Old Boy and The Handmaiden Director Park Chan-wook to Return with Violent Comedy

Celebrated Korean director Park Chan-wook is set to commence filming today for his adaptation of Donald Westlake’s 1996 novel, The Ax. The film, currently titled I Can’t Help It, will feature prominent Korean stars Lee Byung-hun and Son Ye-jin. The project is backed by CJ ENM for both financing and distribution. This is prepared by SSP.

Westlake’s novel has previously seen a French adaptation as Le Couperet by Costa Gavras in 2005. Emulating its predecessor, Park’s rendition narrates the desperate journey of Man-soo, portrayed by Lee Byung-hun, who, after getting laid off from his long-term job at a paper company, becomes intensely committed to eliminating his job competitors to secure a new position. Son Ye-jin will portray his supportive wife, Mi-ri. The supporting cast includes Lee Sung-min, Yeom Hye-ran, Park Hee-soon, Cha Seung-won, and Yoo Yeon-seok.

Park Chan-wook has recently explored American television with HBO’s upcoming series, The Sympathizer, based on Viet Thanh Nguyen’s renowned novel and starring Robert Downey Jr. His previous acclaimed project was the 2022 romantic mystery drama Decision to Leave. Last year also marked the 20th anniversary of his iconic film Old Boy.

This new project reaffirms Park’s collaboration with actor Lee Byung-hun, who previously worked together on the landmark film Joint Security Area (2000). Lee, who has gained international fame through his role in Netflix’s Squid Game, is regarded as a versatile actor in Korean cinema. Son Ye-jin, affectionately known as Korea's "Nation’s First Love," makes her debut collaboration with Park in this film.

A teaser poster for I Can’t Help It has also been released, featuring an intriguing design. Although the English-language title remains unconfirmed, there is speculation that the film could be showcased at the Cannes Film Festival. CJ ENM has not yet disclosed a target release date for the film.