Park Chan-wook’s Murderous Comedy of Corporate Manners Is a Masterpiece
Foreign Policy
by Sarah WeinmanFebruary 13, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
South Korean filmmaker Park Chan-wook’s latest film, *No Other Choice*, is a darkly humorous and deeply unsettling exploration of corporate greed, economic collapse, and the lengths individuals will go to in the face of desperation. The story follows Man-su (played by Lee Byung-hun), an average man living a seemingly idyllic life with his family when he is suddenly laid off from Solar Paper, a company where he has worked for 25 years. As he struggles to find new employment and support his family, Man-su’s controlled anger begins to unravel into something far more dangerous. The film masterfully blends absurdity, violence, and satire to critique the ruthless nature of corporate downsizing and the societal pressures that force individuals to extremes.
Man-su’s descent into chaos is both tragic and unnerving. After failing to secure a new job within three months, he turns to desperate measures, including life-coaching workshops and retail work, all while his rage grows. Eventually, he resorts to creating a fake company to eliminate potential competition—literally. The film explores the breaking point of traditional middle-class stability in South Korea, where globalization and corporate restructuring have left many feeling abandoned. Man-su’s transformation from a content family man to a multiple murderer reflects the societal fractures caused by economic inequality and the eroding social contract.
Park Chan-wook’s direction is as meticulous as ever, with every scene building on the last and merging visual and musical cues to create a haunting atmosphere. The film’s humor is dark and biting, highlighting the absurdity of corporate culture and the desperation it can breed. *No Other Choice*
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Originally published on Foreign Policy on 2/13/2026