Song Joong Ki's latest project has got both fans and critics alike buzzing—and for good reason. Following a world premiere at the 76th Cannes Film Festival on May 24, 2023, Hopeless (Korean title: Hwaran) held its South Korean premiere at the Busan International Film Festival (BIFF) on Saturday, October 7).
Here's everything you need to know about Song Joong Ki's movie Hopeless (Hwaran):
What is the plot of Hopeless (Hwaran)?
The upcoming noir film marks director Kim Chang Hoon's feature film debut. Joong Ki—who chose to appear in the film for no pay!—portrays a mid-level mobster named Chi Geon. He becomes entangled with a teenager (Hong Sa Bin) desperate to escape his hellish hometown. Together, the two set out together to survive a dangerous world.
Who are the cast members starring in Hopeless (Hwaran)?
Song Joong Ki
According to Soompi, Joong Ki will portray Chi Geon "who’s in charge of middle management for an organization." "I'm happy to appear in Hwaran and since it's a project that will be a new challenge for me, it feels new. I'm looking forward to the competitive and passionate set that we will create together with the director and actors," the actor said during the movie's script reading.
Joong Ki has appeared in several fan favorite K-dramas including Descendants of the Sun, Vincenzo, and Reborn Rich, and was one of the winners of the Popular Star Awards at the 44th annual Blue Dragon Film Awards last November 24. His most recent movie prior to Hopeless (Hwaran) was the 2021 Netflix film Space Sweepers.
Hong Sa Bin
18-year-old Yeon Gyu is a lonely boy with no place to lean on, but will that change when he encounters Chi Geon, a possible partner-in-crime?
Hong Sa Bin won Best New Actor at the 44th Blue Dragon Film Awards for his performance in the film, but surprised many when his agency SEM Company confirmed reports that the actor was preparing for his military service: his enlistment will start on December 19.
BIBI
Credited under her real name Kim Hyung Seo, BIBI will be playing the character Ha Yan. Described as a strong and determined person, Ha Yan is not easily intimidated by the harsh reality.
In 2018 BIBI placed second in the SBS competition show The Fan, and made her official debut in May 2019 with her single "Binu." She was nominated for Best New Actress at the 44th Blue Dragon Film Awards for her role in Hopeless (Hwaran), and fans of 2023 drama The Worst of Evil will recognize her as Lee Hae Ryeon.
Also credited as part of the cast are actors Jung Man Sik, Park Bo Kyung, and Kim Jong Soo.
When and where can I watch Hopeless (Hwaran) in the Philippines?
Moviegoers, mark your calendars and get ready to for the Philippine premiere of Hopless (Hwaran) in cinemas on Wednesday, December 13.
Hype yourselves up by watching the official trailer here:
