[K-Film] Park Chan-wook's new thriller to open Busan film fest next month

A scene from director Park Chan-wooks film No Other Choice Courtesy of CJ ENM — Actor Lee Byung-hun is seen in a scene from director Park Chan-wook's film "No Other Choice." Courtesy of CJ ENM

SEOUL, August 4 (AJP) - Award-winning director Park Chan-wook's latest film will open this year's Busan International Film Festival (BIFF), which is slated to be held in the southern port city next month.

According to organizers of the annual film fest on Monday, "No Other Choice" starring Lee Byung-hun and Son Ye-jin has been chosen as the curtain-raiser for BIFF, which kicks off its 10-day run on Sept. 17, with Lee set to host the festival's opening ceremony.

The thriller, based on American writer Donald E. Westlake's novel "The Ax," revolves around a man who believes he has achieved everything in life until he is suddenly laid off and struggles to find a new job to support his family.

Park's 12th feature has also been invited to compete at this year's Venice International Film Festival, which runs from Aug. 27 to Sept. 9.

Meanwhile, more than 240 films will be screened during BIFF, which marks its 30th anniversary this year, with around 14 films competing for the best Asian film award. The top prize winner will bring the festival to a close on Sept. 26.

Kim Hee-su khs@ajunews.com