projects which are expected to include those he directs and executive produces.
Manchester-based Workerbee recent credits including “Janet” for Lifetime and A&e, “Bruno Vs Tyson” (Sky), “The Bridge” for Channel 4 and HBO Max, “Peter Crouch: Save Our Beautiful Game” for Discovery and “Idris Elba’s Fight School” for BBC Two.
The company has recently been revamped into a clear films and formats divisional structure. The Macdonald deal is the first creative partnership to be announced by the newly formed Workerbee Group,...
- 2/8/2023
- by Patrick Frater
- Variety Film + TV
What happened to Yoo Ha? Once he was a reliable and fruitful filmmaker present across the genre spectre, from the contemporary romance “Marriage Is a Crazy Thing” (2002) to the period gangster epic “Gangnam Blues” (2015). In that vein, his newest movie “Pipeline” shows some of its helmer’s mastery, but it will certainly end up in the bottom half of his filmography, mostly due to the very limited budget.
“Pipeline” is available from Echelon Studios
Drill-Bit is a drilling expert whose skills and tools come handy in the shady operation of stealing oil directly from the pipelines. For his newest mission, he is hired by an investor Geon-woo with a daring plan to steal large amounts of oil from two master pipelines that almost intersect at one place. His new crew consists of a welder nicknamed The Welder (Eum Moon-suk), the digger nicknamed Big Shovel (Tae Hang-ho), Chief Na who...
“Pipeline” is available from Echelon Studios
Drill-Bit is a drilling expert whose skills and tools come handy in the shady operation of stealing oil directly from the pipelines. For his newest mission, he is hired by an investor Geon-woo with a daring plan to steal large amounts of oil from two master pipelines that almost intersect at one place. His new crew consists of a welder nicknamed The Welder (Eum Moon-suk), the digger nicknamed Big Shovel (Tae Hang-ho), Chief Na who...
- 1/5/2023
- by Marko Stojiljković
- AsianMoviePulse
Song Kang-ho is easily one of the most globally recognized Korean actors working today. His lead role in the Academy Award-winning 2019 film "Parasite" earned him international acclaim, but I have been a fan of his for years. He often plays likable characters that make questionable choices, as he did in Bong Joon-ho's earlier films, "Memories of Murder" and "The Host." And thankfully, he also steals the show in Hirokazu Kore-eda's newest film, "Broker."
His character, Sang-hyun, runs a dry-cleaning service by day and brokers illegal adoptions for abandoned children by night. Being a broker earns him and his partner, Dong-soo (Gang Dong-won), a small fee. At the same time, the pair try to make sure the babies end up in good homes and provide them with a better life than they would have in an orphanage. Sang-hyun also struggles with parenting his own daughter, who lives with her mother.
His character, Sang-hyun, runs a dry-cleaning service by day and brokers illegal adoptions for abandoned children by night. Being a broker earns him and his partner, Dong-soo (Gang Dong-won), a small fee. At the same time, the pair try to make sure the babies end up in good homes and provide them with a better life than they would have in an orphanage. Sang-hyun also struggles with parenting his own daughter, who lives with her mother.
- 12/28/2022
- by Shae Sennett
- Slash Film
Click here to read the full article.
The global television scene offered up an embarrassment of riches this year, with a seemingly endless supply of phenomenal dramas, comedies and crime procedurals as good as, or often better, than the best on offer Stateside.
The international expansion of Netflix, Amazon, AppleTV+ and others has meant many global talents now have the financial means to make their dream originals, while series from more traditional local broadcasters have access to global platforms, and a worldwide audience, on a scale never seen before.
Ahead of the winter break, The Hollywood Reporter continues its holiday tradition in picking out the best international series to binge-watch over the holiday season. Our favorite 2022 series stocking stuffers include a feminist spy thriller from Germany, a Korean take on a British romantic classic and a deep dive into the French hip-hop scene of the 1980s. (Check out our list...
The global television scene offered up an embarrassment of riches this year, with a seemingly endless supply of phenomenal dramas, comedies and crime procedurals as good as, or often better, than the best on offer Stateside.
The international expansion of Netflix, Amazon, AppleTV+ and others has meant many global talents now have the financial means to make their dream originals, while series from more traditional local broadcasters have access to global platforms, and a worldwide audience, on a scale never seen before.
Ahead of the winter break, The Hollywood Reporter continues its holiday tradition in picking out the best international series to binge-watch over the holiday season. Our favorite 2022 series stocking stuffers include a feminist spy thriller from Germany, a Korean take on a British romantic classic and a deep dive into the French hip-hop scene of the 1980s. (Check out our list...
- 12/23/2022
- by Scott Roxborough
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
A documentary about Oscar-winning Korean film director Bong Joon Ho is underway and will launch on Netflix next year.
Titled ‘Yellow Door: Looking for Director Bong’s Unreleased Short Film’, the document is being directed by Lee Hyuk-rae and produced through Broccoli Pictures, reports ‘Variety’.
The film will trace the quest for Bong’s unreleased first short film ‘Looking for Paradise’, made during his university days. Besides shedding light on the creative origins of a great artist, the documentary will also illuminate an era when young cinephiles emerged in South Korea.
The mid-1990s was a time of febrile change in the arts in South Korea. There was a surge of creativity that followed decades of repressive military rule.
Rule breakers and innovators at the time included the Busan International Film Festival, which definitely started showing banned Japanese movies; Cj Entertainment, which kicked off the industrialisation of the Korean film...
Titled ‘Yellow Door: Looking for Director Bong’s Unreleased Short Film’, the document is being directed by Lee Hyuk-rae and produced through Broccoli Pictures, reports ‘Variety’.
The film will trace the quest for Bong’s unreleased first short film ‘Looking for Paradise’, made during his university days. Besides shedding light on the creative origins of a great artist, the documentary will also illuminate an era when young cinephiles emerged in South Korea.
The mid-1990s was a time of febrile change in the arts in South Korea. There was a surge of creativity that followed decades of repressive military rule.
Rule breakers and innovators at the time included the Busan International Film Festival, which definitely started showing banned Japanese movies; Cj Entertainment, which kicked off the industrialisation of the Korean film...
- 12/2/2022
- by Glamsham Bureau
- GlamSham
A documentary about Oscar-winning Korean film director Bong Joon Ho is underway and will launch on Netflix next year.
Titled “Yellow Door: Looking for Director Bong’s Unreleased Short Film,” the doc is being directed by Lee Hyuk-rae and produced through Broccoli Pictures.
The film will trace the quest for Bong’s unreleased first short film “Looking for Paradise,” made during his university days. Besides shedding light on the creative origins of a great artist, the documentary will also illuminate an era when young cinephiles emerged in South Korea.
The mid-1990s was a time of febrile change in the arts in South Korea. There was a surge of creativity that followed decades of repressive military rule. Rule breakers and innovators at the time included the Busan International Film Festival, which defiantly started showing banned Japanese movies; Cj Entertainment, which kicked off the industrialization of the Korean film industry through...
Titled “Yellow Door: Looking for Director Bong’s Unreleased Short Film,” the doc is being directed by Lee Hyuk-rae and produced through Broccoli Pictures.
The film will trace the quest for Bong’s unreleased first short film “Looking for Paradise,” made during his university days. Besides shedding light on the creative origins of a great artist, the documentary will also illuminate an era when young cinephiles emerged in South Korea.
The mid-1990s was a time of febrile change in the arts in South Korea. There was a surge of creativity that followed decades of repressive military rule. Rule breakers and innovators at the time included the Busan International Film Festival, which defiantly started showing banned Japanese movies; Cj Entertainment, which kicked off the industrialization of the Korean film industry through...
- 12/2/2022
- by Patrick Frater
- Variety Film + TV
Japan may have snubbed Palme d’Or-winning, Oscar-nominated director Kore-eda Hirokazu’s new film “Broker” for the Best International Feature Academy Award submission, but the family drama starring Korean actor Song Kang-ho remains one of the most acclaimed films of the year. The regular Bong Joon Ho collaborator, from “Memories of Murder” to “Parasite,” won Best Actor at the Cannes Film Festival for his portrayal of a laundry operator who traffics children on the black market. Watch the trailer below.
The film follows two brokers who sell orphaned infants, circumventing the bureaucracy of legal adoption, to affluent couples who can’t have children of their own. After an infant’s mother surprises the duo by returning to ensure her child finds a good home, the three embark on a journey to find the right couple, building an unlikely family of their own.
Japan wound up submitting “Plan 75” as its ambassador...
The film follows two brokers who sell orphaned infants, circumventing the bureaucracy of legal adoption, to affluent couples who can’t have children of their own. After an infant’s mother surprises the duo by returning to ensure her child finds a good home, the three embark on a journey to find the right couple, building an unlikely family of their own.
Japan wound up submitting “Plan 75” as its ambassador...
- 12/1/2022
- by Ryan Lattanzio
- Indiewire
The following is an excerpt from screenwriter and critic Karen Han’s new book “Bong Joon Ho: Dissident Cinema,” now available from Abrams Books. The book includes a survey of Bong’s work, ranging from “Barking Dogs Never Bite” to “Parasite,” and this excerpt comes from a chapter on his film “Memories of Murder” from 2003.
Bong has said that as he began storyboarding “Memories of Murder,” it became clear that the film was a “road movie for faces,” beginning with Doo-man’s claims about being able to read a suspect by face alone. “The actors’ faces and how we shot them inevitably became a very important aspect of the film.” Park Hae-il, for instance, was cast for his “innocent face with his doe eyes,” which Bong believed would only make the idea that he might be a killer even scarier.
The face upon which the camera focuses the most frequently is that of Song Kang-ho.
Bong has said that as he began storyboarding “Memories of Murder,” it became clear that the film was a “road movie for faces,” beginning with Doo-man’s claims about being able to read a suspect by face alone. “The actors’ faces and how we shot them inevitably became a very important aspect of the film.” Park Hae-il, for instance, was cast for his “innocent face with his doe eyes,” which Bong believed would only make the idea that he might be a killer even scarier.
The face upon which the camera focuses the most frequently is that of Song Kang-ho.
- 11/30/2022
- by Karen Han
- Indiewire
Click here to read the full article.
Lee Sang-yong’s 2022 feature, The Roundup, had many twists and turns before it was finally released in South Korean theaters in May. The production originally began in 2019, but filming was temporarily postponed, as location permits did not come through in Vietnam, where the story is mostly set, because of the pandemic. The industry’s old saying that “no sequel is better than its prequel” put even more pressure on Lee, who was an assistant director on the film’s precursor, 2017’s The Outlaws, about an old-school detective taking down a ruthless gangster in Seoul’s Chinatown.
“I really didn’t think the movie would turn out this well,” says Lee, whose feature became a smash hit, beating its predecessor at the box office. “I’m just stunned and grateful. It’s the result of the hard work of many actors and staff for over three years,...
Lee Sang-yong’s 2022 feature, The Roundup, had many twists and turns before it was finally released in South Korean theaters in May. The production originally began in 2019, but filming was temporarily postponed, as location permits did not come through in Vietnam, where the story is mostly set, because of the pandemic. The industry’s old saying that “no sequel is better than its prequel” put even more pressure on Lee, who was an assistant director on the film’s precursor, 2017’s The Outlaws, about an old-school detective taking down a ruthless gangster in Seoul’s Chinatown.
“I really didn’t think the movie would turn out this well,” says Lee, whose feature became a smash hit, beating its predecessor at the box office. “I’m just stunned and grateful. It’s the result of the hard work of many actors and staff for over three years,...
- 11/2/2022
- by Soomee Park
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
There's so much to watch on Netflix that it's tough to know where to start. Curious viewers looking for science fiction genre movies might turn towards established classics like "Blade Runner." They might return to the best superhero movies of all time, "Spider-Man" and "Spider-Man 2." Perhaps they might even bust out "End of Evangelion," the shocking movie climax of the "Neon Genesis Evangelion" television series, just to feel something.
But there's more available on Netflix than just that. The following films include anti-capitalist fables, groundbreaking animated movies, and a Korean science fiction film that overcame the odds to find success. They represent only a taste of Netflix's original offerings in the genre. Rather than blindly follow the streamer's algorithm, sci-fi fans may be better served by bravely plunging into the catalog in search of the unexpected -- or letting us curate some selections for you. You may be surprised...
But there's more available on Netflix than just that. The following films include anti-capitalist fables, groundbreaking animated movies, and a Korean science fiction film that overcame the odds to find success. They represent only a taste of Netflix's original offerings in the genre. Rather than blindly follow the streamer's algorithm, sci-fi fans may be better served by bravely plunging into the catalog in search of the unexpected -- or letting us curate some selections for you. You may be surprised...
- 9/20/2022
- by Adam Wescott
- Slash Film
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