The film 'Nameless' has maintained its position as the number one independent art film at the Korean box office for two consecutive weeks since its release, continuing to draw audiences amidst foreign blockbusters and mainstream Korean movies.
According to the Korean Film Council's integrated computer network for cinema tickets, 'Nameless' ranked first in the independent art film box office and eighth in the overall box office on the 6th. As of the 6th, it has attracted a total of 49,185 viewers, making it almost certain to surpass 50,000 viewers soon.
This pace of audience growth is similar to the 2019 film 'A Job Who Is Near Us', which held the top spot in the independent art film category for three consecutive weeks and ultimately drew an audience of 110,000. This sets the expectation that 'Nameless' might also reach the milestone of 100,000 viewers.
'Nameless' delves into the story of anonymous missionaries who came to Korea during the dark days of the Japanese occupation, seeking to spread the gospel amidst suffering. The film highlights the lives and dedication of Norimatsu Masayasu (1863-1921), the first Protestant missionary to Korea after the assassination of Queen Min, and Oda Naraji (1908-1980), who argued that Shinto shrine worship during the Japanese occupation was idolatry and a religious act.
Actor Ha Jung-woo participates as the narrator, guiding us through the lesser-known stories of these two Japanese missionaries. This year is particularly meaningful as it marks the 80th anniversary of Korea's liberation and division, the 60th anniversary of the normalization of Korea-Japan diplomatic relations, the 120th anniversary of the Eulsa Treaty, the 140th anniversary of the introduction of Christianity to Korea, and the 100th anniversary of the Kyoto Korean Church.
The fact that two Japanese missionaries came to Korea during such turbulent times is astonishing in itself, but the film's message of 'genuine hope for peace and reconciliation', along with its meticulous historical accuracy, has resonated deeply not only with the religious community but also with general audiences.
'Nameless' is currently showing in Lotte Cinemas nationwide.
(SBS Entertainment News | Kim Ji-hye)