Neon has just released the trailer for Kore-eda Hirokazu’s Broker. The Japanese filmmaker’s latest entry into the family drama genre received a warm response at Cannes.
The film even led to Song Kang-ho winning the prestigious Best Actor award, following previous recognition for his role in Parasite. Noted for being his first venture into Korean cinema, Kore-eda assembles a winning set of new acting collaborations within an alternate environment. The film revolves around adoptees and the baby box system, through which people can anonymously leave children to be taken care of by others. It promises an earnest, heartfelt and honest approach to such contentious subject matter.
The titular baby ‘brokers’, portrayed by Song and Gang Dong-won, cross paths with a single mother (Korean pop star IU, also known for her critically acclaimed turn in K-Drama My Mister) who, having second thoughts about leaving her child with these ‘brokers’, comes back to reclaim him. A heartfelt road trip ensues, during which this ragtag trio end up clashing and, in classic Kore-eda fashion, bonding together in the most peculiar ways, all while being pursued by two police detectives (Bae Doona and Lee Joo-young).
The trailer highlights the tonal range of the film, veering between tender comedy and quieter moments, emphasising the central focus on family. Glimpses of the heavier emotional beats can be observed throughout the trailer without giving too much away, leaving the viewer awaiting further plot surprises. The trailer also draws attention to Neon’s prior campaign for worldwide sensation Parasite, with leading man Song and cinematographer Hong Kyung-po getting a showcase through the beautiful Korean natural vistas displayed in the trailer footage.
Broker will be released in the US on 26 December.
Words by Calvin Law
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