The movie The Assassin(s) is being recognized for its artistic value at film festivals around the world.
Invited to the Gala Presentation section of the 51st Toronto International Film Festival, The Assassin(s) kicked off its global journey by selling out all public screenings and being selected as the runner-up for the People's Choice Award.
It subsequently received international attention with consecutive invitations to the 28th Rio de Janeiro International Film Festival, the 37th Singapore International Film Festival, the 21st Paris Korean Film Festival, the 46th Hawaii International Film Festival, and the 29th Philadelphia Film Festival. In particular, it was selected as the opening film for the Paris Korean Film Festival, generating massive buzz by selling out all seats in just three minutes.
Following local screenings, glowing reviews poured in. The Rio de Janeiro International Film Festival praised The Assassin(s) as "a work equipped with thrilling direction and the potential of a box-office hit," while anticipation for the opening film at the Singapore International Film Festival turned into rave reviews after the screening. A festival programmer stated, "We wanted an opening film that possesses an overwhelming scale as a blockbuster, while at the same time retaining the unique sensibility and individuality of an auteur director. Judging by the audience's reaction, I believe The Assassin(s) fully lived up to those expectations."
Aamir Khan, an Indian actor and director beloved by domestic audiences for 3 Idiots and Dangal, also shared a heavy lingering resonance after watching the work. He sent high praise, saying, "I was truly deeply moved. It is a very intense film, and I think the message this movie reminds us of once again is extremely important. I extend my sincere congratulations to the director, producer, and all the production crew who created such a wonderful work."
The Paris Korean Film Festival also heaped praise, stating, "The Assassin(s) is a work that continues the lineage of great crime and journalism thrillers in film history. The breathlessly unfolding investigative drama overwhelms audiences, locking them tightly to their seats throughout the running time and never letting go for even a single moment. The film emphasizes the importance of freedom of expression that the press and the people should enjoy in turbulent times, and leads us back to the past to more sharply illuminate today's reality." David Tredler, chief programmer, remarked, "Director JINHO's The Assassin(s) is a breathlessly immersive investigative thriller that brilliantly weaves together multiple narrative threads. This fast-paced movie, which maintains tension for 2 hours and 10 minutes, will mark a powerful opening for the 21st Paris Korean Film Festival," leaving acclaim for the festival's meaningful opening film.
The Assassin(s) has surpassed its break-even point (approximately 3.3 million viewers) and is on the verge of clearing the 3.5 million mark.
(SBS Entertainment News, Reporter Kim Ji-hye)
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