Park Chan-Wook’s Oldboy is an absolute all-timer, a twisty bundle of disturbing images, horrifying revelations, and plenty of hammer-to-face violence. Some years ago, Spike Lee mounted an American remake of the film starring Josh Brolin, and while that film certainly had its defenders (hey, they’re out there), it fell short of capturing the magic of Chan-Wook’s 2023 film.
Now, Lionsgate is partnering with the filmmaker for an English-language Oldboy TV series, one that Chan-Wook will develop and produce. Take it away, press release:
“Lionsgate Television is partnering with renowned Korean filmmaker and television creator Park Chan-wook to develop his acclaimed film Oldboy for television, marking the first English-language series adaptation of the iconic property. Park, who directed and co-wrote the original film, is attached to produce the series along with producing partner Syd Lim.
Oldboy has earned numerous accolades, becoming the first South Korean film to win the Grand Prix at Cannes in 2004 and named to numerous lists of the greatest movies of all time. The movie was re-released last year for its 20th anniversary, landing in the top ten at the domestic box office in its opening week, a rare feat for a re-release. Adapted from a Japanese manga of the same name, the film follows a man who is released from prison after 15 years, only to find that he must find his captor in five days. The film is part of Park’s Vengeance trilogy, which includes Sympathy for Mr. Vengeance and Sympathy for Lady Vengeance.”
One can imagine the episodic structure of Oldboy lending itself well to television, and it’s particularly exciting given that Park Chan-Wook himself will be helping to steer the ship. Says the director:
“Lionsgate Television shares my creative vision for bringing Oldboy into the world of television. I look forward to working with a studio whose brand stands for bold, original and risk-taking storytelling.”
And according to Scott Herbst, EVP and Head of Scripted Development at Lionsgate Television, this version of Oldboy won’t be skimping on all the stuff we loved about Chan-Wook’s original film:
“Park is one of the most visionary storytellers of our generation, and we’re excited to partner with him in bringing his cinematic masterpiece to the television screen. This series adaptation of Oldboy will featurethe raw emotional power, iconic fight scenes and visceral style that made the film a classic.”
Given that the Oldboy TV series is currently in development and no further credits are currently attached to Lionsgate’s press release, we’re guessing that it’ll be a while before we’re actually sitting down to watch the series premiere. Rest assured we’ll keep you informed of its progress as it works its way through production, and will have updates for you as they roll in. Stay tuned.
