Netflix Throws Their Support Behind Bong Joon-ho's New Film 'Okja'

Netflix is movin' on up to the big leagues. Netflix has announced (via The Wrap) that they are partnering with Brad Pitt‘s production company, Plan B Entertainment, to develop the next film from Bong Joon-ho, the "creature feature" titled Okja. We've already been hearing about casting for Okja throughout this past year, and now it's moving forward with Netflix backing it up to the tune of $50 million. Part of the attraction is the cast - Jake Gyllenhaal, Paul Dano, Kelly Macdonald and Bill Nighy, as well as Tilda Swinton; though the lead character is actually a young Korean girl who befriends a monster with "a kind spirit" named Okja.

"It really is a fantastic opportunity for me as a filmmaker," said Bong. "For 'Okja,' I needed a bigger budget than I had for 'Snowpiercer' and also complete creative freedom. Netflix offered me the two conditions that are difficult to have in hand simultaneously. Plan B Entertainment has also produced bold and daring films. I expect the adventurousness of Plan B to blend with 'Okja.'"

Bong Joon-ho's Okja is expected to start production in April in both the United States and Korea. Casting for the lead role hasn't been confirmed yet, but we'll be watching for updates. Netflix is supposed to give the film a theatrical release in the first half of 2017, so there's still a while to wait. But this sounds like it's could be awesome, and Netflix is captivated and convinced that it's worth the investment so I say bring on the monster. One of Bong Joon-ho's best films is The Host, another monster movie, which really showed off his style and great potential. Keep watch for more updates on Okja from here leading up to its arrival in 2017.

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