Netflix is making significant strides in the Korean film industry by pouring resources into productions that bypass traditional theaters. As the attendance at cinemas continues to decline—with ticket sales for domestic films now at around 60% of last year’s numbers—Netflix is ramping up its investment in original Korean content. This year, their offerings have included a variety of genres, spanning from supernatural thrillers like “Revelations” to light-hearted high school romances in “Love Untangled.” The streaming service’s latest venture culminates in the high-octane disaster film “The Great Flood,” characterized by mega tsunamis and collapsing skyscrapers, reminiscent of the large-scale disaster films that once dominated theater screens.
Director Kim Byung-woo described “The Great Flood” as a blend of disaster and science fiction, aiming to deliver the thrills associated with both genres at a press conference in Seoul. He expressed hope that the film would leave audiences with a sense of wonder. Kim is known for his knack for high-stakes storytelling, having previously directed “The Terror Live,” which revolved around a live broadcast turned into a ticking bomb scenario, and “Take Point,” a war-themed thriller set in a bunker.
The film charts the journey of An-na, an AI researcher portrayed by Kim Da-mi, who finds herself trapped in a flood-ravaged Seoul. As An-na grapples with the disastrous reality caused by an asteroid impact melting Antarctic ice caps, she learns that she may hold the key to humankind’s survival. Amidst the chaos, she navigates the complexities of motherhood, a challenging role that brought Kim Da-mi to reflect deeply, stating that portraying a mother was initially daunting for her.
Joining Kim Da-mi in the film is Park Hae-soo, an actor well-recognized for his work on Netflix, notably in “Squid Game.” He described the initial script as cryptic but compelling, highlighting how it drew him in with its unique tension. They are joined by a young actor, Kwon Eun-seong, who plays An-na’s son and forms an integral part of the story.
As the film progresses, viewers can expect a narrative shift toward science fiction, engaging with complex themes that mirror An-na’s own confusion as she confronts her reality—a design choice made deliberately by Kim to foster an emotional connection with audiences. He suggested that while some might initially find the plot convoluted, embracing that confusion would lead to a more rewarding experience as the film unfolds.
“The Great Flood” premieres on Netflix this Friday, showcasing a powerful mix of emotional depth and thrilling disaster that aims to resonate with viewers amidst the ongoing evolution of cinema, particularly in the streaming landscape.