In a candid revelation that has shocked the Korean entertainment industry, Son Ye-jin recently opened up about her experience working with legendary director Park Chan-wook on “No Other Choice.” Actress Son Ye Jin recently talked about her experience of working with veteran director Park Chan Wook, whose blunt honesty took her aback while filming. The beloved “Crash Landing on You” star shared how Park Chan-wook’s unexpectedly direct criticism led to her dance scenes being completely removed from the highly anticipated thriller.
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Film Overview: Son Ye-jin “No Other Choice” Details
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Movie Title | No Other Choice (어쩔수가없다) |
| Director | Park Chan-wook |
| Lead Cast | Lee Byung-hun, Son Ye-jin |
| Supporting Cast | Park Hee-soon, Lee Sung-min, Yeom Hye-ran, Cha Seung-won |
| Genre | Black Comedy Thriller |
| Based On | Novel “The Ax” by Donald Westlake |
| Venice Premiere | August 29, 2025 |
| Busan Festival | September 17, 2025 |
| Production Status | Completed (January 2025) |
The Shocking Moment: “How Could He Say That?”
Son Ye-jin reveals director Park Chan-wook bluntly criticized her dance skills in No Other Choice, leading to her scenes being cut from the film. During a recent press conference, Son Ye-jin recounted the moment when Park Chan-wook watched her dance sequence and delivered his verdict with characteristic directness.
“I couldn’t believe it when he said that,” Son Ye-jin shared, describing her initial shock at the director’s unfiltered feedback. The actress, known for her graceful performances in romantic dramas, found herself facing criticism in an area she hadn’t expected to be challenged on.
Park Chan-wook’s Directorial Philosophy
Park Chan-wook, the acclaimed director behind masterpieces like “Oldboy,” “The Handmaiden,” and “Decision to Leave,” is renowned for his perfectionist approach and uncompromising artistic vision. Park Chan Wook is a South Korean film director, screenwriter, producer, and former film critic. One of the most acclaimed filmmakers in world cinema.
His Directorial Approach:
- Perfectionist Standards: Known for multiple takes and precise attention to detail
- Honest Feedback: Direct communication style that prioritizes artistic integrity
- Character-Driven Narratives: Focus on authentic performances over commercial appeal
- Visual Excellence: Meticulous crafting of every scene and sequence
Son Ye-jin’s 7-Year Comeback Journey
Son Ye-jin explains why she chose “No Other Choice” as her comeback film after seven years, citing her desire to work with director Park Chan-wook and co-star Lee Byung-hun. This project marks her return to the big screen after focusing on television dramas and family life following her marriage to Hyun Bin.
Why She Chose This Project:
- Dream Collaboration: Long-standing desire to work with Park Chan-wook
- Challenging Role: Opportunity to explore complex character dynamics
- Star Power: Reunion with acclaimed actor Lee Byung-hun
- Artistic Growth: Stepping outside her comfort zone after romantic comedy success
The Story Behind “No Other Choice”
No Other Choice (Korean: 어쩔수가없다; RR: Eojjeolsugaeopda) is an upcoming South Korean black comedy thriller film directed by Park Chan-wook and based on the novel The Ax by Donald Westlake. Starring Lee Byung-hun, Son Ye-jin, Park Hee-soon, Lee Sung-min, Yeom Hye-ran, and Cha Seung-won, it follows Man Soo, a man who engages in a desperate hunt for new employment after being fired from a position he has held for 25 years.
Yoo Man-Soo (Lee Byung-Hun) is married to Mi-Ri (Son Ye-Jin) and they have two children. They own their home that they bought with difficulty. Yoo Man-Soo has been working at a paper company for 25 years. He feels comfortable and satisfied with his life, but he is suddenly fired from his job. He struggles to find a new job to protect his family and his house.
Behind-the-Scenes Chemistry and Camaraderie
Despite the initial shock of Park Chan-wook’s blunt feedback, In the clip, Lee playfully tapped Director Park on the shoulder, saying “Director,” which sent Son Ye-jin, seated beside him, into a fit of laughter. Trying to contain himself, Park Chan-wook covered his mouth before eventually leaving the stage entirely, unable to hold it in. This moment during their press conference shows the genuine camaraderie that developed during filming.
The incident demonstrates how professional relationships in Korean cinema often involve direct communication that ultimately serves the artistic vision, even when it initially feels harsh.
International Recognition and Festival Circuit
The film will have its world premiere in the main competition of the 82nd Venice International Film Festival on 29 August 2025, where it is nominated for the Golden Lion, marking another international success for Park Chan-wook’s filmography.
Festival Journey:
- Venice International Film Festival: World premiere and Golden Lion nomination
- Busan International Film Festival: Opening film for 30th edition
- Awards Season: Expected to be major contender for Korean film awards
Learning and Growth Through Criticism
Son Ye-jin’s graceful handling of Park Chan-wook’s directorial feedback exemplifies the professionalism expected in high-level Korean filmmaking. Rather than taking offense, she viewed it as part of the collaborative process that ultimately serves the film’s artistic integrity.
This experience highlights the difference between commercial filmmaking and auteur cinema, where directors like Park Chan-wook prioritize artistic vision over conventional expectations.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What exactly did Park Chan-wook say to Son Ye-jin about her dance scenes in “No Other Choice”?
A: While Son Ye-jin didn’t reveal the exact words, she disclosed that Park Chan-wook bluntly criticized her dance skills during filming, leading to those scenes being completely cut from the final version of “No Other Choice.” She expressed shock at his direct feedback, saying “How could he say that?” The incident demonstrates Park Chan-wook’s uncompromising artistic standards and direct communication style, which prioritizes the film’s overall quality over individual performances that don’t meet his vision.
Q: Is “No Other Choice” Son Ye-jin’s comeback film and when will it be released?
A: Yes, “No Other Choice” marks Son Ye-jin’s return to the big screen after a 7-year hiatus from movies. The film will have its world premiere at the Venice International Film Festival on August 29, 2025, where it’s nominated for the Golden Lion. It will then open the 30th Busan International Film Festival on September 17, 2025. The black comedy thriller, directed by Park Chan-wook and co-starring Lee Byung-hun, is based on Donald Westlake’s novel “The Ax” and follows a man’s desperate attempts to find employment after losing his job of 25 years.
