The dark psychological thriller "No Other Choice" dominated the 46th Blue Dragon Film Awards ceremony on Wednesday, claiming the prestigious Best Film award. Director Park Chan-wook also took home the Best Director trophy, while lead actress Son Ye-jin earned the Best Actress honor for her compelling performance in the critically acclaimed production.
The film, which is based on Donald E. Westlake's 1997 satirical thriller novel "The Ax," tells the gripping story of a desperate father of two children who finds himself waging a personal war for survival after losing his long-term job. The adaptation showcases Park Chan-wook's signature style of psychological tension and dark storytelling that has made him one of South Korea's most celebrated filmmakers.
This victory marks Park Chan-wook's fourth win in the Best Director category at the Blue Dragon Film Awards, cementing his status as one of the festival's most honored directors. The supporting cast also received recognition, with Lee Sung-min winning the Best Supporting Actor award for his powerful portrayal of a character who serves as a rival to the film's protagonist.
Other major awards of the evening went to several notable performances across different genres. Hyun Bin secured the Best Actor award for his portrayal of independence fighter Ahn Jung-geun (1879-1910) in the historical period drama "Harbin." His performance brought to life the story of the Korean patriot who played a significant role in the country's struggle for independence.
Park Ji-hyeon claimed the Best Supporting Actress award for her intriguing role as Mi-joo in the erotic thriller "Hidden Face." She played a mysterious cellist who becomes entangled in a complex and dangerous relationship with her friend's fiancé, delivering a performance that captivated both critics and audiences.
The ceremony also recognized emerging talent in the industry. Ahn Bo-hyun received the Best New Actor award for his role in the romantic comedy "Pretty Crazy," where he portrayed a man who becomes involved with a neighborhood woman who transforms into a completely different person at night. Kim Do-yeon earned the Best New Actress award for her performance in the comedy "Idiot Girls and School Ghost: School Anniversary," showcasing the next generation of Korean acting talent.
The Blue Dragon Film Awards holds a special place in South Korean cinema as one of the country's most prestigious and respected film honors. Originally established in 1963, the awards faced a period of discontinuation in 1973 but made a triumphant return in 1990. Since then, the ceremony has been held annually, consistently recognizing excellence in Korean filmmaking and serving as a barometer for the industry's artistic achievements and trends.
