Bong Joon Ho is throwing his support behind fellow filmmaker Kim Dae-hwan’s new feature “Homeward Bound,” offering high praise―and confirming he’ll take part in a post-screening Q&A.
The film is a sharply observed family dramedy that digs into the hidden truths and layered emotions within the closest of relationships. It drew laughs, empathy and strong notices when it premiered at the Jeonju International Film Festival in April.
After an early screening, Bong called it “a buoyant family dramedy freshly woven by Kim Dae-hwan, a master at crafting distinctly Korean characters.”
He also spotlighted the ensemble: “Jang Young-nam, Ok Ji-young, Park Ji-il, Park Ji-a, Ryu Kyung-soo and Stephanie Lee channel terrific energy, and under Kim’s touch it all comes together as a pitch-perfect character mosaic.” Bong added, “Park Ji-a’s singular take on a mother is both laugh-out-loud funny and tinged with wonderfully odd pathos.”
Bong continued, “As if secrets exist only to be revealed, these adorably flawed characters slowly show their true colors. Kim braids their stories into a lively panorama and, in the process, expands his already impressive filmography.”
Bong will also join the film’s post-screening Q&A in Korea―known locally as a GV (guest visit)―a move that underscores his confidence in Kim and the cast. The two previously collaborated on “Parasite,” with Bong directing and Kim contributing to script revisions.
For this project, Kim shifts gears from his earlier work, tightening cinematic tension while capturing the delicate layers of relationships and inner lives. Moments where generations, cultures and values intersect are rendered with humor and warmth, creating an emotional through line that invites audiences of all ages. It’s a fresh angle on the universal theme of family.
“Homeward Bound” opens in Korean theaters on Sept. 10.
(SBS Entertainment News | Kim Ji-hye)