‘Rebound’ Film to Return to South Korean Theaters for Third Anniversary
Director Jang Hang-jun’s 2023 sports drama, Rebound, is set for a re-release in South Korean theaters to commemorate its third anniversary on April 5, 2023. The announcement comes as the director’s latest film, The Man Who Lives with the King, approaches 10 million viewers at the box office.
The Story Behind Rebound
Rebound is based on the true story of the Busan Jungang High School basketball team and their remarkable run to the 2012 national championships final. The team faced significant challenges, competing with only six players despite being considered the weakest in the competition. The film depicts their eight-day journey and struggle for success.
Creative Team and Initial Reception
The film was directed by Jang Hang-jun, with a screenplay co-written by Kim Eun-hee and Kwon Seong-hui. Despite the strong creative team, Rebound initially underperformed at the box office, attracting approximately 700,000 viewers. Director Jang Hang-jun later expressed his disappointment with the film’s initial reception, stating he was “devastated” by the opening day numbers.
Renewed Interest and Re-Release
The success of Jang Hang-jun’s recent film, The Man Who Lives with the King, has sparked renewed interest in Rebound. BA Entertainment CEO Jang Won-seok announced plans for a “minor re-release” to celebrate the film’s third anniversary. Online reactions to the re-release have been mixed, with some expressing excitement and others questioning the timing.
About the Film
- Original Title: 리바운드 (Ribaundeu)
- Director: Jang Hang-jun
- Screenwriters: Kim Eun-hee, Kwon Seong-hui
- Starring: Ahn Jae-hong, Lee Shin-young, Jeong Jin-woon, Jung Gun-joo, Kim Taek, Kim Min, Ahn Ji-ho
- Release Date: April 5, 2023
- Running Time: 122 minutes
- Box Office (as of 2023): US$5.3 million
The re-release of Rebound offers audiences a second chance to experience the inspiring true story of the Busan Jungang High School basketball team and potentially re-evaluate the film’s merits.