Macao Fest names “Train to Busan” as Asian Blockbuster of 2016

PanARMENIAN.Net - South Korean horror hit “Train to Busan” has been named as “Asian Blockbuster Film 2016” by the inaugural International Film Festival & Award Macao, Variety said.

Live-action debut work by animation maverick Yeon Sang-ho (“Seoul Station”), the zombie actioner was a huge hit not only in its home country where it earned a total of $80.1 million from ticket sales. In many other territories in the region, it became the biggest non-domestic Asian title.

• Following the box office success in Asia, the film is also set to receive an English-language remake by France’s Gaumont.

The festival also brings focus to “Train” through an industry forum on Dec. 10. Titled, “Development of Genre Cinema in Asia—Train to Busan: Return ticket for Asian commercial cinema,” panelists will discuss the film’s success in connection with audiences and whether genre films can serve as a role model for the growth of Asian cinema. The panelists include “Train” producer Lee Dong-ha and representatives of the film’s Asian distributors.

The award will be presented during the IFFAM’s closing night and awards ceremony on Dec. 13, with Lee and the film’s main cast Kim Su-an, Kim Eui-sung and Choi Woo-sik in attendence.