Take Off (2009 Film)

Take Off (Korean: 국가대표; RR: Gukgadaepyo) is a 2009 South Korean sports drama film directed by Kim Yong-Hwa. The narrative is inspired by the true story of the formation of South Korea's first national ski jumping team, though the film incorporates fictionalized characters and events.

Plot

Set in 1997, the story follows the efforts of Muju County to host the 2002 Winter Olympics. When the International Olympic Committee (IOC) questions the viability of the bid due to the absence of a national ski jumping team, a team is hastily assembled to meet the requirements.

Production

The film was directed by Kim Yong-Hwa, who also co-wrote the screenplay with Hwang Song-Jae and Kim Sun-Jung. A notable aspect of the production is the appearance of actor Kim Yong-Geon and his son, Ha Jung-Woo, marking the first time the two performed together in a feature film.

An extended director's cut was released in South Korean theaters on September 10, 2009, featuring additional and re-edited scenes. This version was screened in digital theaters.

Reception and Box Office

Take Off premiered on July 30, 2009. During its opening weekend (July 31 – August 2), it debuted at number two at the South Korean box office, selling 594,094 tickets. By its third weekend, the film reached the number one position, surpassing Haeundae with 913,447 tickets sold. By the end of its theatrical run, the film recorded a total of 8,442,226 ticket sales, ranking as one of the highest-grossing films in South Korean history at the time.

Cast