Front Row Review of films No Other Choice, The History of Sound and Julian Barnes' final novel
Jan 22, 2026
Larushka Ivan-Zadeh, a savvy film critic, and Lawrence Norfolk, an insightful novelist, dive into Park Chan-wook's thrilling film, No Other Choice, discussing its genre-bending style and humanized violence. They also analyze Julian Barnes' poignant last novel, exploring themes of memory and love amid mortality. As Oscar nominations spark lively debate, they dissect frontrunners and surprises while also questioning the effectiveness of a new £1.5 billion cultural funding initiative. Expect humor, depth, and plenty of cultural insights!
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Park's Genre-Mashing Mastery
- Park Chan-wook blends pulp genres into high art with daring visual compositions and tonal shifts.
- Larushka Ivan-Zadeh calls the film dazzling, audacious and masterfully coherent despite frequent tonal jolts.
Humanity Inside Brutal Performance
- Lee Byung-hun's central performance humanises a character who commits brutal acts.
- Lawrence Norfolk says the actor keeps the role believable even during grisly scenes.
Painterly Control And Colour
- Park's films feel meticulously composed with painterly colour and controlled movement.
- Larushka Ivan-Zadeh likens his visuals to Sirk and Almodóvar for heightened melodrama and colour.
