Bong Joon‑ho praises Na Hong‑jin's action thriller ‘Hope’

Renowned director Bong Joon‑ho attended a press screening of Na Hong‑jin’s new film ‘Hope’ at Megabox COEX on the 15th. He described the movie as “a daring, mad‑filled cinematic storm,” highlighting its relentless pace, “roller‑coaster‑like thrills,” and the “unbroken breath” of its action sequences. Bong also lauded the cinematography by Hong‑kyung Pyo, the pounding score, and the performances of actors such as Hwang Jung‑min, Jo In‑sung and Jung Ho‑yeon, noting that the actors’ eyes complete the high‑octane action.

Na Hong‑jin explained that he aimed to fuse creature effects with classic, handcrafted‑style action, using CG to place a creature within a single frame without relying on extensive VFX. The film, set in the DMZ where a border office chief receives a tiger‑sighting report, has been pre‑sold to more than 200 territories and secured distribution deals with major global companies. The screening sold out immediately after ticket sales opened, reflecting strong audience interest.

‘Hope’ is currently playing in theaters across South Korea.