‘The Informant’ is stirring excitement even before its domestic release with invitations and awards from international film festivals.
Last July, ‘The Informant’ was selected as the opening film for the 24th New York Asian Film Festival (NYAFF), a leading Asian film festival in North America. It had its world premiere at Lincoln Center in Manhattan, where it debuted for local audiences.
Previously, the New York Asian Film Festival has invited Korean films known for both artistic and popular appeal, such as ‘Escape from Mogadishu,’ ‘Killing Romance,’ and ‘Victory.’
Director Kim Seok expressed disbelief upon receiving the invitation to the New York Asian Film Festival, saying, “It was nerve-racking to open the film and watch it with the audience.” Kim worried about whether foreign audiences could fully grasp the film with subtitles, but noted, “It seems that people’s generous views towards the film played a role.”
Actor Jo Bok-rae also shared his delight after the press conference of ‘The Informant,’ stating, “The atmosphere was truly vibrant with a packed audience. It felt like my first time on stage for a play.”
Following the invitations from the New York Asian Film Festival and the London Korean Film Festival’s Cinema Now section, more good news arrived.
On the 28th of last month, it was announced that ‘The Informant’ received the Best Foreign Language Film award at the 2025 Asia International Film Festival held in Macau from the 26th to the 27th.
Han Sung-gu, CEO of Popcorn Film, the production company behind hits like ‘Lover’s Concerto,’ ‘Love 911,’ ‘Pawn,’ and ‘The Yellow Sea,’ expressed gratitude, saying, “I am thankful for the international recognition before our domestic release. I hope our film brings smiles and joy to our audience at home.”
Actor Jo Bok-rae, speaking on SBS Power FM’s ’12 o’clock with Ju Hyun-young,’ shared, “I was so happy to hear about the award. Many staff members, including the director, are making their film debut with this project, and I hope our effort and sincerity are recognized for success.”
Image source: NSE&M
