Park Chan-wook’s No Other Choice Wins International People’s Choice Award at TIFF 2025

The Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) 2025 concluded its awards ceremony, highlighting a range of cinematic achievements. Among the most notable recognitions was the inaugural International People’s Choice Award, awarded to South Korean filmmaker Park Chan-wook for his film No Other Choice. This satirical black comedy thriller captivated audiences and secured its place as a standout title at this year’s festival.

Park, who both directed and co-wrote No Other Choice, adapted the film from Donald Westlake’s novel, The Ax. The film features a stellar cast, including Lee Byung-hun, known for his role in Squid Game, and Son Ye-jin, star of Crash Landing On You. With a unique blend of dark humour and psychological depth, the film resonated with TIFF audiences, earning their votes to be recognized as their top choice among international selections.

Recognition for Diverse Storytelling

The People’s Choice Awards at TIFF, a key indicator of potential success during the awards season, also acknowledged several other impressive films. Joachim Trier’s Sentimental Value claimed the first runner-up position, while Indian filmmaker Neeraj Ghaywan’s Homebound secured the second runner-up spot. Homebound tells the poignant story of two childhood friends from a North Indian village who confront systemic challenges. The film is set for a theatrical release on September 26, 2025, building anticipation ahead of its wide availability. It stars Vishal Jethwa, Ishaan Khatter, and Janhvi Kapoor.

In addition to these accolades, Korean Canadian filmmaker Min Sook Lee received an honourable mention in the Best Canadian Feature Film category for her work, There are No Words. This recognition further underscores the diversity of storytelling celebrated at TIFF this year.

Implications for Future Success

With No Other Choice leading the awards, TIFF 2025 has reinforced its position as a significant platform for innovative cinema. The film’s victory is already generating discussions about its potential impact during the upcoming Oscars. As the festival continues to gain international prominence, it shines a light on the power of storytelling to connect cultures and inspire audiences globally.

The success of No Other Choice is a testament to Park Chan-wook’s vision and skill as a filmmaker, marking a significant moment in his distinguished career and the broader landscape of global cinema.