Animated Film by Korean American Director Peter Sohn Garners Success with Local Audiences

WALT DISNEY COMPANY KOREA

In a testament to its popularity and cultural resonance, Pixar's latest animated film, "Elemental," has soared to new heights at the South Korean box office, selling over 4 million tickets on Saturday. The movie has claimed its position as the ninth best-selling animation film in the country, captivating audiences since its release on June 14.

"Elemental" achieved this milestone 32 days after its theatrical debut, surpassing ticket sales in all regions except North America earlier this month. The film's tremendous success can be attributed, in part, to the numerous Korean elements seamlessly woven into the story, both visually and thematically.

Directed and produced by Korean American filmmaker Peter Sohn, "Elemental" revolves around characters embodying the four elements of fire, earth, air, and water, coexisting in a bustling metropolis. The film's head animator, Korean American Lee Chae-yeon, contributes her artistic prowess to bring the enchanting world to life. Additionally, the story incorporates diverse Korean and immigrant perspectives, shedding light on the significance and pressures of family relationships, as well as the struggles with discrimination faced by the main character, Ember, and her family.

While "Elemental" continues to captivate audiences with its imaginative storytelling, it stands as the third highest-grossing animated film in South Korea. "Frozen 2" (2019) holds the top spot with an impressive 13.8 million tickets sold, followed closely by its predecessor, "Frozen" (2014), with 10.3 million tickets. The Japanese animation film "Suzume" (2022) secures the third position with 5.5 million tickets sold.

The success of "Elemental" in South Korea underscores the audience's affinity for narratives that reflect their cultural identity and experiences. As the film combines the artistry of Pixar with the insights of Korean American creators, it strikes a chord with viewers, resonating on a deep and personal level.

Sayart.net 

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