Overview
- Noteworthy zombie films Train to Busan and its sequel Peninsula are set to debut on Netflix this February, promising excitement for fans of the horror genre.
- Train to Busan, released in 2016, became a sensation worldwide, while Peninsula introduces a gripping story of survival amid a zombie apocalypse.
- Plans for a remake of Train to Busan have been put on hold, as director Yeon Sang-ho explores new horror projects.
This February is a significant month for zombie enthusiasts, with Netflix welcoming two iconic films from the horror genre into its streaming roster.Train to Busan and its follow-up Peninsula have earned esteemed recognition within the zombie film category, intertwining action with a captivating narrative that critics laud as a highlight of South Korea’s flourishing horror cinema. Their addition to Netflix guarantees a fresh audience that may forever alter their perspectives on train journeys—and zombies alike.
What Makes the Train to Busan Films So Popular?
The Train to Busan franchise enjoys a devoted fanbase, and rightfully so. The original film, which debuted in 2016, follows a desperate father, Seok Woo, and his daughter, Su-an, as their seemingly ordinary train ride transforms into a struggle for survival amid a sudden zombie outbreak in South Korea. While the movie is packed with nail-biting action, it also serves as a poignant exploration of human nature’s extremes in life-or-death scenarios. This duality is exemplified by the selfless act of a pregnant woman contrasted with a businessman willing to put others in danger to save himself.
The film’s success was unprecedented, grossing an impressive $98.5 million globally, including $2.2 million from North American ticket sales. In South Korea, it attracted over 10 million viewers, solidifying its cultural significance. Critics praised its swift pacing, deep character development, and innovative take on a genre that had become somewhat stale. The film boasts a remarkable 95% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes, further reflecting its acclaim.
In 2020, Yeon Sang-ho released Peninsula, a standalone follow-up taking place four years after the events of the original. With the zombie threat now well-established, the film presents a thrilling mission: a soldier seeks to recover a truck laden with cash in a lawless land controlled by both zombies and desperate survivors. While Peninsula may lack some of the emotional resonance of the first film, it compensates with adrenaline-fueled action, reminiscent of Mad Max: Fury Road. The extended world-building and high-octane sequences helped it to amass a worldwide gross of $42 million, an impressive figure considering its release during the COVID-19 pandemic.
What’s Coming for Train to Busan in February?
February 11, 2025, will mark an exciting date for avid fans as Netflix adds both Train to Busan films to its catalog. This presents an excellent opportunity for newcomers and long-time followers of Korean horror and dystopian thrillers for a nostalgic revisit. With the popularity of shows like Squid Game Season 2, viewers will have the chance to enjoy performances from their beloved Korean stars once again.
What Lies Ahead for the Train to Busan Franchise?
The Train to Busan saga now includes the original film, Peninsula, and an animated prequel, Seoul Station, establishing itself as a mini-franchise. Yeon Sang-ho has hinted at a potential third installment, but concrete plans remain elusive. Originally, a Hollywood remake titled The Last Train to New York was expected to debut in April 2023, drawing interest from notable figures such as James Wan and Warner Bros. However, the project’s status is uncertain, indicating that it has likely been shelved, potentially facing pushback from fans concerned about the remake trend.
The discussion surrounding a Hollywood remake underscores the cultural significance of the original film. Despite Wan’s successful direction of horror franchises and Timo Tjahjanto’s acclaim for The Night Comes for Us, skepticism about the appropriateness of repurposing Train to Busan resonates among audiences. The ongoing debate further solidifies the film’s impact on cinema.
Meanwhile, Yeon Sang-ho is preparing to make his English-language directorial debut with the action-horror project 35th Street, which, while separate from the Train to Busan narrative, reflects his dedication to the horror genre. If a third film does come to fruition and Sang-ho returns as director, fans may find echoes of 35th Street woven throughout it.
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