Yorgos Lanthimos, acclaimed director of 'Poor Things,' is teaming up once again with Element Pictures for an ambitious project — a remake of the South Korean fantasy comedy 'Save the Green Planet.' After the success of 'Poor Things,' which earned 11 Oscar nominations and secured five BAFTAs, including Best Actress for Emma Stone, Lanthimos is set to embark on this eccentric black comedy. Here's what we know about this exciting venture.
Yorgos Lanthimos and Element Pictures, led by Ed Guiney and Andrew Lowe, are set for their sixth collaboration on this unique project. The film is expected to commence shooting in the U.K. and New York during the summer. Joining forces with Ari Aster’s Square Peg and CJ ENM (formerly CJ Entertainment), the production is anticipated to be a creative fusion.
The remake explores an eccentric black comedy, revolving around a disillusioned young man who firmly believes that a businessman is part of an alien invasion. The plot takes a dark turn as the protagonist captures and tortures the alleged invader, sparking a battle of wits involving his devoted girlfriend, the businessman, and a private detective.
The original South Korean film, directed by Jang Joon-hwan in 2003, achieved cult status and became a festival favorite. Titled 'Green Planet,' it garnered awards at fantasy festivals in Bucheon, Buenos Aires, Brussels, and found recognition in markets like Rotterdam, Tokyo Filmex, and Moscow. Jang was honored with the Golden Bell Award for Best New Director in Korea in 2003.
CJ ENM, known for its extensive library of Korean and Asian content, has a track record of remaking its high-concept titles. While Element Pictures is no stranger to bold and innovative cinema, this collaboration promises to bring a fresh perspective to the quirky narrative.
Lanthimos, having recently completed 'Poor Things,' is already working on his next venture, 'Kinds of Kindness,' starring Emma Stone, Margaret Qualley, Willem Dafoe, and Joe Alwyn. The remake of 'Save the Green Planet' adds another intriguing chapter to Lanthimos's distinguished filmmaking journey.