Director Hur Jin Ho's film The Assassin(s) is attracting attention overseas after its screening at the Paris Korean Film Festival sold out in just three minutes, marking another achievement for the Korean movie.
The film was selected as the opening feature of the 21st Paris Korean Film Festival, where all available tickets were reportedly purchased within three minutes of reservations opening.
The quick sellout comes as The Assassin(s) continues to gain recognition at international film festivals despite facing controversy over its interpretation of Korean history.
Before its Paris screening, the film was invited to the Gala Presentations section of the 51st Toronto International Film Festival, where all public screenings reportedly sold out.
It was also named a runner-up for the International People's Choice Award, adding to its growing international recognition.
Following its appearance in Toronto, The Assassin(s) received invitations to several other film festivals, including the 28th Rio de Janeiro International Film Festival, 37th Singapore International Film Festival, 46th Hawaii International Film Festival, and 29th Philadelphia Film Festival.
The Paris Korean Film Festival also shared a positive assessment of the film, highlighting its storytelling and message about freedom of expression.
The festival described The Assassin(s) as a film that follows the tradition of major crime and journalism thrillers in cinema.
"The intense investigative story keeps audiences on the edge of their seats throughout its running time," the festival said.
Organizers also emphasized the film's broader message.
"The film highlights the importance of freedom of expression for the press and the public during turbulent times, taking us back to the past to examine today's reality more closely," the festival stated.
The positive international reception comes as The Assassin(s) continues to face criticism in South Korea over its fictional interpretation of the 1974 assassination of former First Lady Yuk Young Soo.
Some critics have raised concerns about the film's treatment of historical events, while director Hur Jin Ho has defended his decision to explore questions surrounding the original investigation.
Despite the debate, the film has continued to attract audiences both domestically and internationally.
In South Korea, The Assassin(s) has surpassed 3.3 million admissions, exceeding its estimated break-even point of 3.3 million moviegoers.
With its Paris Korean Film Festival screening selling out in just three minutes and invitations from multiple international festivals, The Assassin(s) continues to draw overseas interest while discussions about its historical interpretation remain ongoing.
