Filmmaker Lee Chang-dong returns to the cinema with ‘Possible Love,’ his first feature in eight years, which will premiere at Venice.
Korean director Lee Chang-dong has made a highly anticipated return to feature filmmaking with his new film, Possible Love. After an eight-year hiatus marked by personal reflection and self-doubt, Lee is screening his latest work in competition at the Venice Film Festival. The announcement, which highlights his return and the film’s themes, was reported by Deadline on September 5, 2026.
In a candid discussion with Deadline, Lee attributed his extended absence to what he described as his "pathological timidity." He remarked that without a strong personal conviction, he finds it difficult to start work on a new project, regardless of external pressures. This insight sheds light on the depth of his creative process, indicating the importance of conviction in the storytelling he pursues.
Possible Love tells the intertwining stories of two married couples facing unique life challenges. The film features Jeon Do-yeon and Sul Kyung-gu in pivotal roles, exploring themes of labor and societal pressures through a narrative that combines comedy and social critique. Netflix is set to release the film in theaters on October 23, followed by its streaming debut on November 6.
Lee co-wrote the screenplay with Oh Jung-mi, who previously collaborated with him on his film Burning (2018). The director shared insights about the creation of the film, particularly in light of real events in South Korea related to labor rights and economic change. The project was inspired by the hardships faced by laid-off workers, a topic that Lee initially hesitated to adapt into a dramatic narrative, reflecting his concern about whether he was the right person to tell such a significant story.
The film delves into serious social issues, particularly focusing on the struggles between labor and capital—a common thread in contemporary Korean cinema. Lee noted that the story is born out of the real-life struggles faced by laid-off workers in Korea, which he initially hesitated to adapt into a dramatic narrative.
He revealed that the project evolved when his collaborator suggested incorporating the perspective of a documentary filmmaker, which allowed him to approach the subject matter with renewed purpose. Possible Love is a masterful return that runs close to three hours and carries a tribute to Krzysztof Kieślowski’s Dekalog, specifically addressing human desires within capitalist society.
Fans and critics alike have eagerly awaited Lee Chang-dong's next project since his last feature, Burning. Lee acknowledged this anticipation and expressed his regrets about the delay in delivering new work. His conviction in storytelling, especially when addressing complex themes related to labor and societal pressures, has made him a respected figure in cinema. His return is seen as a significant moment in film, one that invites audiences to reflect on pertinent social issues.
The emotional resonance and depth of Possible Love underscore why audiences are drawn to Lee's films, which often reflect broader societal critiques while grounding them in personal narratives. The intertwining stories found in Possible Love embody a significant commentary on familial bonds and societal expectations, ultimately enriching the cinematic experience for viewers.
Lee Chang-dong's return to filmmaking emphasizes the need for authentic narratives that engage with pressing social issues. Through Possible Love, he explores themes that resonate not just within South Korea but across global contexts, encouraging audiences to reflect on their relationships with labor, capital, and their inherent human desires. The film stands as a testament to the transformative power of cinema, reiterating the importance of storytelling rooted in personal conviction and social consciousness.
Entertainment news
EpisodeBreakdown may use automated tools to assist research, drafting, and formatting. Published pages are governed by our editorial and corrections policies, and source links are shown when they are available in the article record.
Discovery source: Deadline. The source identifies where the topic was discovered; EpisodeBreakdown is responsible for the commentary published on this page.
Reader response
Reactions and poll results are based on real reader responses. No account is required.
