The countdown has begun for the return of director Choi Dong-hoon, the filmmaker behind hits such as "The Thieves" and "Assassination."
Word has recently spread across the film industry that production on director Choi Dong-hoon's new film, "Sparrow" (working title) is materializing. Director Choi spent an extended period staying outside the capital immersing himself in screenwriting, and the script has now entered its final stages. Discussions regarding investment and distribution are currently underway with one of the nation's four major distributors. Alongside this, casting offers have reportedly been extended to several actors.
The actors being considered for roles are Lee Jung-jae, Mun Kayoung, and Koo Kyo-hwan. Lee Jung-jae previously teamed up with director Choi Dong-hoon on "The Thieves" and "Assassination," delivering two massive hits that each surpassed 10 million moviegoers. If he joins the project, it will mark his first reunion with the director in 11 years since "Assassination." Meanwhile, Mun Kayoung and Koo Kyo-hwan have never worked with director Choi, making their potential involvement an intriguing combination. Their respective agencies have acknowledged receiving the offers, though none have reached the stage of signing a contract yet.
The buzz surrounding Choi Dong-hoon's comeback stems from the likelihood that he will return to his signature caper genre. "Sparrow" is described as an action espionage film. After experiencing disappointment with his foray into science fiction through the "Alienoid" series, his return to the genre where his strength lies is raising even higher expectations among fans.
Director Choi Dong-hoon recently drew attention by attending the "2026 Marie Claire Asia Star Awards" during the 31st Busan International Film Festival. He was also reported to have held meetings with industry insiders during the festival period.
(SBS Entertainment News | Kim Ji-hye)