Lloyd Lee Choi’s ‘Lucky Lu’ Lands French Distribution Ahead of Cannes’ Directors’ Fortnight Premiere (EXCLUSIVE)

by

The movie “Lucky Lu,” directed by Lloyd Lee Choi (a Korean-Canadian filmmaker from the U.S.) for his first feature film, has obtained French distribution rights prior to its world debut in the Directors’ Fortnight section of the Cannes Film Festival.

Global Constellation handles international sales, while WME is representing North American rights.

The story of ‘Lucky Lu’ is a gripping, 48-hour ordeal set in the gritty underworld of New York City. When the bike, his only means of income as an E-delivery driver, gets stolen, Lu finds himself in a desperate situation. His family, who have been apart for years and are about to arrive from Asia, add more pressure to his already tense circumstances. As time runs out, Lu battles against the city’s apathy to retrieve what was taken from him. He must traverse a broken community and a system that seems to have abandoned him, all while trying to keep his life from falling apart.

Vladimir Kokh, head of KMBO, expressed that it’s been quite some time since they’ve been so profoundly touched by the vision and emotional power of a movie. He firmly believes this movie signifies the rise of an exceptional new director. ‘Lucky Lu’ is a treasure trove of emotion and resilience – a film that stirs your emotions deeply and instills in you a fresh surge of strength and optimism.”

Or, more casually:

“Vladimir Kokh, CEO of KMBO, shared his thoughts on the movie ‘Lucky Lu’, saying it’s been a long time since they’ve felt so deeply moved by a film’s message and emotional punch. He thinks this movie showcases a promising new director, and it’s an emotionally charged and inspiring piece that leaves you feeling stronger and hopeful.

Previously, KMBO has introduced a number of first-time films to the world, including “Sleeping Giant” by Andrew Cividino, “Lady Macbeth” by William Oldroyd, “Murina” by Antoneta Alamat Kusijanovic, “The Braves” by Anais Volpé, and “Disco Boy” by Giacomo Abbruzzese.

The movie builds upon Choi’s live-action short “Same Old,” which initially debuted in the 2022 Cannes Short Film Competition and was later showcased at Toronto (receiving an honorable mention), New York Film Festival, Raindance (winning best short film). Previously, Choi’s latest short, “Closing Dynasty,” had won the Crystal Bear for best short film at the 73rd Berlinale and subsequently garnered the Audience Award at SXSW, the Grand Jury Prize at AFI Fest, and was recognized as the best U.S. short in Palm Springs. Now, you can watch this movie on Netflix.

Titled “Lucky Lu,” this film features Chang Chen (“Dune,” “The Assassin,” “The Grandmaster,” “2046”) as the main character, alongside Fala Chen (“Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire,” “Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings”), while also introducing rising star Carabelle Manna.

The film is created by Destin Daniel Cretton, Nina Yang Bongiovi, Asher Goldstein, Tony Yang, Ron Najor, and Jeyun Munford. These individuals are involved in projects such as “Just Mercy,” “Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings,” “Sorry to Bother You,” “Passing,” “Short Term 12,” “Blue Sun Palace,” “Same Old,” “Adjunct,” and an upcoming “Naruto.”

or

This movie is brought to you by Destin Daniel Cretton, Nina Yang Bongiovi, Asher Goldstein, Tony Yang, Ron Najor, and Jeyun Munford. They have been associated with films like “Just Mercy,” “Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings,” “Sorry to Bother You,” “Passing,” “Short Term 12,” “Blue Sun Palace,” “Same Old,” “Adjunct,” and an upcoming “Naruto.

The productions by Hisako Films, Significant Productions, Cedar Road, and Big Buddha Pictures are at the helm of production, collaborating with the AUM Group, Taiwan Mobile, Peng Zhao Group, and Gold House for this project.

Significant creative elements are the cinematography by Norm Li, editing by Brendan Mills, set design by Evaline Wu Huang, clothing designs by Vera Chow, original scores by Charles Humenry, music coordination by Maxwell Gosling, and co-production by Ece Turan Rihaly.

Read More

2025-05-12 11:12