Hong Sang-soo's Film Invited to Berlin International Film Festival Amidst Anticipation for Kim Min-hee's Appearance

Director Hong Sang-soo has received an official invitation to the competitive section of the 75th Berlin International Film Festival (Berlinale), which kicks off on February 13, 2025. The film, titled 'What Does the Nature Say to You?' marks the 16th collaboration between Hong and actress Kim Min-hee. This film continues their streak, as it is the sixth consecutive year that Hong's work has been selected for the festival. Previously, Hong has won several awards at Berlinale, including the Silver Bear for Best Director for 'The Woman Who Ran' and the Silver Bear for Best Screenplay for 'Introduction'. Last year, he received the Jury Grand Prix for 'The Novelist's Film', although Kim Min-hee did not attend that event.

The spotlight is particularly on whether Kim Min-hee will join Hong on the red carpet this year. Recently, it was revealed that she is pregnant with Hong's child, which has generated significant interest. This festival marks Hong's first public appearance since the 'extramarital child scandal', raising questions about whether the couple will address their upcoming child during the event.

Additionally, Bong Joon-ho's new film 'Mickey 17' has been invited to the Special Gala section of the festival. This marks Bong's return to filmmaking after six years since 'Parasite', and it is based on Edward Ashton's novel 'Mickey 7'. The film follows 'Mickey', an expendable worker who faces death repeatedly, leading to unexpected twists when a new version, 'Mickey 18', is printed. The cast includes Hollywood stars like Robert Pattinson, Steven Yeun, Naomi Ackie, Mark Ruffalo, and Toni Collette, generating excitement among global audiences.

Director Min Kyu-dong's new film 'The Fall' has also been invited to the Berlinale Special section. The film depicts a legendary killer, who has spent 40 years dealing with human pests, in a thrilling blood-soaked showdown with a mysterious assassin. The red carpet event will feature Min Kyu-dong and actress Lee Hye-young.

The 75th Berlin International Film Festival will take place from February 13 to 23, 2025, in Berlin, Germany.