Lee Chang-dong’s ‘Possible Love’ Captivates Venice Film Festival

A triumphant return for Lee Chang-dong

After a six‑year hiatus following the critical success of Burning, South Korean auteur Lee Chang-dong steps back onto the global stage with Possible Love. The film marks his first collaboration with two of Korea’s most respected actors, Jean Do-yeon and Sul Kyung-gu, who previously shared screen time in Lee’s acclaimed dramas.

Venice reception in detail

Premiering in the competition section of the Venice International Film Festival, Possible Love quickly became a buzz‑generator. Critics highlighted the director’s nuanced storytelling and the palpable chemistry between the leads. The film secured a standing ovation that lasted several minutes, a rare honor that underscores its impact.

Critical consensus

Major publications praised the film for its layered narrative. The British Film Institute noted that Lee’s “patient direction allows emotions to unfold without melodrama”. Meanwhile, The New York Times called it “a masterclass in restrained drama”.

Star power reunited

Jeon Do-yeon, an Academy Award nominee for Secret Sunshine, delivers a performance that many describe as her most intimate to date. Sul Kyung-gu, known for his roles in Oasis and The Attorney, matches her intensity with a subtle, grounded presence. Their reunion after more than a decade adds a layer of anticipation that resonates with audiences familiar with their earlier collaborations.

Behind the scenes

Director: Lee Chang-dong
Screenwriter: Lee Chang-dong
Producer: Netflix
Cinematography: Hong Kyung-pyo
Music: Jo Yeong-wook

Korea’s Oscar submission

In a strategic move, the Korean Film Council announced Possible Love as the nation’s official entry for the Academy Awards. The decision reflects confidence in the film’s universal themes and Lee’s reputation for crafting stories that resonate beyond borders.

What the submission means

Being selected as a country’s Oscar entry often boosts a film’s visibility in the international market. It also places the work in direct competition with other acclaimed titles, increasing the likelihood of further festival invitations and distribution deals.

Netflix’s awards strategy

Netflix, the film’s primary distributor, has positioned Possible Love as a contender for its internal awards cycle. The streaming giant highlighted the film in its Netflix Newsroom release, emphasizing the collaboration with an auteur of Lee’s caliber.

Potential accolades

Best International Feature at the Academy Awards
Best Film – Competition at the Venice International Film Festival
Best Director – Netflix Awards
Best Actor – Jeon Do-yeon (Netflix Awards)
Best Cinematography – Hong Kyung-pyo (Netflix Awards)

Impact on Korean cinema

Lee’s return signals a renewed global interest in Korean storytelling. Since the worldwide success of Parasite, Korean films have enjoyed heightened visibility. Possible Love builds on that momentum, offering a contemplative narrative that contrasts with the thriller‑driven wave that preceded it.

Industry reactions

Industry insiders from the Korean Film Council praised the film for its artistic ambition and potential to attract foreign investment. Analysts suggest that the film’s success could encourage more co‑production agreements between Korean studios and streaming platforms.

Audience reception and box office outlook

Early audience surveys from Venice indicate a strong emotional connection to the characters. Ticket sales in Italy surpassed initial projections, hinting at a robust performance in subsequent markets. In South Korea, the film is slated for a limited theatrical release before moving to Netflix, a strategy designed to maximize both critical acclaim and subscriber growth.

Overall, Possible Love stands as a testament to Lee Chang-dong’s enduring craftsmanship, the magnetic pull of his recurring collaborators, and the evolving landscape of global cinema.