2025 BFI London Film Festival Review – No Alternative Choice

      No Other Choice, 2025.

      Directed by Park Chan-wook.

      Featuring Lee Byung-hun, Son Ye-jin, and Park Hee-soon.

      SYNOPSIS:

      Following several years of unemployment, a man concocts an unusual strategy to land a new job: remove his rivals.

      Park Chan-wook has demonstrated a remarkable ability to navigate different genres over the past three decades, from dark psychological thrillers and action in his Vengeance trilogy to Gothic elements in Stoker and Neo-Noir in his previous film Decision to Leave in 2022. His latest work, No Other Choice, explores black comedy through a gripping, often humorous, and sharp satire.

      Yoo Man-soo is firmly established in the paper industry, supported by a loving family. However, after being dismissed following more than 25 years of service, rather than easily transitioning to another position, he finds himself grappling with the loss of the family's comfortable way of life. Yoo Man-soo must resort to extreme actions to bring back a sense of normalcy.

      A black-comedy thriller is certainly unexpected in a storyline centered around unemployment, yet Park Chan-wook has always been unorthodox. This film plays with audience expectations at every turn, teasing surprises in one area only to reveal them elsewhere. The balance of tone is impressive, particularly considering the generally serious nature of his past work; the comedic elements are seamlessly woven in. A close comparison might be the Coen Brothers' Fargo, but likening this to others’ creations would undermine its uniqueness; this is an exceptionally original work.

      Lee Byung-hun gives an outstanding lead performance as a man overwhelmed, scheming to stay ahead and prevent any trouble for himself or his family. His clumsiness evokes genuine laughter, as he perfectly embodies both frustration and threat. Son Ye-jin is also remarkable as his perplexed wife, trying to make sense of the unfolding events and keep the family intact.

      This film offers a harsh critique of the job market, and although it is set in South Korea, many around the world can identify with the themes. Particularly relevant is the commentary on automation, the rise of AI, and the monopolization by multinational corporations, which are the initial triggers for the layoffs. The issues examined here are likely to grow in significance over time, making this a film that will resonate for years to come.

      No Other Choice further solidifies Park Chan-wook's status as one of the greatest directors of his generation. While it may deviate in tone from his previous projects, the quality associated with his work is evident. Like Decision to Leave, this is another visually captivating film. The use of diegetic sound, a critical aspect of his earlier films, shines here as it harmoniously blends with the score, offering a depth worth analyzing in future discussions.

      No Other Choice has already received considerable praise and is poised to appear in many key categories during awards season. A film centered on unemployment has no business being as entertaining or thrilling as this, and certain scenes are destined to be a hit with audiences in theaters.

      Flickering Myth Rating – Film: ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ / Movie: ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

      Chris Connor

      Originally published on October 16, 2025. Updated on October 17, 2025.