Ermenegildo Zegna | Short Film "A Rose Reborn"

Ermenegildo Zegna

A Collaboration with Film Director Park Chan-wook

Short Film "A Rose Reborn"

Italian fashion brand Ermenegildo Zegna's official website has released the short film "A Rose Reborn," a collaborative creation with emerging Asian film director Park Chan-wook. This original work, distinct from typical brand PR movies, is comprised of four episodes set in various locations around the world. Released sequentially from September, the final fourth episode was unveiled at the closing event of the Shanghai International Fashion Week on October 22nd.

Text by MURAMATSU Ryo (OPENERS)

A Star-Studded Cast is Also a Feature of This Work

Ermenegildo Zegna, a leading Italian brand, is renowned for its proactive use of video services. At its Autumn/Winter 2014-15 collection show in June this year, a large screen was set up to present a runway show accompanied by original video content, and the event was streamed live. Here, we introduce the short film "A Rose Reborn," currently available on the brand's official website.

The film was directed by the acclaimed South Korean director Park Chan-wook, often called a 'maestro.' He won the Grand Prix at the Cannes Film Festival for "Oldboy" (2004), a suspense film centered on a man held captive for years. He has since released works such as "Lady Vengeance" (2005) and "Thirst" (2009), earning global recognition, with directors like Quentin Tarantino praising his films.

Still from "A Rose Reborn"

The collaboration between Ermenegildo Zegna and Park Chan-wook came about through a suggestion by Italian film director Luca Guadagnino, who also served as producer for this project. This initiative can be seen as a bold move by Ermenegildo Zegna, which has been focusing particularly on the Asian market in recent years. The main roles are played by Daniel Wu, active primarily in Hong Kong, and British actor Jack Huston. The screenplay was co-written by director Park and actress-turned-writer Fumiyo Kōno.

This work is a four-part documentary series depicting a young businessman traveling the world under the theme of "The New Leadership." Set in four cities—London, Wyoming (USA), Shanghai, and Milan—it follows the deepening relationship between Stefan, a young engineer played by Jack, and Mr. Lu, the owner of a Chinese company portrayed by Daniel, as they strive to create a better future.

The final episode, presented at the closing event of the Shanghai International Fashion Week on October 22nd, is a story of approximately 20 minutes that includes previously unreleased scenes from Episodes 1 through 3. It reveals the world that Stefan and Mr. Lu aspire to build.