No Other Choice marks the long-awaited reunion of director Park Chan-wook and actor Lee Byung-hun, who previously worked together on Joint Security Area and Three... Extremes. The film also features Lee and Son Ye-jin’s first on-screen pairing, alongside an ensemble cast that includes Park Hee-soon, Lee Sung-min, Yeom Hye-ran, Cha Seung-won, and Yoo Yeon-seok, fueling anticipation for its release.
Lee stars as Man-soo, a man grappling with life after being laid off from the paper company where he worked for 25 years. Son Ye-jin plays Mi-ri, his wife, who takes the reins to support their family after his sudden unemployment. Early stills from the film showcase the powerful chemistry between the two leads, hinting at the deeply transformative performances they bring to their roles.
Filming began on Aug. 17 last year and wrapped after 85 sessions on Jan. 15. Reflecting on the journey, Director Park shared, “It’s been about 17 years since I first started writing the screenplay for this film. Finally, completing production on a project I’ve been so passionate about is incredibly moving. I’m grateful everything went smoothly, and I’m now focusing on post-production to deliver a film we can all be proud of.”
Lee Byung-hun described the experience of working with Park as one of collaboration and creativity. “The time we spent discussing ideas, like old friends, will stay with me for a long time. Those conversations sparked new perspectives and added depth to the film. I always look forward to seeing the final cut, but this time, my excitement is on another level.”
Son Ye-jin echoed the sentiment, saying, “I can’t believe how quickly the time flew by. As a longtime admirer of Director Park and Lee Byung-hun, it was an honor to be part of this project. Watching everything come together, I felt we were creating something truly special. I can’t wait to share it with audiences soon.”
No Other Choice tells the story of a man whose life is turned upside down when he is abruptly laid off. Determined to look after his wife, two children, and the home they worked so hard to build, he sets out to reclaim his sense of purpose. Directed by Park Chan-wook, known for Decision to Leave, The Handmaiden, Sympathy for Lady Vengeance, and Oldboy, the film features an outstanding cast, promising an unforgettable cinematic experience.
