Latest news with #Pieta
Time of India
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Park Chan-wook's Triumphant Venice Return After 20 Years - Korean Cinema's Historic Moment!
Director Park chan wook Hold onto your popcorn, film fanatics! The cinema world just got a massive shakeup as Korean auteur Park Chan-wook storms back into Venice's most coveted competition section after a jaw-dropping 20-year absence. His latest masterpiece " No Other Choice " has officially been selected for the 82nd Venice International Film Festival , and trust us, this is bigger than you think! This isn't just another film selection - it's a full-blown cultural milestone! For the first time in 13 long years, a Korean film has managed to crack the ultra-exclusive Venice competition lineup. The last time this happened? Kim Ki-duk's "Pieta" snatched the Golden Lion back in 2012, making history in the process. The Venice bigwigs dropped this bombshell during their live YouTube announcement on July 22, revealing 21 competition films that'll battle it out for cinema supremacy. Park Chan-wook's inclusion marks his triumphant second entry into Venice's hallowed halls, following his 2005 stint with "Lady Vengeance," where he walked away with three prestigious awards including the Young Lion Award. When Desperation Meets Determination by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like This Is Why Smart People Always Keep Baking Soda At Home Read More Undo "No Other Choice" isn't your typical feel-good flick - it's a raw, unflinching look at modern survival. The story centers around Man-su, a seemingly content office worker whose world crumbles when he's suddenly shown the door. With a wife, Mi-ri, and two kids depending on him, he's forced into increasingly desperate measures during his job hunt. Sound familiar? This storyline hits harder than a Mumbai local during rush hour, resonating with millions of young Indians navigating today's cutthroat job market. Whether you're in Seoul or Bengaluru, the struggle for employment security is painfully universal. Based on Donald Westlake's gripping novel "The AX," this film marks Park's highly anticipated return three years after his critically acclaimed "Decision to Leave" (2022). The casting is absolutely fire - Lee Byung-hun and Son Ye-jin team up as a married couple for the first time ever, supported by powerhouse performers Park Hee-soon, Lee Sung-min, Yum Hye-ran, and Cha Seung-won. Stars Can't Contain Their Excitement The emotions are running high in the Korean film community! Park Chan-wook himself couldn't hide his feelings about Venice calling: "After completing the film and receiving the Venice invitation, I think it was good that I didn't give up on this work during all those long years." The director had previously called this project "the work I most wanted to make" when filming wrapped in January. Lee Byung-hun's enthusiasm is absolutely infectious: "I'm so eager to see the finished work that I can hardly wait!" Meanwhile, Son Ye-jin expressed pure joy: "Having Venice as my first international film festival visit is incredibly moving and glorious." Their excitement mirrors what we'd feel seeing our favorite Bollywood stars making waves at Cannes! Korean Wave Tsunami Continues Here's where it gets even more interesting - " No Other Choice" isn't the only Korean-connected project making Venice waves! "Bugonia," a Hollywood remake of Jang Joon-hwan's cult classic "Save the Green Planet" (2003), has also secured a competition slot. Directed by Greek master Yorgos Lanthimos and starring Emma Stone, with CJ ENM as co-producer, this shows how Korean creativity is being reimagined for global audiences. This double Korean presence at Venice demonstrates the incredible reach of K-content - similar to how our desi stories are finding new life in international markets. It's proof that great storytelling transcends borders, whether it's flowing from Seoul studios or Mumbai production houses. The Competition Heats Up The Venice competition lineup reads like a who's who of international cinema. Park Chan-wook will face off against heavyweights including Luca Guadagnino's "After the Hunt" starring Julia Roberts, Jim Jarmusch's "Father Mother Sister Brother," Francois Ozon's "L'Etranger," and Guillermo del Toro's highly anticipated "Frankenstein." While no Indian films made it into this year's competition section, Venice remains crucial for Asian cinema representation alongside Cannes and Berlin. The festival runs from August 27 to September 6, with all eyes on the Golden Lion prize. The stakes couldn't be higher. Just as "Pieta" created history 13 years ago by becoming the first Korean film to win the Golden Lion, there's palpable excitement about whether lightning can strike twice. Park Chan-wook's track record suggests we're in for something special. The unemployment crisis depicted in "No Other Choice" speaks to a generation that's witnessed economic uncertainty across continents. From Korean chaebols downsizing to Indian startups facing funding crunches, the film's themes of desperation and survival hit close to home for young professionals everywhere.
Korea Herald
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- Korea Herald
Park Chan-wook's ‘No Other Choice' heads to Venice competition
Black comedy becomes first Korean title in Golden Lion race since 2012's 'Pieta' Director Park Chan-wook's upcoming feature "No Other Choice" has been selected for the main competition at the 82nd Venice Film Festival, festival organizers announced Tuesday evening during a livestream unveiling the official lineup. An adaptation of Donald Westlake's 1996 novel "The Ax," "No Other Choice" follows a laid-off middle-aged man who begins eliminating rival job candidates to secure employment and support his family. Lee Byung-hun stars alongside Son Ye-jin, Park Hee-soon, Lee Sung-min, Yeom Hye-ran, Cha Seung-won and Yoo Yeon-seok. The film marks the first Korean entry to compete for the Golden Lion since Kim Ki-duk's "Pieta" won the top prize in 2012. It is produced by CJ ENM and is set for domestic release in September. Park last appeared in the Venice competition with "Sympathy for Lady Vengeance" in 2005. The director had reportedly spent 17 years developing the screenplay for "No Other Choice" before wrapping production in January. Also in this year's competition is Yorgos Lanthimos's "Bugonia," an English-language remake of Jang Joon-hwan's 2003 cult classic, "Save the Green Planet." The genre hybrid stars Emma Stone and is co-produced by CJ ENM. The 2025 Venice Film Festival runs Aug. 27-Sept. 6. Other titles in the competition include Kathryn Bigelow's "A House of Dynamite," Noah Baumbach's "Jay Kelly" starring George Clooney, and Guillermo del Toro's "Frankenstein" with Oscar Isaac.
Irish Independent
16-07-2025
- Health
- Irish Independent
Cork City Marathon 2025 breaks fundraising records with over €307,000 raised for Irish charities
The Cork City Marathon 2025 has crossed a new finish line—raising more than €307,673 for charities and community organisations across Ireland, making it a record-breaking year for the annual event. Donations were made by more than 9,400 supporters, who rallied behind friends, family, and colleagues running in the full marathon, half marathon, and 10k races on Sunday, June 1. The result is a powerful show of generosity that will benefit dozens of causes across health, wellbeing, and community support sectors. After almost doubling the amounts fundraised last year, the Cork City Marathon has reinforced its role as more than just a sporting event—it's a powerful engine for change and community impact. Among the top beneficiaries this year were Breakthrough Cancer Research, Marymount University Hospice, Pieta, and the Irish Cancer Society, each receiving five-figure sums. Cork-based charities featured strongly, with substantial funds raised for Cork ARC Cancer Support House, The Mercy Hospital Foundation, CUH Charity, The Rainbow Club Cork Centre for Autism, and Iris House Cork Cancer Support. Other well-supported Cork causes included Enable Ireland, Cork Mental Health Foundation, Cork Simon Community, and Sanctuary Runners, who brought vibrant local representation to the race. Nationally, much-needed support also went to the Alzheimer Society of Ireland, Breast Cancer Ireland, Irish Heart Foundation, Epilepsy Ireland, Diabetes Ireland, Jack and Jill Children's Foundation, Ronald McDonald House Charities, and Mental Health Ireland, along with services like BUMBLEance, Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind, and Make-A-Wish Ireland. From cancer research and mental health to paediatric care, disability services, hospice care, and suicide prevention, the sheer range of causes supported is a testament to the deeply personal reasons that inspired thousands to take part in this year's event. Race Director Eamon Hayes praised the community spirit behind the figures: 'Every year, we are humbled by the kindness and determination shown by our runners and their supporters, and 2025 has been our most impactful yet. Mr Hayes continued: 'Whether running in memory of a loved one, in solidarity with a cause, or to give back to a service that's helped them, these fundraising efforts are at the heart of what makes the Cork City Marathon so special. 'It's not just a race. It's a platform for hope, solidarity, and genuine impact in our own communities,' he added. Donations continue to come in, but the figures already confirm 2025 as a record-breaking year for the marathon, whose campaign #YourRaceTheirHope really hit home. Early registration for the 2026 Cork City Marathon on Sunday, May 31 went on sale last week and are selling extremely fast this year. For more information, visit
Irish Examiner
08-07-2025
- Health
- Irish Examiner
Cork City Marathon runners raise record-breaking €307,000 for good causes
Good causes across the country are set to benefit from more than €307,000 raised by this year's Cork City Marathon. The impressive outcome was thanks to 9,400 supporters whose collective efforts drummed up a record-breaking €307,673, almost double last year's funds. This will now benefit charities and community organisations across the country. Breakthrough Cancer Research, Marymount University Hospice, Pieta, and the Irish Cancer Society, were among the most popular charities for 2025, with each receiving five-figure sums. Other charities included Cork ARC Cancer Support House, The Mercy Hospital Foundation, CUH Charity, The Rainbow Club Cork Centre for Autism, and Iris House Cork Cancer Support. Other well-supported Cork causes included Enable Ireland, Cork Mental Health Foundation, Cork Simon Community, and Sanctuary Runners. Director Eamon Hayes praised those who donated and showed their support for the event. 'Every year, we are humbled by the kindness and determination shown by our runners and their supporters, and 2025 has been our most impactful yet. 'Whether running in memory of a loved one, in solidarity with a cause, or to give back to a service that's helped them, these fundraising efforts are at the heart of what makes the Cork City Marathon so special. It's not just a race. It's a platform for hope, solidarity, and genuine impact in our own communities. Donations continue to be raised, but the figures to date already confirm 2025 as a record-breaking year for the marathon. Registration for the 2026 Cork City Marathon on May 31 are currently on sale. For more information, visit Read More Cork Marathon 2025
RTÉ News
03-06-2025
- Sport
- RTÉ News
On This Week: THAT 'Normal People' Chain raises €70k for charity
On This Week: Irish Moments from History (2nd - 8th June) Welcome to On This Week, where we delve into the standout stories from the years gone by, featuring standout news stories, major sporting events, and pop culture highlights that helped shape Irish life. Here's your dose of Irish nostalgia from 2nd - 8th June. This Week In Irish News McDonagh Tower, a 15-storey block of flats in Ballymun, north Dublin, was reduced to rubble as part of a regeneration project. Thousands of people gathered to witness the tower's demolition, which was brought down by a controlled explosion. Oscar McAuley, the great-great-grandson of Thomas McDonagh, one of the leaders of the 1916 Rising, after whom the tower was named, pressed the detonator. 2024: CSO marked 75 years of counting the Irish economy The Central Statistics Office (CSO) celebrated its 75th anniversary this week. The CSO was established in 1949 to gather, analyse and publish independent statistics and insights about Irish society, its economy, and the environment. In 1951, it carried out its first census, the first Census of Population, which is conducted every five years. This Week In Irish Sports Barry McGuigan captured the WBA and lineal featherweight titles after 15 rounds against Eusebio Pedroza. The fighter, nicknamed the 'Clones Cyclone', was on a 27-fight winning streak before facing Pedroza, who held the title for seven years and made 19 successful defences before this fight. Yet it was McGuigan who had the upper hand, flooring Pedroza in the seventh round before winning unanimously. 2024: Gold for Ireland in 4x400m mixed relay in Europe Team Ireland produced a magnificent performance to win gold at the European Athletics Championships. The relay team included Chris O'Donnell, Rhasidat Adeleke, Thomas Barr & Sharlene Mawdsley who finished in a time of 3:09:92, a championship record. The four join Sonia O'Sullivan as the only gold medallists for Ireland in the 90-year history of the European Championships. This Week In Irish Entertainment Gay Byrne returned to the Late Late Show set to mark the 50th anniversary of the talk show. After receiving a standing ovation upon his arrival, Byrne spoke about how people hated it when the show started, but it quickly became popular, and the rest is history. The anniversary also included Brendan Balfe, who was in the audience for the very first Late Late Show, who recalled his memories of the first show. 2020: Paul Mescal raises €70,000 raffling THAT chain for charity Paul Mescal raised over €70,000 for suicide prevention charity Pieta by raffling off the iconic chain worn by his Normal People character Connell. The chain became a hit with fans to the point that it had its own Instagram account with over 180,000 followers. Mescal said he particularly wanted to help Pieta because "suicide and depression are themes directly linked to Normal People." This Week In Irish Culture 2003: St Anthony relics tour Ireland The relics of the Franciscan monk Saint Anthony of Padua, one of the Catholic Church's most popular saints, came to Ireland for a nine-day tour. Saint Anthony is famous for his power to return lost possessions, and his tour began at Fairview in Dublin. At one point, the poles used to carry the reliquary were lost in Dublin Airport, but Franciscan Conventual friar Father Xavier Goulet, who helped organise the tour, knew who to turn to. They found them about an hour before the official reception of the relics in Fairview started. 2023: Largest collection of Cumann na mBan memorabilia goes on display One of the largest and most comprehensive collections of Cumann na mBan memorabilia has gone on display at the Cork Public Museum after its surprise discovery in a dusty attic. The archive, which contains over 5,000 items, including photographs, letters, pamphlets, and newspaper clippings, gave insight into the role of the women's Republican paramilitary organisation during tumultuous times in the country's history, especially during the Civil War. The collection would have been lost forever if a house owner had not contacted the museum and asked them to assess the material before selling the property in 2007. What was Number 1 in Ireland This Week? 1979: 'Sunday Girl' by Blondie Sunday Girl was written by Blondie's guitarist Chris Stein and was inspired by Debbie Harry's cat having run away. 1983: 'Every Breath You Take' by The Police The Police's signature song was recognised by BMI in the US as the most played song in radio history. 1998: 'C'est La Vie' by B*Witched The iconic song from B*Witched made them the youngest girl group ever to have a UK number one. Irish Celebrities Celebrating Birthdays This Week Liam Cunningham (64) Actor best known for roles in Game of Thrones, The Wind That Shakes The Barley, and Hunger. Donal Skehan (39) Television presenter, chef and food writer. Helen McEntee (39) Minister for Education and Youth, and Deputy Leader of Fine Gael. Other Irish Trivia From This Week 2019: The Irish pigeon who played a vital role in D-Day An Irish pigeon played a small but vital part in bringing the news of the Normandy landings on D-Day 75 years ago. Paddy the Pigeon was one of 32 pigeons released from Normandy to bring back the news of D-Day to England. He travelled 368 km (230 miles) in four hours and 50 minutes. For this feat, Paddy was awarded the Dickin Medal, which has been described as the animal equivalent of Britain's Victoria Cross, and is the only Irish animal to have been so decorated. Looking Ahead
