Is the Korean Remake of Drishyam Ready with Its Director?

The Korean remake of the hit Indian thriller ‘Drishyam’ is set to be directed by Deok Noh, as confirmed by Choi Jae-won, president of Anthology Studios. This much-anticipated project will see a collaboration between South Korea’s Anthology and India’s Panorama Studios, and is expected to begin filming in 2024.

Last updated: 27 October 2023 (BST)

Overview of the Drishyam Franchise

‘Drishyam’ started as a Malayalam-language film released in 2013, written and directed by Jeetu Joseph. It was a ground-breaking narrative that revolved around a cable TV operator, played by Mohanlal, whose life spirals out of control following an accidental death involving his family. The film's gripping storyline and masterful direction led to its massive success, resulting in numerous remakes across various languages.

• The original Malayalam film was released in 2013.
• Multiple remakes have been produced in Kannada, Telugu, Tamil, Hindi, and Sinhala.
• The Hindi remake, starring Ajay Devgn, became one of the biggest Bollywood hits of 2022.
• The property has also been adapted in English and Chinese, showcasing its international appeal.
• The Korean version is set to start filming in 2024.

What Makes Drishyam Unique?

The appeal of ‘Drishyam’ lies in its intricate plot and moral dilemmas. The protagonist, Georgekutty, is a relatable character who resorts to extreme measures to protect his family from the law. The film’s success can be attributed to its ability to intertwine suspense, emotional depth, and ethical questions, prompting audiences to reflect on what they would do in similar situations.

Moreover, the narrative structure keeps viewers on the edge of their seats, with unexpected twists and turns that challenge their perceptions of right and wrong. This blend of suspense and moral complexity has made ‘Drishyam’ a compelling story that resonates across cultures, leading to its widespread remakes.

The Journey of the Remakes

‘Drishyam’ has transcended linguistic barriers, with successful remakes in various Indian languages and beyond. Each adaptation has brought its unique flavour while honouring the core storyline. Here’s a quick look at the remakes:

1. Kannada – Drishya (2014)

Starring Ravichandran, this version maintained the essence of the original while adding local nuances, making it a hit in Karnataka.

2. Telugu – Drushyam (2014)

With Venkatesh in the lead role, this remake also captured the audience's imagination, reinforcing the narrative’s relevance in the Telugu-speaking region.

3. Tamil – Papanasam (2015)

Kamal Haasan's portrayal brought a different perspective to the character, and the film was well-received, showcasing the adaptability of the story.

4. Hindi – Drishyam (2015)

This version, featuring Ajay Devgn, was a box office success and proved that the narrative could resonate with a broader audience in North India.

5. Sinhala – Dharmayuddhaya (2017)

Starring Jackson Anthony, this adaptation received acclaim for its storytelling and performance, further solidifying the franchise's international appeal.

6. Chinese – Sheep Without a Shepherd (2019)

This remake grossed an impressive $199 million, highlighting the universal themes of family and morality that the story encapsulates.

The Korean Remake: Expectations and Potential

As anticipation builds for the Korean remake, several factors suggest it could be a significant addition to the ‘Drishyam’ legacy. Deok Noh, known for her ability to handle complex narratives, will likely bring a fresh perspective to the story. Her previous works, such as the romantic comedy ‘Very Ordinary Couple’ and the thriller ‘The Exclusive: Beat the Devil’s Tattoo,’ demonstrate her versatility and skill in crafting engaging narratives.

Collaboration Between Studios

The partnership between Anthology Studios and Panorama Studios reflects a growing trend of cross-cultural collaborations in the film industry. With Choi Jae-won’s expertise and the backing of prominent Indian producers Kumar Mangat Pathak and Abhishek Pathak, expectations are high for a well-executed adaptation that retains the emotional depth of the original.

Filming and Release Timeline

Filming for the Korean remake is slated to begin in 2024. While specific release dates remain unconfirmed, the collaboration aims to create a compelling version that resonates with both Korean and international audiences. The production will likely benefit from the established popularity of the ‘Drishyam’ franchise, ensuring a built-in audience eager to see the new interpretation.

Why This Remake Matters

The Korean remake of ‘Drishyam’ is significant for several reasons. Firstly, it highlights the increasing globalisation of cinema, where stories can transcend cultural boundaries. Secondly, it provides an opportunity to explore the themes of family, morality, and the law through a distinct cultural lens, which may yield fresh insights and interpretations.

As the film industry continues to evolve, the success of remakes like ‘Drishyam’ demonstrates the potential for storytelling to bridge gaps between different cultures. This remake could serve as a catalyst for more international collaborations, paving the way for diverse narratives that reflect global experiences.

Conclusion

The Korean remake of ‘Drishyam’ stands at the intersection of tradition and innovation. While it pays homage to the original's powerful narrative, it also has the potential to introduce new layers of complexity relevant to Korean society. As we await more details about the film, one can only speculate how Deok Noh will interpret this beloved story for a new audience.

In a world where stories connect us, how do you think the themes of ‘Drishyam’ will resonate in a Korean context? #Drishyam #KoreanCinema #FilmRemake

FAQs

What is ‘Drishyam’ about?

‘Drishyam’ follows the story of a cable TV operator, Georgekutty, whose life takes a dark turn after an accidental death involving his family. The film explores themes of morality and family protection.

Who is directing the Korean remake of ‘Drishyam’?

The Korean remake will be directed by Deok Noh, known for her work in both romantic comedies and thrillers.

When will the Korean remake of ‘Drishyam’ be released?

Filming for the Korean remake is set to begin in 2024. A specific release date has not yet been announced.

What other languages have adapted ‘Drishyam’?

‘Drishyam’ has been remade in several languages, including Kannada, Telugu, Tamil, Hindi, Sinhala, and Chinese, each offering its unique take on the original story.

Who are the key producers behind the Korean remake?

The Korean remake is a collaboration between Anthology Studios, led by Choi Jae-won, and India’s Panorama Studios, backed by producers Kumar Mangat Pathak and Abhishek Pathak.

What themes does ‘Drishyam’ explore?

The film delves into themes of family, morality, and the lengths one will go to protect loved ones from the law, resonating with audiences across cultures.