The dark thriller "No Other Choice" claimed the coveted Best Film award at the 46th Blue Dragon Film Awards ceremony held on Wednesday in Seoul. The film's success was further cemented when renowned director Park Chan-wook won Best Director, while lead actress Son Ye-jin took home the Best Actress trophy for her compelling performance.
Based on Donald E. Westlake's 1997 satirical thriller novel "The Ax," the film 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 employment. The adaptation explores themes of economic desperation and the lengths to which ordinary people will go when pushed to their limits.
The evening marked a significant milestone for director Park Chan-wook, as this victory represents his fourth win in the Best Director category at the prestigious film festival. Adding to the film's success, Lee Sung-min earned the Best Supporting Actor award for his memorable performance as a rival to the story's protagonist, showcasing the depth of talent within the production.
In other major categories, Hyun Bin secured the Best Actor award for his powerful portrayal of independence fighter Ahn Jung-geun, who lived from 1879 to 1910, in the historical period drama "Harbin." His performance brought to life one of Korea's most celebrated historical figures with remarkable authenticity and emotional depth.
Park Ji-hyeon captured the Best Supporting Actress honor for her role as Mi-joo in the erotic thriller "Hidden Face." She portrayed a mysterious cellist who becomes entangled in a complex and dangerous relationship with her friend's fiancé, delivering a performance that captivated both audiences and critics alike.
The ceremony also celebrated 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 played a man who becomes involved with a neighborhood woman who transforms into a completely different person during nighttime hours. Meanwhile, Kim Do-yeon earned the Best New Actress award for her comedic performance in "Idiot Girls and School Ghost: School Anniversary."
The Blue Dragon Film Awards holds a distinguished position as one of South Korea's most prestigious film honors. Originally established in 1963, the awards faced a temporary discontinuation in 1973 before making a triumphant return in 1990. Since its revival, the ceremony has been held annually, continuing to recognize and celebrate excellence in Korean cinema while honoring both established veterans and promising newcomers in the film industry.
