“The Zone of Interest,” directed by Jonathan Glazer, has become the highest-grossing art house film of the year, attracting over 180,000 viewers. (Image courtesy of Challan Film) SEOUL, Jul. 15 (Korea Bizwire) – A surprising trend is emerging in South Korea’s cinema landscape as art house films are experiencing a surge in popularity, particularly among viewers in their 20s and 30s.
This trend, emerging in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, is challenging industry predictions and reshaping audience preferences. According to data from the Korean Film Council, “The Zone of Interest,” directed by Jonathan Glazer, has become the highest-grossing art house film of the year, attracting over 180,000 viewers. The film, which depicts the life of a German officer’s family living next to the Auschwitz concentration camp during World War II, has garnered critical acclaim and awards at prestigious events like the Cannes Film Festival and the Academy Awards.
This success comes as a surprise even to industry insiders. The film’s distributor, Challan, had initially set a modest target of 50,000 viewers, given Glazer’s relatively low profile in South Korea and the film’s subdued narrative style. Wim Wenders’ “Perfect Days” has drawn 30,000 viewers in just ten days since its July 3 release.
(Image courtesy of T.CAST) Similarly, Wim Wenders’ “Perfect Days” has drawn 30,000 viewers in just ten days since its July 3 release. The film, which quietly follows the daily.