Director Ryoo Seung-wan’s gripping new action crime film, I, The Executioner, starring Hwang Jung-min and Jung Hae-in, has captured international attention, earning prestigious slots at both the Festival de Cannes and the Toronto International Film Festival. A highly anticipated sequel to the 2015 box office hit Veteran, the film opens in Philippine cinemas on September 25.
Following its world premiere in the Midnight Screening section of the 77th Festival de Cannes, I, The Executioner was met with widespread critical acclaim. Screen Daily hailed it as “the most flawless, astonishing action since ‘John Wick: Chapter 4’ — a sequel that surpasses the original,” while the South China Morning Post lauded it as delivering “more intense action, more solid storytelling, and a rollercoaster experience.” Reuters praised Ryoo Seung-wan for presenting “fresh action and relatable themes,” and The Hollywood Reporter highlighted his ability to blend “entertaining action with sharp psychological and social exploration.” Cinemateaser echoed these sentiments, calling it “a sequel that does not disappoint,” arriving almost a decade after the commercial success of Veteran.
The excitement surrounding I, The Executioner continued at the 49th Toronto International Film Festival, where it was featured in the Special Presentations section, running from September 5 to September 15. Director Ryoo, no strange to international acclaim, had previously been invited to the Gala Presentation section in 2023 with Smugglers and to the Vanguard section in 2015 with Veteran. With its selection by two of the world’s most prestigious film festivals, I, The Executioner showcases its universal appeal and artistic merit, underscoring the power of cinematic storytelling that transcends borders.
Director Ryoo Seung-wan Reflects on His Journey:
Ryoo, who last attended Cannes 19 years ago with Crying Fist, expressed profound gratitude for this opportunity: “It took 50 years to get here (Lumière Theatre). It’s truly an honor and a meaningful moment,” he stated, reflecting on his dedication to filmmaking. Cannes festival director Thierry Frémaux’s high praise that the film is “even more impressive on the big screen” has only heightened anticipation among global audiences.
A Thrilling Plot That Keeps You on the Edge of Your Seat:
I, The Executioner follows Detective Seo Do-cheol (played by Hwang Jung-min) and his Major Crimes Investigation Division as they relentlessly track down criminals, sacrificing their personal lives in pursuit of justice. The murder of a professor, linked to past unsolved cases, suggests the chilling presence of a serial killer, throwing the entire country into panic. As the killer taunts the police with public online teasers hinting at the next victim, the tension escalates. The team recruits idealistic rookie officer Park Sun-woo (played by Jung Hae-in) to help navigate the high-stakes investigation, setting the stage for a series of unexpected twists.
Opening in Philippine cinemas on September 25, I, The Executioner is poised to thrill audiences with its gripping narrative, intense action sequences, and unforgettable performances. Distributed in the Philippines by Warner Bros. Pictures, a Warner Bros. Discovery company, this film promises to be a landmark moment in global cinema. Don’t miss the chance to experience the cinematic power and adrenaline-pumping action of I, The Executioner.
Join the conversation online using the hashtag #ITheExecutioner!
Photo & Video Credit: Warner Bros. Pictures
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