In the world of cinema, few directors command the respect and anticipation that Park Chan-wook does. Known for his masterful storytelling and penchant for psychological thrillers, Park is back with a project that has been a lifelong passion: a remake of Costa-Gavras' “The Ax.”
Back in April, Korean media reported that production had begun in Seoul for this highly anticipated film. A poster was released, hinting at the film's title, “Can't Help It.” While the English title remains uncertain, the excitement surrounding the project is palpable.
The cast is a star-studded ensemble, including Cha Seung Won, Park Hee Soon, Yoon Ga Yi, Lee Byung Hun, and Son Ye Jin. Notably, Lee Byung Hun has previously collaborated with Park on “Joint Security Area” (2000) and “Three Extremes” (2004), while Cha Seung Won was part of the iconic “Oldboy.”
The film's synopsis is as gripping as it is dark. Bruno, a middle manager at a paper company, is laid off and optimistically views it as an opportunity. However, after two years of fruitless job searching, desperation sets in. His wife, Marlene, works two jobs to keep them afloat, but their marriage and middle-class lifestyle are crumbling. Bruno concocts a chilling plan to eliminate his fellow job applicants, ensuring he is the only qualified candidate left.
Park Chan-wook, the mastermind behind films like “Oldboy,” “The Handmaiden,” “Decision to Leave,” and “Lady Vengeance,” is known for his thrillers that delve into the psychological and physical violence of his characters. This film, described as his “lifelong passion project,” will be his first outing since the acclaimed “Decision to Leave” in 2022. He also co-created, wrote, and directed the recent HBO limited series “The Sympathizer.”
While an exact release date has not been announced, it is highly anticipated that Park's film will premiere at Cannes 2025. The combination of Park's directorial prowess and the film's intriguing plot promises a cinematic experience that will leave audiences on the edge of their seats.
Stay tuned for more updates on this thrilling project. Park Chan-wook's remake of “The Ax” is shaping up to be a must-watch for any fan of gripping, psychological cinema.
