Lee Chang-dong's latest film, 'Possible Love', is receiving high praise from critics at the Venice Film Festival, having debuted on September 6, 2026.
Lee Chang-dong's film Possible Love premiered today at the Venice Film Festival, marking the director’s return to the screen following his 2018 work, Burning. The film intricately weaves together the lives of two married couples, exploring the complexities of their intertwined relationships. According to Deadline, the Korean Film Council has selected this film as Korea’s official entry for the Best International Feature category at the upcoming Academy Awards.
Critics have responded positively to the film, noting its engaging narrative and emotional depth. Lee Chang-dong is well-regarded in the film community for his ability to tackle profound themes through a nuanced lens, and Possible Love appears to be no exception. The film has already been praised as one of the most unanimously acclaimed at the festival, potentially setting a high bar for competition. Critics from various outlets have echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing the film’s craftsmanship and performance depth.
As reported by Deadline, multiple reviewers have highlighted the stellar cast, which includes Jeon Do-yeon, Sul Kyung-gu, Zo In-sung, and Cho Yeo-jeong. In their praise, Screen International described the film as “powerful” and “enigmatic,” while THR referred to it as a “transfixing meditation” revealing the emotional intricacies of the characters.
The Guardian assigned it a 4/5 star rating, appreciating the film's expansive storytelling and intelligent character exploration. Meanwhile, Time framed it as a “delicate drama of love and longing,” illustrating the struggles faced by those connected to loss amidst economic uncertainty.
The International Cinephile Society rated the film 4.5/5, highlighting its message about love's potential to transcend societal divides. The Radio Times lauded it as “rich and utterly absorbing,” showcasing its broad appeal to viewers who may be drawn to thoughtful cinema.
Beyond its festival success, Possible Love has also been confirmed for an Oscar-qualifying theatrical release in select territories, including South Korea and the U.S., with a planned release in October. With Netflix financing the project and retaining international distribution rights, the film is positioned to reach a wider audience than typically engage with international films.
The enthusiastic reception of Possible Love at such a prestigious setting as the Venice Film Festival signifies not just the film's quality, but also highlights South Korea’s growing impact on world cinema, particularly following the global success of films in recent years. A favorable response from audiences and critics alike may enhance its chances during awards season, especially given its selection for the Academy Awards.
As Possible Love continues to generate buzz in the film community, its impact at the Venice Film Festival could have lasting effects on Lee Chang-dong's career and the international perception of South Korean cinema. The film's blend of emotional storytelling and character depth resonates with contemporary audiences, making it a title to watch in the upcoming awards circuit. Fans of cinema, especially those who appreciate poignant narratives, will likely remain engaged with this project as it unfurls in theaters and on streaming platforms later this year.
For more on Lee Chang-dong's works, check out our coverage of Lee Chang-dong and Cast Discuss ‘Possible Love’ in Venice Competition and ‘Possible Love’ Review: Korean Master Lee Chang-dong’s Transfixing Meditation.
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