Finecut, a prominent sales company based in Seoul, has successfully finalized a series of international distribution agreements for two significant cinematic works: the drama 'Journey There,' starring Justin H. Min, and Hong Sangsoo's 'Nowhere to Lay My Eyes,' an acclaimed film from the Locarno Film Festival. These strategic sales were announced on the concluding day of TIFFCOM, the influential content market held in conjunction with the Tokyo International Film Festival, underscoring the global interest these films have garnered.
Finecut Orchestrates Global Distribution for Acclaimed Films at TIFFCOM
In a significant move for international cinema distribution, Finecut, a sales company headquartered in Seoul, recently concluded a series of pivotal deals at TIFFCOM, the content market associated with the Tokyo International Film Festival. The agreements, announced on October 29, 2026, the final day of the market, secure broader audiences for two remarkable films: Kim Jin-yu's poignant drama 'Journey There' and Hong Sangsoo's critically lauded 'Nowhere to Lay My Eyes.'
For 'Journey There,' a film featuring Justin H. Min in his inaugural Korean production, distribution rights have been successfully acquired by KDDI Corporation in Japan, Lev Cinema in Israel, Izagur Media in Mongolia, and Andrews Film in Taiwan. Additionally, Kairos Distribution has secured the rights for inflight entertainment, further expanding the film's reach. Directed by Kim Jin-yu, this drama tells the story of a middle-aged woman embarking on a personal journey after a profound loss, finding unexpected solace in new surroundings. The film, which premiered in South Korea on October 28, has also been recognized with invitations to the Paris Korean Film Festival and the London Korean Film Festival, following its appearances at the Moscow and New York Asian Film Festivals.
Hong Sangsoo's 35th feature, 'Nowhere to Lay My Eyes,' also achieved considerable international sales. New distribution partners include Kligger for Argentina, Carlotta Films for France, Mimosa Films for Japan, and The Stone and the Plot for Portugal. These recent acquisitions build upon previously announced deals with Filmgarten in Austria, Hugoeast in China, Cinema Guild for North America, Atalante in Spain, Cola Films in Taiwan, and the Institute of Contemporary Arts in the U.K. The film garnered significant recognition at the 79th Locarno Film Festival, where it was awarded prizes for best direction, best performance for Kim Minhee, and the independent Ecumenical Jury Prize. Produced by Jeonwonsa Film Co., 'Nowhere to Lay My Eyes' reunites Hong with frequent collaborators Kim Minhee and Kwon Haehyo, while also marking his first partnership with Choi Myeonggil.
Looking ahead, Finecut is preparing for the American Film Market, where its upcoming slate includes the animated feature 'Long Long Night,' set for its initial market screening in an English-dubbed version. The company will also be showcasing July Jung's Cannes Directors’ Fortnight selection, 'Dora,' and the fantasy period romance 'Wi-Fi Love in the Palace,' featuring The Boyz member Kim Young-hoon.
These successful international sales for 'Journey There' and 'Nowhere to Lay My Eyes' highlight the growing global appetite for diverse cinematic narratives and the crucial role that sales companies like Finecut play in bringing these stories to audiences worldwide. It also underscores the vibrant and dynamic nature of the Asian film industry, particularly from South Korea, on the international stage.
