The occult mystery film “Exhuma” also know as Pamyo, (written and directed by Jang Jae Hyun, produced by Showbox and Fine Town Productions) is making waves internationally with confirmed sales to 133 countries, theatrical releases in major markets, and invitations to prestigious film festivals.
Global Sales and Theatrical Releases
“Exhuma” has secured distribution deals in a staggering 133 countries, ensuring its global reach. The film has already opened in Mongolia (February 23), Indonesia (February 28), and Taiwan (March 8). Upcoming releases include Australia and New Zealand, Singapore, Malaysia, Brunei (March 14), North America, the United Kingdom and Ireland, Vietnam (March 15), the Philippines (March 20), and Thailand (March 21). Hong Kong, Macau, and Cambodia are scheduled for April releases.
Critical Acclaim and Audience Response
“Exhuma” has received rave reviews from international distributors, who praise its fresh theme, captivating performances by Choi Min Shik, Kim Go Eun, Yoo Hae Jin, and Lee Do Hyun, and Jang Jae-hyun’s masterful direction.
Well Go USA, the North American distributor, commented, “‘The Ancestral’ is a film filled with unexpected twists and turns. Even the most hardcore occult film fans in North America will be captivated by its surprises.”
Splendid Film Gmbh, the German distributor, lauded the film as “a Korean supernatural occult film led by ‘Oldboy’ star Choi Min-sik and an excellent cast.”
MOCKINGBIRD PICTURES CO., the Vietnamese distributor, expressed excitement, stating, “We are thrilled to bring one of the best Korean films of this year to Vietnamese theaters.”
Showbox Event Management shared, “Since its world premiere and market screenings at the Berlin International Film Festival, ‘The Ancestral’ has received overwhelming interest, leading to a flood of festival invitations and copy-write inquiries. The film has already created a sensation by becoming the all-time highest-grossing Korean film in Indonesia after its opening there. We are looking forward to its upcoming releases in Asia, North America, Australia, and other countries.”
Film Festival Invitations
“Exhuma” has also been invited to several prestigious film festivals, further solidifying its global recognition. The film will be officially selected for the competition section of the 26th Udine Far East Film Festival, taking place from April 24 to May 2. The Udine Far East Film Festival is the largest film festival in Europe dedicated to Asian cinema, and has previously invited acclaimed Korean films such as “The Night Owl,” “The Outlaws,” “The Man Standing Next,” and “Confidential Assignment.”
Sabrina Baracetti, the executive director of the Udine Far East Film Festival, explained the reason for the invitation, “‘The Ancestral’ is a fascinating invitation that takes us into Korean history, culture, and faith. Along with the impeccable performances by the cast boasting a brilliant lineup, director Jang Jae-hyun and cinematographer Lee Mo-gae invite us into a breathtaking world of the occult, leaving everyone in awe.”
Exhuma Synopsis
After a series of paranormal events, a wealthy LA family seeks the help of a rising shaman duo, Hwa Rim and Bong Gil, to save their newborn child. Upon arrival, Hwa Rim discerns a dark ancestral entity clinging to the family through a phenomenon known as ‘Grave Calling’.
To perform an exhumation and appease the restless spirit, Hwa Rim enlists the assistance of the esteemed geomancer Sang Deok and mortician Yeong Geun. Unfortunately, their investigation leads them to a disreputable location in a remote Korean village. Unwittingly, the exhumation disrupts the burial ground, unleashing a malevolent force that had been long suppressed.
