Park Chan-wook's 'The Rejection', Premieres to Raving Reviews at Busan Film Festival

Park Chan-wook's highly anticipated film, 'The Rejection' (original title: 'Eojjeolsugabeopda'), which was an official selection in the competition at the 82nd Venice International Film Festival and the opening film for the 30th Busan International Film Festival (BIFF), has completed its first official screening in Korea at BIFF, receiving an overwhelming wave of critical acclaim.

'The Rejection' tells the story of 'Mansu' (played by Lee Byung-hun), a white-collar worker who felt his life was complete, only to be abruptly fired. The film follows his personal war to get back on his feet, protect his wife and two children, and secure the home he worked so hard to afford.

The film successfully opened the festival on September 17th with its opening ceremony screening at the 30th Busan International Film Festival, where it garnered enthusiastic responses from the audience. Director Park Chan-wook, along with lead actors Lee Byung-hun, Son Ye-jin, Park Hee-soon, Lee Sung-min, and Yum Hye-ran, were present, marking a spectacular start to the festival with the press conference and the Asian premiere.

From the moment the film began, the synergy of its diverse characters and the director's signature, irreplaceable mise-en-scène instantly captivated the audience. The narrative, skillfully oscillating between tension and release, coupled with Park Chan-wook's characteristic black comedy, enthralled viewers.

Following the screening, a torrent of positive reviews poured in. Audiences praised the film's ability to resonate across generations. Comments included, "Park Chan-wook's sophisticated humor and fun, and a top-tier cinematic experience" (Watcha Pedia_P Bong****), and "It explores deep-seated societal issues with witty, sharp insight and humor" (Watcha Pedia_Noto****).

Furthermore, the actors' compelling performances were widely lauded. One review stated, "A display of acting prowess by a gathering of acting masters" (Watcha Pedia_Gomk****), while another highlighted, "Now I understand why they call him Lee Byung-hun. He becomes a different person in every work" (X_Oh****). Another commenter added, "It's the kind of acting Lee Byung-hun does best. Son Ye-jin was also so powerful, and Park Hee-soon, Lee Sung-min, and Yum Hye-ran were perfectly in character!" (Instagram_gn****).

Audiences also expressed their admiration for the production's high quality, noting, "Applause for Director Park Chan-wook's direction" (Watcha Pedia_Kwon Sa****) and "The visuals are beyond words, and the music's immersion is amazing. I want to see it again in Dolby" (Watcha Pedia_Hu****). Others remarked, "A unique story once again from Director Park Chan-wook! His signature mise-en-scène is hidden throughout the tense narrative!" (Watcha Pedia_no****).

Following its Asian premiere at the Busan International Film Festival, 'The Rejection' has solidified its position as a highly anticipated film set to captivate the box office this autumn. With its ensemble cast of trusted actors, dramatic storyline, beautiful mise-en-scène, solid direction, and added black comedy, Park Chan-wook's new film is scheduled for release on September 24th.

In 'The Rejection', Lee Byung-hun portrays 'Mansu', an ordinary office worker who faces an unexpected layoff, delving into the character's realistic struggles and emotional journey. His profound acting is expected to significantly enhance the film's immersion. Having already proven his versatility across various genres, anticipation is high to see what kind of iconic character Lee Byung-hun will create in this new role.