Ma Dong Seok’s starring film “Wilderness” has decided to forego its theatrical release and opt for a Netflix debut. This decision, likely a result of careful consideration, comes on the heels of underwhelming performances by previously highly anticipated Korean films like “Smugglers,” “Concrete Utopia,” “Ransomed,” and “The Moon.” Despite this, the recent successes of “12.12: The Day” and “Noryang: Deadly Sea,” lifting the Korean film market from a slump, leave industry insiders puzzled.
Although the exact price Netflix paid for “Wilderness” remains undisclosed, industry norms suggest they usually add 10% to 20% on top of a film’s production cost for unreleased acquisitions. This move might hint at the production company’s uncertainty about “Wilderness” breaking even.
‘Wilderness” is slated to premiere on Netflix on January 26, 2024, running for 107 minutes.
Official Trailer of Wilderness
From the teaser released, it’s clear that the film, despite being labeled as the sequel and sharing the setting, significantly diverges from the anticipated atmosphere of “Concrete Utopia.” Specifically, it leans more towards the tone of the American drama “The Walking Dead” rather than resembling “Concrete Utopia” as previously anticipated.
synopsis of Wilderness
It paints a picture of a world in ruins post a global earthquake, where essential resources such as electricity, water, and food are scarce commodities. This setting is plagued by perpetual threats from looters and murderers. Amid this turmoil, it tracks the aspirations of those dreaming of fostering a new human society, juxtaposed against those who oppose them, weaving a narrative around a quest to rescue the vulnerable.
Originally conceived as a sequel to this year’s film “Concrete Utopia,” “Wilderness” shares the universe and narrative continuum with its predecessor, portraying the story that unfolds afterwards.
casting of Wilderness
Detailed information about the characters assigned to the actors has not been disclosed.
Ma Dong-Seok
Ma Dong-Seok stands as a trailblazer in the Korean film industry, shaping a unique genre with his impactful roles. Movies like “Nameless Gangster: Rules of the Time,” “KUNDO : Age of the Rampant,” “Train to Busan,” and the “The Outlaws” series have adorned his impressive filmography, boasting multiple blockbusters that have garnered over ten million viewers. With a commanding presence and a knack for portraying somewhat stereotypical yet undeniably magnetic characters, he continues to be a linchpin for success in Korean cinema, earning his place as one of its most reliable crowd-pullers.
Lee Hee-Jun
Lee Hee-jun has made notable appearances in films like “1987: When the Day Comes” and “The Man Standing Next,” along with television series such as “My Husband Got a Family,” “The Queen of Office,” and “Mouse.” In 2024, in addition to “Wilderness,” he’s set to star in the Netflix series titled “A Killer Paradox.”
Additionally, actors such as Lee Jun-young, No Jung-ui, Kim Young-sun, and Lee Han-joo have been cast.
production crew of Wilderness
The directorial reins are in the hands of Director Heo Myeong-haeng. Heo Myeong-haeng has a background as a martial arts director for films like “The Good, the Bad, the Weird,” “New World,” “Hunt,” and “The Outlaws” and TV series such as “Vincenzo,” and “D.P.” This film, “Wilderness,” marks his directorial debut in feature films.
behind the scene of Wilderness
- After a rollercoaster of events, Ma Dong-seok finally made his Netflix original debut with “Wilderness.”
- The production budget was reported to be approximately 140 billion Korean won.
- Another film, “The Outlaws 4,” which marks another collaboration between director Heo Myeong-haeng and Ma Dong-seok, is scheduled for release in May 2024.
Na Hong-jin’s next film is increasing expectation. https://triviaaboutkorea.com/director-na-hong-jin-with-his-new-film-hope/
