A Look at Anticipated Sequels, Hollywood Ventures, and Star-Studded Projects in 2024

Courtesy of CJ ENM

This year promises an exciting lineup of films in the Korean cinema, featuring sequels, Hollywood endeavors, and notable directorial ventures. Here's a brief overview: 

▲ Kim Tae-ri in a scene from the upcoming blockbuster film "Alienoid: The Return to the Future” / Courtesy of CJ ENM

1. Alienoid: The Return to the Future (Release Date: Jan. 10)

The sequel to the action-packed "Alienoid" franchise, titled "Alienoid: The Return to the Future," hits theaters on January 10. Directed by Choi Dong-hoon, the two-part film follows the story of Lee Ahn (Kim Tae-ri), a modern-day human, stuck in the Goryeo Kingdom for a decade. The plot involves androids from 2022, escaped alien criminals, and Taoist magicians battling over a legendary divine sword.

2. The Roundup: Punishment (Fourth Installment)

Continuing the success of its predecessors, the fourth installment of "The Roundup" series, titled "The Roundup: Punishment," follows the journey of cop Ma Seok-do (Ma Dong-seok). The plot revolves around Ma and his team's mission to take down Korea's largest illegal online gambling cartel alongside the cyber investigation unit. Directed by Heo Myeong-haeng, this installment is set to build on the franchise's track record of over 10 million ticket sales.

3. Mickey 17 (Directed by Bong Joon-ho)

Director Bong Joon-ho, acclaimed for "Parasite," returns with "Mickey 17," a Hollywood sci-fi thriller based on Edward Ashton's novel. Set to premiere in March, the film features a star-studded cast including Robert Pattinson, Toni Collette, Mark Ruffalo, and Steven Yeun. The story revolves around a cloned employee embarking on a human expedition to colonize the ice world of Niflheim.

4. War and Revolt (Directed by Kim Sang-man, Produced and Written by Park Chan-wook)

Set in the chaotic period of the 1392-1910 Joseon Kingdom, "War and Revolt" is a Netflix release produced and written by Park Chan-wook. Directed by Kim Sang-man, the film follows two childhood friends played by Gang Dong-won and Park Jeong-min, navigating through their lives as turned adversaries against the backdrop of war.

▲ Kim Go-eun will star in the new occult movie "Pamyo." / Courtesy of Showbox5. Pamyo (Directed by Jang Jae-hyun) and A Normal Family (Directed by Hur Jin-ho)

"Pamyo," an occult thriller scheduled for a February release, revolves around a shaman (Kim Go-eun) and a feng shui master (Choi Min-sik) investigating a mysterious occurrence in Los Angeles. Directed by Jang Jae-hyun, known for his work on occult films, the project promises intrigue.

"A Normal Family," directed by Hur Jin-ho, adapts Herman Koch's novel "The Dinner." The drama follows successful attorney Jae-wan (Sol Kyung-gu) investigating the murder of a wealthy executive's son, testing the consciences of the characters.

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Blue YIM, yimyoungseo1010@naver.com