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Park Chan-wook's 'No Other Choice' Thrives in South Korea

12/28/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Park Chan-wook, South Korean director, spent 12 years seeking Hollywood funding for No Other Choice, based on Donald E. Westlake’s The Ax.
The story centers on a corporate manager who becomes a murderer, reflecting capitalism.
He produced the film in South Korea, reuniting with Lee Byung Hun.
No Other Choice became a box-office success in South Korea, earning three Golden Globe nominations and an Oscar shortlist for best international feature.

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Story summary

Park Chan-wook, South Korean director, spent 12 years seeking Hollywood funding for No Other Choice, based on Donald E. Westlake’s The Ax.
The story centers on a corporate manager who becomes a murderer, reflecting capitalism.
He produced the film in South Korea, reuniting with Lee Byung Hun.
No Other Choice became a box-office success in South Korea, earning three Golden Globe nominations and an Oscar shortlist for best international feature.