Korean blockbuster film "Train to Busan" is getting a remake and it will be in English version since it is intended for international release. French production outfit called Gaumont got the exclusive rights for film's English remake.
The deal on rights for the remake was jointly revealed by Gaumont and Next Entertainment World, the movie's Korean distributor-financier, on Dec. 7. The two companies are looking forward to good business partnership for the project.
"We are more than happy to start our business with Gaumont, one of the greatest film companies with rich experience in terms of global projects," Variety quoted NEW CEO, Kim Woo Taek, as saying. "We hope this opportunity could let Korean films get more attention and be familiar with the audience all over the world."
"Train to Busan" is one of the biggest all-time box-office film in South Korea. It grossed past the $83.5 million mark in the local market alone. It was also released in over 150 regions and was a big hit in Singapore, Hong Kong and other countries. Total ticket sales outside of Korea reached over $18 million.
Moreover, "Train to Busan" attracted the attention of the international film community when it premiered at the 2016 Cannes Film Festival in May. It earned standing ovation during the festival and interested buyers for film rights clambered to get a deal from the movie's producers.
Gaumont CEO Sidonie Dumas said that since seeing "Train to Busan" at the Cannes, they have been impressed and started to chase the film for a remake deal. Since they were able to win the rights for the film's English production, Dumas stated that he and his team are excited to start working on the project, The Hollywood Reporter reported.
"Train to Busan" was directed by Yeon Sang Ho. The film marked his directorial debut so it was quite impressive that the film did so well at the box-office. The cast was led by Gong Yoo, Jung Yu Mi and Kim Soo Ahn who acted as Yoo's daughter.
