Finecut Adds Hong Sangsoo Film and Animation to Berlinale Slate

Finecut, a leading sales company from South Korea, has picked up two new films for the European Film Market at the 76th Berlin International Film Festival. The titles are Hong Sangsoo's latest work, 'The Day She Returns,' selected for the Panorama section, and the 3D animated feature 'Long Long Night.' The market runs from February 12 to 18, 2026, in Berlin, where buyers from around the world gather to close deals on upcoming releases.

Background

The European Film Market, or EFM, is a major hub for film sales during the Berlinale. It brings together distributors, producers, and sales agents each February. This year, the event starts just days from now, with the kick-off on February 11. Finecut has built a strong name in the industry by handling Korean films that find fans overseas. They often focus on works by top directors and fresh animation projects.

Hong Sangsoo is a key figure in Korean cinema. He has made over 20 films, many shown at top festivals like Cannes and Berlin. His style uses simple stories about everyday life, often with repeating scenes and personal talks. 'The Day She Returns' fits this pattern. It follows a woman who comes back to her hometown after time away. The story looks at family ties and old memories through quiet moments.

'Long Long Night' comes from a popular Korean novel that won prizes for its take on history and human struggle. The book tells of people living through tough times in the past. The film turns this into a 3D animation, with detailed worlds and moving characters. Directors worked hard to keep the book's heart while adding visual effects that pull viewers in.

Finecut saw value in both projects early on. They got rights after seeing early cuts and festival picks. The company has a track record with animation and art films. Past sales include hits that reached theaters in Europe and North America.

Key Details

Hong Sangsoo's 'The Day She Returns'

The film stars familiar faces from Hong's past works, including actress Kim Minhee. Shooting took place over a few weeks in a small Korean town. It runs about 90 minutes and uses Hong's usual low-key approach. No big effects or action—just real talks and walks by the sea. Berlinale picked it for Panorama, a section for bold new films outside the main competition. Screenings start February 13, with industry views first.

Finecut plans private shows for buyers during the market. They expect interest from art-house distributors in France, Germany, and the UK. The film already has buzz from Hong's loyal followers.

'Long Long Night' Animation

This 3D feature adapts the novel by author Lee Jung-myung, which won the Munhakdongne award. The story spans decades, mixing real events with made-up lives. Animation studios in Seoul handled the work, using new tools for fluid motion and deep colors. It clocks in at 85 minutes, aimed at families and older viewers.

Finecut bought world rights excluding Asia. They highlight the film's mix of education and story, good for schools and festivals. Early test screenings got praise for emotional scenes and history lessons.

"These two films show different sides of Korean storytelling—one deep and personal, the other bold and visual," said a Finecut representative. "We think buyers will see the potential for their markets."

Finecut's stand at the EFM will feature posters, trailers, and talks with directors. They join other Korean firms pushing a strong lineup this year.

What This Means

Adding these titles gives Finecut more pull at the EFM. Hong's name draws steady buyers who know his work sells well in limited releases. The animation opens doors to family markets, where Korean content is growing. Together, they balance art and commercial appeal.

For the Berlinale, Panorama gets another strong Korean entry. The section often spotlights Asia, and this fits the trend. Buyers from the US and Europe look for fresh picks amid a busy market. New American distributors may push harder this year, seeking standouts.

Korean sales firms like Finecut benefit from home success. Hits like 'Parasite' opened eyes worldwide. Now, they sell more types of films, from dramas to cartoons. This slate could lead to deals worth millions.

Directors gain too. Hong reaches new audiences without big studio help. The animation team gets global eyes on their first big project. Festivals like Berlin act as launchpads for wider runs.

The market faces competition from other events like Cannes. But EFM's early spot helps films hit summer slots. Finecut aims to lock deals fast, setting up the year's sales.

Overall, these moves signal Korean cinema's reach. Finecut's choices mix proven talent with new voices, ready for international screens. The next week in Berlin will show how they land.