The 29th Busan International Film Festival (BIFF) has announced its lineup for the ‘Korean Cinema Today – Special Premiere’ section, featuring five films, and the ‘On Screen’ section, which includes six drama series.

The ‘Korean Cinema Today – Special Premiere’ section highlights and debuts the newest and most significant contemporary Korean commercial films, recognized for their wide appeal and importance. This year, the section showcases five films, four of which are world premieres that are sure to capture the audience’s interest.

“A Girl with Closed Eyes” & “A Normal Family”

The film A Girl with Closed Eyes (2024) is a thriller that explores the complex and intense relationship between a criminal and a detective, brought together again by the murder of a bestselling author. Starring Kim Minha, known globally for Pachinko (2022), and Moon Choi from Anarchist from Colony (2017), this film promises gripping drama. Another notable film, A Normal Family (2023), directed by Hur Jin-ho, is a suspense thriller that follows four individuals whose lives unravel after witnessing a crime involving their children on CCTV. Featuring performances by Sul Kyung-gu, Jang Dong-gun, Kim Hee-ae, and Claudia Kim, the film delivers high tension throughout.

“Bogota: City of the Lost”, “DIRTY MONEY”, and “Hear Me: Our Summer”

Set in Bogotá, Colombia, Bogota: City of the Lost (2024) tells the story of Korean immigrants driven to smuggling in a city of last chances. The film stars Song Joong-ki and a diverse cast, including Lee Hee-jun, Kwon Hae-hyo, Park Ji-hwan, Cho Hyun-chul, and Kim Jong-soo, and has already generated significant anticipation. DIRTY MONEY (2024) marks the directorial debut of Kim Minsu, known for writing The Merciless (2017). This crime drama follows two corrupt detectives chasing a bigger score, featuring Jung Woo, Kim Dae-myung, and Park Byeong-eun. Hear Me: Our Summer (2024), a remake of the Taiwanese film Hear Me (2009), is also drawing attention. This warm and touching story stars Hong Kyung, Roh Yoon-seo, and rising star Kim Min-ju, whose performances are building a strong reputation.

The ‘On Screen’ section aims to reflect the expanding trends and values of cinema by previewing the most eagerly awaited drama series. This year, it includes four Korean productions and two international ones, all making their global premieres.

“Beyond Goodbye” & “Born for the Spotlight”

Beyond Goodbye (2024) is a melodrama starring Arimura Kasumi and Sakaguchi Kentaro. It tells the story of a man who receives the heart of a deceased boyfriend and a woman drawn to him, enriched by detailed storytelling that adds depth to this Japanese drama. Born for the Spotlight (2024), directed by renowned Taiwanese actor, writer, and director Yen Yi-wen, explores the lives of women in the entertainment industry as they chase their dreams and passions. The series is filled with comedic and dramatic tension, highlighting the characters’ strong bonds and ambition.

“Dongjae, the Good or the Bastard” & “Gangnam B–Side”

Dongjae, the Good or the Bastard (2024) is a spin-off of the acclaimed drama Stranger (2017), featuring Lee Jun-hyuk and Park Sung-woong. It follows the quirky prosecutor Dongjae as new cases unfold with urgency. Gangnam B–Side (2023) is a crime drama that explores the darker side of Gangnam, revolving around a missing person case that promises to keep viewers engaged. Starring Jo Woojin, Ji Changwook, Ha Younkyoung, and Kim Hyungseo, the series offers intense performances and compelling character development.

“Hellbound Season 2” & “Way Back Love”

Hellbound Season 2 (2024) is the highly anticipated sequel to Hellbound Season 1 (2021), which gained attention for its controversial themes and dystopian setting. Director Yeon Sang-ho and writer Choi Gyu-seok return to create an even more intense continuation of the series. Way Back Love (2024) is a teenage fantasy romance about a protagonist who reconnects with her ex-boyfriend, now a grim reaper, bringing new hope into her life. Starring Gong Myoung and Kim Minha, this series offers a fresh and enjoyable viewing experience.

The 29th Busan International Film Festival will take place over ten days, from October 2 (Wednesday) to October 11 (Friday), near the Busan Cinema Center, showcasing contemporary films and drama series from Korea and around the world.

Featured image courtesy of Busan International Film Festival

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