Is Hope (2026) another masterpiece from Na Hong-jin, or does the director of The Wailing push his ambitions too far?
In this Asian Movie Pulse video review, we examine Hope, the spectacular South Korean science fiction thriller starring Hwang Jung-min, Zo In-sung, Jung Ho-yeon, Michael Fassbender, Alicia Vikander and Cameron Britton.
Following its premiere at the 2026 Cannes Film Festival, Hope has attracted attention for its ambitious scale, intense action sequences, unusual extraterrestrial creatures and stunning cinematography by Hong Kyung-pyo.
Set in an isolated Korean coastal village, the story follows a local police chief and a group of hunters who encounter a mysterious alien threat. What begins as a terrifying struggle for survival gradually evolves into a much more complicated exploration of violence, identity and the meaning of humanity.
In this review, we discuss:
- Na Hong-jin’s return after The Wailing
- The spectacular opening and creature-hunting sequences
- The film’s portrayal of rural Korean society
- Influences from Attack on Titan and Avatar
- The combination of horror, action and dark comedy
- Hong Kyung-pyo’s exceptional cinematography
- The strengths and weaknesses of the alien visual effects
- Performances by Hwang Jung-min, Zo In-sung and the international cast
- Why the film’s excessive length undermines its considerable achievements
Hope combines some of the most impressive action filmmaking in recent Korean cinema with striking visual effects, psychological tension and an unusual moral reversal that challenges our sympathies. However, its repetitive action, inconsistent CGI and occasionally forced humor prevent it from fully realizing its ambitions.
Is Hope worth watching? Does it live up to The Wailing?
Watch our complete review to discover what works and what doesn’t in Na Hong-jin’s ambitious return.