The Netflix film 'Possible Love,' competing at the 83rd Venice International Film Festival, made its world premiere to a six-minute standing ovation and widespread acclaim from international media.
On September 6, at the Sala Grande theater on the Lido in Venice, the official screening of 'Possible Love' took place. As the 164-minute film concluded and the credits rolled, the audience erupted into enthusiastic applause and cheers for approximately six minutes.
According to reports from U.S. entertainment outlet Variety and others, director Lee Chang-dong and the cast embraced each other, sharing the emotional moment. Notably, actors Sol Kyung-gu and Jo In-sung were seen wiping away tears, while Jeon Do-yeon and Jo Yeo-jeong responded with bright smiles, leaving a lasting impression. The applause continued for six minutes before the organizers prompted the audience to exit.
The red carpet event prior to the screening showcased the high interest in the film. Dressed in coordinated black-and-white outfits, director Lee and the four lead actors were met with a flurry of camera flashes from the gathered international press. The actors engaged with fans, signing autographs and providing a warm fan experience.
'Possible Love' is Lee's first film in eight years since 'Burning' in 2018. The narrative intertwines the lives of Ho-seok, a factory worker who loses his job due to mass layoffs, and his wife Mi-ok, alongside Ye-ji, who aims to document the harsh realities of factory workers, and her wealthy husband Sang-woo.
In a preceding press conference, Lee explained his directorial intent, stating, "The film poses the question of whether cinema can still connect people in the fundamentally changing landscape of human relationships post-COVID-19."
Following its world premiere, international media praised the film, positioning it as a strong contender for the Golden Lion award. U.S. outlet Vulture posed the question, "Could this be the best film at this year's Venice Film Festival?" and described it as a timeless work exploring class, desire, and freedom.
The Guardian awarded the film four out of five stars, highlighting its "delicate balance, beautiful performances, and intellectual richness," while Time called it a "sensitive drama about love and longing in uncertain times." Deadline commended the perfect casting and ensemble performance, stating that the four lead actors fully realized the director's vision.
'Possible Love' is the first Korean film from Netflix to compete at one of the world's top three film festivals. Following its debut in Venice, it has been invited to prestigious global film festivals in Toronto, New York, and London. Additionally, it has been selected as South Korea's entry for the International Feature Film category at the 99th Academy Awards, signaling a strong Oscar campaign.
Meanwhile, 'Possible Love' will have an early release in select theaters in South Korea on September 23, followed by a theatrical release in the U.S. on October 23, and will be available to global audiences on Netflix starting November 6.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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