Good News is a 2025 South Korean dark comedy thriller directed by Byun Sung-hyun, best known for Kill Boksoon and Kingmaker. The film stars Sul Kyung-gu, Hong Kyung, and Ryoo Seung-bum.
Inspired by the real-life hijacking of a Japanese passenger plane in 1970, the story follows a dangerous high-stakes operation to bring the hijacked plane to safety. What unfolds is a battle of wits between the hijackers and intelligence forces on the ground, mixing suspense with satire.
Blending dark comedy and political intrigue, the film highlights how truth and lies often overlap in times of crisis. Good News will premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) on September 5, 2025, before streaming globally on Netflix starting October 17, 2025.
Good News Age Rating
Good News is rated TV-MA (Mature Audiences) for mature content, political satire, and suspenseful themes. This rating means the film is intended for adults and may be inappropriate for viewers under 17. Below is a spoiler-free breakdown of the film’s content areas:
Violence & Peril
The movie contains tense hijacking sequences, threats with weapons, and scenes of danger aboard the plane. Some moments of violence occur, but they are not overly graphic. The suspense comes more from the fear of what could happen rather than from constant action.
Language
Expect occasional strong language throughout the film. Dialogue also includes tense arguments and heated exchanges under pressure.
Mature Themes
The film explores serious themes such as political manipulation, deception, and the moral ambiguity of intelligence operations. The satirical edge adds dark humor, but the underlying subject matter (terrorism, hostage-taking, state control) is mature and complex.
Is Good News Suitable for Teens?
Ages 10–12: Not suitable. The hijacking theme, political undertones, and mature humor make this inappropriate for pre-teens.
Ages 13–15: Not recommended. While not excessively graphic, the suspense, political themes, and TV-MA rating suggest the content is too heavy for younger teens.
Ages 16–17: Older, mature teens who enjoy thrillers or political dramas may be able to handle the content, especially with parental guidance. However, the film is designed for an adult audience.
Overall, Good News is best suited for adults who can appreciate its mix of thriller tension and satirical commentary.
What Parents Can Do
Understand the Tone: This is not a typical action thriller—it blends dark comedy with political suspense, which may confuse younger viewers.
Discuss Real Events: Since the story is based on an actual 1970 hijacking, parents can use it as a chance to talk about history and how films dramatize real-life events.
Set Viewing Expectations: Teens may expect fast-paced action, but the movie leans more toward psychological tension and satire. Prepare them for a slower, thoughtful pace.
Official Trailer
FAQs
Q: What is the age rating for Good News (2025)?
A: The film is rated TV-MA for mature audiences.
Q: Is Good News appropriate for teens?
A: Not for younger teens. The themes and suspense are intended for adults, though mature older teens (16+) might handle it.
Q: Does Good News contain graphic violence?
A: Some tense and violent moments occur, but it is not highly graphic. The focus is on suspense and political tension.
Q: Is there sexual content in Good News?
A: No, the film does not emphasize sexual content.
Q: Where can I watch Good News?
A: The film premieres at TIFF on September 5, 2025, and will stream globally on Netflix starting October 17, 2025.