Lee Byung-hun in a scene from “No Different Alternative” / Courtesy of CJ ENM
Park Chan-wook’s newest movie, “No Different Alternative,” moved a step nearer to the Academy Awards after incomes a spot on the shortlist for greatest worldwide characteristic movie on the 98th Oscars, reinforcing Korean cinema’s continued presence on the worldwide awards stage.
The Academy of Movement Image Arts and Sciences introduced shortlists in 12 classes Tuesday (native time). Within the worldwide characteristic movie class, “No Different Alternative” was included amongst 15 titles chosen from submissions by 86 international locations and areas.
The Korean entry faces a powerful worldwide lineup that features Jafar Panahi’s “It Was Simply an Accident” from France, Joachim Trier’s “Sentimental Worth” from Norway, Kleber Mendonça Filho’s “Secret Agent” from Brazil, Lee Sang-il’s “Kokuho” from Japan and Oliver Laxe’s “Sirat” from Spain.
“No Different Alternative” follows a middle-aged man who’s abruptly laid off after spending 25 years on the identical firm. As he struggles to regain stability, he resorts to excessive measures to remove rivals competing for the job he believes is his final likelihood. The movie blends darkish humor with stress, incomes reward for its sharp fashion and its unflinching take a look at insecurity and loss beneath the thriller framework.
The movie already drew worldwide consideration earlier within the awards season. It obtained Golden Globe nominations for Greatest Movement Image — Musical or Comedy and Greatest Non-English Language Movement Image. Lead actor Lee Byung-hun additionally earned a nomination for Greatest Efficiency by a Male Actor in a Movement Image — Musical or Comedy.
Korean tradition additionally appeared in one other Oscars class. “Golden,” a tune from Netflix’s hit animated movie “KPop Demon Hunters,” made the shortlist for Greatest Unique Track, highlighting Korea’s rising presence throughout a number of fields of world leisure.
The ultimate Oscar nominations will probably be introduced Jan. 22, with the awards ceremony scheduled for March 15.
