The cult classic Oldboy is set to be reborn on the small screen! Lionsgate Television has announced a partnership with the film’s visionary director, Park Chan-wook, to develop an adaptation of the English-language series. This marks the first time the iconic story will be adapted for television.
From the Big Screen to the Living Room
This news follows Park’s latest project, The Sympathizer, starring Robert Downey Jr., which recently debuted on HBO. Oldboy fans can expect the same level of creative brilliance from the director, who will serve as a producer alongside his long-time collaborator Syd Lim.
A Visionary Storyteller
“I’m thrilled to be working with Lionsgate Television,” Park said in a statement. “Their commitment to bold storytelling aligns perfectly with my vision for bringing ‘Oldboy’ to television.” Lionsgate echoed Park’s enthusiasm, highlighting his status as a “visionary storyteller” and expressing excitement about collaborating on this project.
The Oldboy Legacy
The original 2003 South Korean film Oldboy is a cinematic masterpiece. It shattered barriers, becoming the first Korean film to win the prestigious Grand Prix award at Cannes in 2004. Widely recognized as a landmark film, it consistently ranks among the greatest movies ever made. Even last year’s 20th-anniversary re-release proved its enduring popularity, landing in the top ten at the domestic box office – a rare feat for a re-release.
Legendary director Spike Lee released an American remake in 2013, starring Josh Brolin in the lead role. Brolin starred alongsideThe cast also includes Elizabeth Olson and Samuel L. Jackson. Haven’t seen it? Fix that. You can find it streaming on Netflix and Tubi.
A Story of Vengeance
Adapted from a Japanese manga, Oldboy follows a man inexplicably imprisoned for 15 years. Upon his sudden release, he embarks on a brutal quest for revenge, given only five days to find his captor. The film is part of Park’s acclaimed “Vengeance Trilogy,” which also includes Sympathy for Mr. Vengeance and Sympathy for Lady Vengeance.
A Renowned Director Enters Television
Park Chan-wook is a revered figure in world cinema. Beyond Oldboy, his directorial credits include The Handmaiden, Decision to Leave (which earned him the Best Director award at Cannes), Stoker, and Thirst. He has also ventured into television production with both the film and series versions of “Snowpiercer.” The upcoming “Oldboy” series further solidifies Park’s presence as a significant creative force in film and television.
With Park Chan-wook at the helm, the “Oldboy” television adaptation promises to be a thrilling and suspenseful reimagining of the classic story. Stay tuned for further updates as this exciting project develops!
Here’s a look back at the original film’s trailer. If you haven’t seen it, we urge you to do so. You can find it streaming now on Aarrow, Prime Video, Netflix, and on the free service Tubi.
