Late Autumn (2010 Film)

Late Autumn (Korean: 만추; RR: Manchu) is a 2010 romantic drama film directed by Kim Tae-yong. It is the fourth screen adaptation of the 1966 South Korean film of the same name directed by Lee Man-hee. Unlike its predecessors, the 2010 production is set in the United States and features dialogue spoken primarily in English.

Promotional poster for Late Autumn — Promotional poster for the 2010 film Late Autumn.

Plot

Anna Chen (Tang Wei) is a woman serving a prison sentence for the death of her husband, which occurred following a violent confrontation regarding her past relationship with a former lover. Seven years into her sentence, Anna receives a three-day furlough to attend her mother's funeral in Seattle, Washington.

While traveling by bus to Seattle, she encounters Hoon (Hyun Bin), a Korean immigrant working as a gigolo who is currently evading the husband of a wealthy client. The two strangers form an unexpected connection during their brief time together in the city.

Tang Wei as Anna Chen — Tang Wei portrays the character Anna Chen.

Production

The film was a collaborative effort co-financed by South Korean production companies Boram Entertainment and M&FC, alongside the U.S.-based North by Northwest Entertainment. Principal photography commenced on January 12, 2010, in Seattle. Production concluded on March 1, 2010, on Whidbey Island, Washington, where the film's final epilogue scene was captured.

Hyun Bin as Hoon — Hyun Bin portrays the character Hoon.

Release and Reception

Late Autumn held its world premiere at the 2010 Toronto International Film Festival on September 10, 2010. Following its festival run, the film was released in South Korea on February 17, 2011. It later saw a significant release in China on March 23, 2012, where it achieved commercial success, grossing approximately 30 million yuan in its opening days.

Scene from Late Autumn — A scene from the film featuring the leads.