Park Chan-wook's 'Decision to Leave' Mesmerizes Audiences

Acclaimed South Korean filmmaker Park Chan-wook returns to the big screen in 2022 with his latest cinematic masterpiece, "Decision to Leave" (헤어질 결심). The film, a sophisticated and stylish romantic mystery, has already captivated critics and audiences worldwide since its premiere.

The story follows Hae-jun, a meticulous detective, as he investigates the suspicious death of a man in the mountains. He soon finds himself drawn to the deceased's enigmatic wife, Seo-rae, who is a prime suspect but also a source of intense fascination. As their relationship deepens, a complex web of suspicion, desire, and deception unravels, blurring the lines between duty and obsession.

The film premiered in Competition at the 75th Cannes Film Festival in May 2022, where Park won awarded the highly coveted Best Director Award. The film has since been selected for numerous other international film festivals, solidifying its status as one of the year's most significant cinematic achievements. It is also South Korea's official submission for the Best International Feature Film at the upcoming Academy Awards.

The film is now in wide release in theatres internationally.

"Decision to Leave" has been met with widespread critical acclaim, lauded for its intricate plot, stunning cinematography, and the magnetic performances of its lead actors. Critics have praised Park's signature blend of dark humor, psychological depth, and visual artistry, noting the film's ability to keep viewers on the edge of their seats while exploring profound themes of love, loss, and moral ambiguity. It's frequently described as a masterful return to form for the director.

Park Chan-wook is one of South Korea's most celebrated directors, renowned for his distinctive and often provocative cinematic style. His filmography includes international hits like "Oldboy" (2003), which won the Grand Prix at Cannes, "Thirst" (2009), and "The Handmaiden" (2016), all of which have cemented his reputation for crafting visually stunning and psychologically complex thrillers. His prior accolades include numerous awards from prestigious film festivals and critics' associations globally.