The Peter Pan Formula (2005 Film)

The Peter Pan Formula (Korean: 피터팬의 공식; RR: Piteopaeneui Gongsik) is a 2005 South Korean drama film written and directed by Cho Chang-Ho. The film is categorized as a coming-of-age story, focusing on the emotional and social challenges faced by a young athlete.

The Peter Pan Formula promotional poster — Promotional poster for The Peter Pan Formula.

Plot

The story follows Han-Soo (played by On Joo-Wan), a high school student and promising member of his school's swim team. His life takes a dramatic turn when he decides to quit the team just before a national competition. Shortly after, he discovers that his mother has attempted suicide, leaving her in a comatose state. Forced to navigate adulthood prematurely, Han-Soo assumes responsibility for his mother's care and the household's financial burdens. During this period of isolation and transition, he develops an attraction to his older neighbor, Yoo In-Hee (Kim Ho-Jung).

On Joo-Wan as Han-Soo — On Joo-Wan portrays the protagonist, Han-Soo.

Cast

The film features an ensemble cast led by On Joo-Wan and Kim Ho-Jung. Key cast members include:

On Joo-Wan as Kim Han-Soo
Kim Ho-Jung as Yoo In-Hee
Ok Go-Woon as Yoon Mi-Jin
Son Hee-Seon as Han-Soo's mother
Cho Seong-Ha as Coach Park
Seo Jun-Young as Yong-Ki

Kim Ho-Jung as Yoo In-Hee — Kim Ho-Jung portrays the neighbor, Yoo In-Hee.

Ok Go-Woon as Yoon Mi-Jin — Ok Go-Woon portrays Yoon Mi-Jin.

Son Hee-Seon as Mother — Son Hee-Seon portrays Han-Soo's mother.

Production

The film was directed by Cho Chang-Ho, who also wrote the screenplay. It was produced by a team including Park Dong-Ho, Lee Seung-Jae, Lim Choong-Geun, and Bae Jung-Min. The cinematography was handled by Kim Yong-Chul and Park Sang-Hoon. The film had a production budget of approximately US$0.5 million and was distributed by CJ Entertainment.

Scene from The Peter Pan Formula — A scene from the film depicting the protagonist's environment.