Lee Chang-dong's 'Possible Love' aims for top prize at Venice film fest

Korean filmmaker Lee Chang-dong's upcoming film Possible Love is set to compete for the prestigious Golden Lion award at this year's Venice International Film Festival, which commences on Wednesday. The 83rd edition of the renowned festival runs until next Saturday. Since 2014, when he released the critically acclaimed Burning, Lee has not directed a feature film. However, his latest work has been chosen by the Korean Film Council to represent South Korea at the Oscars.

Starring an ensemble cast featuring Jeon Do-yeon, Sul Kyung-gu, Zo In-sung, and Cho Yeo-jeong, Possible Love explores the nuanced emotions and connections between a recently unemployed individual and his spouse, as well as a documentary filmmaker and her affluent husband. This invitation marks Lee's return to the Venice Film Festival after a 24-year absence, following his 2002 romance drama Oasis.

The film received accolades at its Venice debut, winning the Silver Lion for Best Director and the FIPRESCI critics' award. Lead actress Moon So-ri was also honored with the Marcello Mastroianni Award for emerging actors. Other films vying for the top prize include Danny Boyle's Ink, Casey Affleck's Company, Martin McDonagh's Wild Horse Nine, and Hirokazu Kore-eda's Look Back, all of which are represented by American director-actor Maggie Gyllenhaal on the festival's jury.