In an exciting development within the realm of Korean cinema, Finecut, a Seoul-based sales agency, has successfully secured deals for its compelling thriller-drama, A Girl With Closed Eyes, just in time for the upcoming European Film Market (EFM) in Berlin. This film, featuring the talented Kim Minha—known for her role in Apple TV+’s acclaimed series Pachinko—has generated considerable interest from international distributors. The recent acquisition of A Girl With Closed Eyes by various companies across multiple regions, including Red Castle Group in the Commonwealth of Independent States and The Klockworx Co., Ltd. in Japan, highlights the growing global appeal of Korean narratives.
A Girl With Closed Eyes is a gripping story that intricately weaves the lives of two individuals tied by a traumatic past. The film delves into the enigmatic realm of murder and investigation, centering on a murder suspect, portrayed by Kim Minha, and a detective played by Moon Choi, who is also recognized for her work in the film Okja. Their reconnection occurs amidst the dark backdrop of a bestselling author’s murder, which catalyzes a series of revelations that evoke themes of betrayal, trust, and the quest for truth. This intertwining of personal histories with a murder investigation not only adds depth to the story but also showcases the unique ability of Korean cinema to explore complex emotional landscapes.
Chun Sunyoung, who takes the helm as the director of A Girl With Closed Eyes, marks her debut in feature films with this project. Her prior experience as a filmmaker was showcased at Cannes Critics’ Week with her short film Good Night, which speaks to her potential in crafting captivating narratives. The world premiere of A Girl With Closed Eyes at the prestigious Busan International Film Festival last year further solidified its status as a must-see film. Additionally, its selection as the closing film for the upcoming Florence Korea Film Festival indicates a warm reception within the festival circuit and a promising future as it captures the attention of international audiences.
Finecut’s Expanding Slate
Finecut, which continues to build its reputation as a major player in the international film market, is maintaining momentum with a diverse slate of projects. In addition to A Girl With Closed Eyes, the agency is set to feature What Does That Nature Say to You? by renowned filmmaker Hong Sang-soo in the Berlinale competition. This showcases Finecut’s commitment to presenting high-quality Korean films that resonate with global audiences.
As A Girl With Closed Eyes prepares for its market screening at the EFM, alongside the first footage from Park Hoon-jung’s Tristes Tropiques, it embodies a pivotal moment for Korean cinema as it seeks to establish greater international connections. This film not only reflects the evolution of storytelling in Korea but also marks an exciting era where more narratives are shared on the world stage, further enriching the global cinematic landscape. The successful distribution deals underscore a significant interest in fresh and diverse voices in filmmaking, paving the way for a broader understanding and appreciation of Korean culture through its film industry.