The film "Protector", a first-of-its-kind Hollywood production developed and financed by Korean companies in collaboration with U.S.-based crews―from script to casting, production, and distribution―has confirmed a March release in Korea.
"Protector" follows former U.S. special forces operative Nikki (Milla Jovovich) as she races to rescue her kidnapped daughter, Chloe, within 72 hours. Expect a breathless, no-mercy pursuit packed with high-intensity action.
The project draws attention as a Hollywood feature built from a Korean script personally chosen by Milla Jovovich―who cemented her action star status with "The Fifth Element" and the "Resident Evil" series―and completed with Korean production and investment partners.
As Nikki, Jovovich promises raw, hard-hitting action. In an extreme race against time, she throws everything on the line. The film aims to deliver both chills and cheers through her fierce performance and high-difficulty stunt work.
The newly unveiled launch poster spotlights Nikki’s steely resolve to save her daughter. Her unwavering gaze signals she won’t let the kidnappers slip away, pulling viewers into her desperate fight and raising the question: Can she bring Chloe home safe?
Cuts and bloodstains across her face and neck amplify the film’s taglines―“Relentless 72-Hour Pursuit” and “72 Hours of Breathless Action”―teasing nonstop, edge-of-your-seat sequences.
"Protector" was scripted by Moon Bong-seop, head of production company Aanaxion Studio and a writer known for his work on various Korean films. The stunt team includes 87North Productions―America’s top stunt-driven outfit behind the "John Wick" series, "The Fall Guy," and "Ballerina"―bolstering the film’s action pedigree.
Significantly, this marks a landmark Hollywood production achieved by Korean producers and investors working hand-in-hand with U.S. crews. At the American Film Market in November 2024, the film showcased successful pre-sales promotions to Amazon, Netflix, and buyers in 80 countries worldwide, and it drew strong buzz after its official invitation to the 30th Busan International Film Festival’s Midnight Passion section last year.
"Protector" opens in Korean theaters this March.
(SBS Entertainment News | Kim Ji-hye)