Sci-Fi Thriller 'Hope' Lands September Release

Na Hong-jin's new sci-fi feature, 'Hope,' is slated for a U.S. theatrical release on September 9. The film garnered significant attention at the Cannes Film Festival, where it premiered to a six-minute standing ovation, though critical reception was notably divided. Some critics hailed it as an exceptional genre film, praising its pacing and direction.

The story is set in Hope Harbor, a fictional town near the Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ). It follows a police chief and officer as they hunt a mysterious creature plaguing the village. A group of hunters also tracks the beast, only to fall prey themselves. The film explores human conflict escalating to cosmic tragedy.

'Hope' is Na's first feature film in approximately a decade, following acclaimed titles like 'The Wailing.' The film boasts a Korean ensemble cast, including Hwang Jung-min and Hoyeon, alongside notable Hollywood actors such as Michael Fassbender and Alicia Vikander in supporting roles. The cinematographer is Hong Kyung-pyo, known for his work on 'Parasite.'

This film is envisioned as the start of a potential franchise. It has achieved record presales in approximately 200 territories, indicating strong international distribution interest. Neon is handling North America, the U.K., and Australia, with other distributors securing rights for various global regions. A Korean release is scheduled for this summer, preceding the U.S. debut.