The Singapore International Film Festival (SGIFF) is standing by its decision to screen South Korean political thriller The Assassin(s) as its opening film, despite calls from South Korea’s conservative opposition People Power Party (PPP) to withdraw it over allegations of historical distortion.
The film, directed by Hur Jin-ho and starring Yoo Hae-jin, Park Hae-il and Lee Min-ho, has drawn criticism in South Korea over its fictionalised portrayal of a real-life 1974 assassination attempt on then president Park Chung-hee, which resulted in the death of his wife, first lady Yuk Young-soo.
SGIFF said it was aware of the discussions surrounding the film but would retain it as the opening title of its 37th edition, which runs from October 21 to November 1.
“SGIFF respects the creative vision of the filmmakers behind The Assassin(s), which remains the festival opening film of our 37th edition,” the festival said.