In the wake of Snowpiercer’s strong reception in North America, director Bong Joon Ho has signed with tenpercenter WME, one of the top talent agencies in Hollywood, in what Deadline reports to have been a ‘competitive signing’. He was previously represented by CAA (Creative Artists Agency).

 

Following a protracted tête-à-tête with Harvey Weinstein and TWC over the North American cut of Snowpiercer, Bong’s original vision bowed in the States during the summer, almost a year after it earned almost USD 60 million in Korea. Though it was never granted a wide theatrical release (part of the compromise that allowed the film to screen uncut), the film was given a strong VOD push by TWC-Radius and has accrued over USD 11 million in the market to date.

 

Bong’s most recent project was SHIM Sung-bo’s maritime thriller Haemoo, which he co-wrote and executive produced. The film was recently selected as Korea’s official selection to next year’s Academy Awards and has been invited to numerous illustrious film events, including the Toronto, San Sebastian, Busan and Vancouver International Film Festivals.

 

After winning several international accolades with 2003’s Memories of Murder, Bong cracked the US market with his blockbuster The Host (2006), which became the second most successful Korean film in that market (now third) and led to his being represented by CAA. Given his recent move to WME, Bong will no doubt be fielding a number of offers for upcoming Hollywood projects but previous reports suggest he may shoot a smaller film in his native Korea first.