Train to Busan

Promotional Poster

***Train to Busan*** (부산행) is a 2016 South Korean action horror film directed by Yeon Sang-ho and written by Park Joo-suk. It stars Gong Yoo, Jung Yu-mi,Ma Dong-seok, Kim Su-an, Choi Woo-shik, Ahn So-hee and Kim Eui-sung. "Train to Busan" follows a group of passengers trapped on a speeding train during a zombie outbreak as they fight to survive and reach the safety of Busan, battling both the undead and their own fears along the way.

## Plot

"Train to Busan" is a gripping South Korean film that revolves around Seok-woo, a workaholic father, and his daughter Su-an, who embark on a train journey to Busan. As a sudden zombie apocalypse erupts across the country, the train becomes a battleground for survival, revealing the passengers' desperate attempts to protect themselves while facing moral dilemmas, sacrifices, and the raw essence of humanity in the face of an overwhelming disaster. Seok-woo transforms from a detached, self-centered man to a courageous and selfless protector as he fights not only to keep his daughter safe but also to help others amidst the chaos, ultimately displaying the resilience of the human spirit in the darkest of times.

## Cast

* Gong Yoo as Seok-woo
* Jung Yu-mi as Seong-kyeong
* Ma Dong-seok as Yoon Sang-hwa
* Kim Su-an as Su-an
* Choi Woo-shik as Min Yong-guk
* Sohee as Kim Jin-hee
* Kim Eui-sung as Yon-suk
* Choi Gwi-hwa as a homeless man
* Jang Hyuk-jin as Ki-chul
* Park Myung-sin as Jong-gil
* Ye Soo-jung as In-gil
* Jeong Seok-yong as the captain of the KTX
* Han Seong-soo as the KTX train Team Leader
* Kim Chang-hwan as Deputy Kim Jin-mo
* Shim Eun-kyung as a runaway girl
* Lee Joo-shil as Seok-woo's mother
* Woo Do im as Min-ji
* Cha Chung-hwa as Middle aged woman
* Kim Joo-hun as Baseball coach
* Han Ji-eun as Woman wearing headphones

## Production

"Train to Busan" was directed by Yeon Sang-ho and released in 2016. The film was a major success, not just in South Korea but internationally as well, receiving critical acclaim for its storytelling, character development, and intense, heart-pounding action.

In terms of production, the film's director, Yeon Sang-ho, was known for his animated films before making "Train to Busan." This transition to a live-action film was a significant shift for him. The screenplay was written by Park Joo-suk, and the production was a collaborative effort between several companies including Next Entertainment World and RedPeter Film.

Filming took place primarily in South Korea, utilizing real train sets and stations to create a sense of authenticity. The production team faced challenges in shooting action sequences within the confined space of a train while maintaining high energy and tension throughout the film.

The casting was crucial to the film's success. Acclaimed actors like Gong Yoo (who played Seok-woo) and Ma Dong-seok (as Sang-hwa) brought depth and authenticity to their characters, contributing significantly to the emotional resonance of the story.

The success of "Train to Busan" led to a prequel, "Seoul Station," and a standalone sequel called "Peninsula," expanding the world established in the original film. The franchise's popularity showcased the global appeal of South Korean cinema and solidified Yeon Sang-ho's reputation as a director capable of blending intense action with emotional storytelling.

## Reception

"Train to Busan" received widespread critical acclaim upon its release. Critics and audiences alike praised the film for its fresh take on the zombie genre, its intense action sequences, well-developed characters, and emotional depth.

The film was particularly lauded for its ability to combine thrilling horror elements with a heartfelt narrative, focusing on the human drama amidst a zombie apocalypse. Critics appreciated its social commentary on class divides and human behavior in times of crisis.

Commercially, "Train to Busan" was a massive success both in South Korea and internationally. It became a box office hit, grossing significantly beyond its production budget. Its success was not limited to Asian markets, as it gained attention and popularity worldwide, attracting audiences who were not typically fans of zombie or horror genres.

The film's performances, especially Gong Yoo's portrayal of Seok-woo, received praise for their emotional depth and resonance. Additionally, the tension-filled sequences within the confined spaces of the train added a unique and claustrophobic intensity to the film, elevating the overall viewing experience.

Critics also appreciated the directorial prowess of Yeon Sang-ho, noting his transition from animated films to live-action and his ability to craft a gripping and emotionally resonant narrative.

Overall, "Train to Busan" was celebrated as a standout film in the zombie genre, earning praise for its storytelling, character development, and its ability to evoke genuine emotions from its audience while delivering thrilling action sequences.

## References

1. ↑ https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Train\_to\_Busan#