'Paradise Lost', From 'Train to Busan' Director, Lands U.S. Distribution

According to an exclusive report from Variety, Well Go USA Entertainment has acquired the North American distribution rights to Paradise Lost, the new film from South Korean director Yeon Sang-ho (Train to Busan, Hellbound), ahead of its world premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival. The feature will screen on September 13 at the Royal Alexandra Theatre as part of the event’s Special Presentations lineup.

Starring Kim Hyun-joo and Bae Hyeon-seong, the psychological thriller follows a mother whose son mysteriously vanishes along with a bus full of children. Years later, he returns — but changed in ways she could never have imagined.

"I’m thrilled to bring Paradise Lost to North American audiences through Well Go USA," Yeon said. "The film dives into the abyss of a mother torn between the son she recreated in an AI-powered virtual world and the son who returns after being presumed dead."

The acquisition continues the distributor’s partnership with the director, whose previous U.S. releases include Train to Busan, The Ugly and Colony. Well Go USA president Doris Pfardrescher described the film as "a gripping and deeply human mystery."

Paradise Lost will be released in the U.S. following its run at the Canadian festival.