The psychological thriller from director Yeon Sang-ho has achieved global distribution deals and is set for its U.S. premiere at the Hawaii International Film Festival.
Key facts
- •The film has been sold to 118 countries worldwide.
- •International sales revenue has already exceeded the film's net production budget.
- •The U.S. premiere will take place at the 46th Hawaii International Film Festival.
- •The film previously held sold-out screenings at the 51st Toronto International Film Festival and the 31st Busan International Film Festival.
- •The film opens in South Korean theaters on October 21, 2026.
CJ ENM has finalized international sales for the psychological thriller 'Paradise Lost' to 118 countries. Directed by Yeon Sang-ho, the film is scheduled for its U.S. premiere at the Hawaii International Film Festival on November 1 and 4. The project, which stars Hyun-joo Kim and Hyeon-seong Bae, has already surpassed its net production budget through international sales revenue.
Plot and Production Details
The film follows a mother, played by Kim Hyun-joo, whose son disappeared nine years earlier alongside a busload of children traveling to a camp. After being presumed dead, the son, portrayed by Bae Hyeon-seong, unexpectedly returns home. Produced by Wowpoint and presented by Wowpoint and CJ ENM, the film explores themes of family and motherhood.
Festival Run and Global Distribution
Following sold-out screenings at the Toronto International Film Festival and the Busan International Film Festival, 'Paradise Lost' will be featured in the 'Spotlight on Korea' section at the Hawaii International Film Festival, which runs from October 21 to November 15. The film is set to open in South Korean theaters on October 21, 2026. International theatrical releases are scheduled for Taiwan on October 23, Singapore on November 5, North America and Vietnam on November 6, and Indonesia on November 13.
International Partners
Global distribution partners include Twin for Japan, The Jokers Films for France, and Well Go USA for North America. Other territories with acquired rights include Taiwan, Singapore, Spain, Benelux, Mongolia, the Philippines, and the Middle East. CJ ENM attributes the film's sales success to the director's established reputation and the company's long-standing international distribution network.
Timeline
- October 21, 2026The film opens in South Korean theaters.
- November 1 and 4The film screens at the Hawaii International Film Festival.
- November 6The film is scheduled for release in North America and Vietnam.
Advertisement
