No Face: Detective Thriller from Train to Busan Director
A gripping Korean thriller by Yeon Sang-ho arrives in Russia, pairing a tense murder mystery with social commentary on two Koreas—the rapid growth and those left behind.
On January 22, 2026, audiences in Russia will get a chance to see No Face, a Korean detective thriller from Yeon Sang-ho, the director behind Train to Busan. The film follows a man who investigates his mother’s long buried murder and uncovers painful truths from the past. It blends family drama with a sharp social lens on two Koreas.
Plot at a glance
A successful son launches his own inquiry after skeletal remains linked to his mother are found, drawing him into a web of memories, secrets, and moral dilemmas.
Director's vision: two Koreas
Director Yeon Sang-ho explains that the film contrasts a Korea booming with growth and a society where some people are pushed to the margins by progress. The movie invites viewers to consider who benefits from modernization and who bears its costs.
Cast and crew
The film features Park Jung-min, Kwon Hae-hyo, and Shin Hye-bin in leading roles, supported by a skilled supporting cast that helps bring the tense mystery to life.
Reception from abroad
International critics have praised the movie for its intelligent blend of mystery and social commentary. Forbes calls it a drama about people who reveal their darker sides; The Hollywood Reporter commends its balance of a past crime with sharp social critique; ScreenDaily recommends it to fans of thoughtful, high-concept thrillers.
What it means for English-speaking audiences
The film uses a steady pace, layered clues, and strong performances to engage viewers while tackling memory, family ties, and national identity. It offers both suspense and thought-provoking insight for learners of English and film fans alike.
Expert opinion
Expert: Film critic Mina Park notes that No Face uses suspense to reveal deep social wounds and the weight of memory. She adds that the movie invites viewers to reflect on who is forgotten in a rapidly modernizing society.
Short summary
No Face centers on a son who probes his mother’s past and uncovers hidden aspects of Korean society. The film blends a tense mystery with social critique, delivering both intrigue and meaningful commentary. It is a compelling pick for audiences who enjoy intelligent cinema about memory and progress.
Key takeaway: Progress can mask lasting wounds, and truth begins when memory is welcomed back into the story.