MustSayGoodBye
Earthling
I never Knew Dreams Can Be this Real??
The mystic and ecstatic elements are held in abeyance ingeniously devised by Screenwriter Ha Yoon Ah and Director Jun Chang Geun. I cannot comment fully on the similarities to the 2017 webtoon of the same name, but it appears the Screenwriter tempered wonderfully warm melodic moments with a keen sense of humor.It was Jun Chang Geun's first project since The Package (2017) that I flat-out enjoyed the beautiful scenery and famous landmarks in that show. Mystic Pop-Up Bar does not disappoint, but there will always be a select few people that will bash this show and nothing we can do about it. By this point, have we not seen all that we will see in the fantasy aspect, maybe not. Yes, we pine for originality in the script, but do the actors catalyze more visionary thinking in each other that this drama expertly displays.
The location of the outdoor drinking establishment lures individuals from all backgrounds that were the main focal point. The viewer invested by the average individuals' problems the Mystic Pop-Up Bar soothes the pain and suffering. The soft and upbeat music, along with the light clinking of glass, was soothing to my ears when drinking occurred, and the main leads entered the dream world. The Directing Style aided to the storytelling because we see a different side to what the director contributes to this Depleted Genre that I have trust will be in good hands for the future.
Acting:
Every character imparts much liveliness to the scenes. Hwang Jung Eum's tone and expression did not awake an old, unwelcome feeling that her other works sometimes did. I think Park Shi Eun's depiction of the younger Weol Joo was a significant reason why I overlooked the deficiency of her acting style. She has retained a certain mystique, which makes her such a compelling character.
Choi Won Young's heartening rendition of his character was something special as his dilated pupil and eyebrow expressions in a bunch of scenes caught my undivided attention. Also, he imparts strength and provides an air of talisman of protection. Yook Sung Jae timid, yet bubbly persona was too wily, unfailingly tactful, an adept with the touch of his hands. I especially cherished Jung Da Eun's role as a Security Guard, her metamorphosis of a resigned face to an alight face from the first episode to the last episode. YSJ and JDE are too adorable together.
I would have liked a little more character development from the villain. Still, writing this review, I reflected on the villain's role, and what they did was not bad considering tropes run rampant in every drama—a bittersweet story of the villain trapped by the flaws in his character.
Conclusion:
It had the right amount of episodes to enjoy every episode. If you have any doubts, I say watch the first two episodes and make your decision. I conclude I have a fondness for close contact with someone after viewing this show. The show elicits an aliveness we crave in this Coronoviris Pandemic once everything settles back to normalcy; Human Interaction and affection.
Final Rating: 8.75/10
Story: 8.57/10
Acting: 9.68/10
Rewatch: I will watch this again for sure. Four Thumbs Up.
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Dreaming of the Stars
The 96% Male Cast might distress you, but the excellent acting by the Two Male Leads convivial gatherings struck a chord with me. The film depicts King Sejong, aka (Sejong the Great) stargazing, from the use of Macro focusing, at heart his love, and support for his subjects.The Director Heo Jin Ho is no stranger to Korean Cinema. He teamed up with screenwriter Lee Ji Min for a second go-around, first-time collaborating on The Last Princess (2016). His professionalism is brilliantly denuding the facial expressions of the characters in this psychological Bromance affair; A scientist of Peasant Birth and the King of Joseon Dynasty of Korea. The storytelling not on par with the warm-hearted Jang Young Shil (2016) drama paralleled to a darker tone in this film drama.
Historical inaccuracies will show its face, but it is Han Seok Kyu's reprisal as King Sejong, eight years apart from his portrayal in Tree with Deep Roots (2011) with apprehensive curiosity. Choi Min Shik has reached the pinnacle of success in the South Korean Film Industry sparking my vested interest in the Duo of these two actors. It's been twenty-six years since HSK and CMS worked together on the drama The Moon of Seoul (1994). Of course, I might come off a little bias.
The Forbidden Kingdom (2019) is like meeting the existential figures of Sejong and Jang Young-Shil directly with Han Seok-Kyu and Choi Min-Sik's acting styles. The powerhouse working in this film impressed me with the ability to tell stories with one line. You will have to view it to detect the context of the line. HSK and CMS approached this project with equal gusto to a somewhat monotonous plot with the limitations of HSK and CMS's characters.
Even though there was a lot of Star Power in this film from Heo Joon Ho, Kim Tae Woo, Kim Won Hae, their characters' washed away from the overpowering acting of HSK and CMS. The music did not impress me, but it did not hold me back from watching this film.
After viewing this film, I covet a friend who can see the dream I envision and talk to daily. Even though I do not shed tears, the film intimidates me to have someone who can share tears with like Sejong and Jang Young-Shil. Watch this film if you want to see Stellar Acting by the Male Leads on a day you have nothing to watch.
Final Rating: 7.96/10
Story: 7.48/10
Acting: Han Seok-Kyu and Choi Min-Sik's acting 9.7/10, Rest of Cast: 7.40/10, Overall: 8.51/10
Rewatch Value:
It is rewatchable.
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What is TRUE PATRIOTISM?
The influence the PRESS wields exhibits the tenacity that TRUTH and JUSTICE might TRIUMPH in a civil society. The film reminded me of The Pentagon Papers (2003) about the U.S. involvement in the Vietnam War. Seismic social changes do not come about immediately as negative sentiment must first build throughout the years, and citizens grow agitated by their public officials.Brief History
Korean History 101, Democracy embedded itself in South Korea culture years before Park Chung-hee assassination occurred on October 26, 1979, rejuvenating the democratic movements in South Korea, silenced initially under Park's Dictatorship regime. May 18, 1980, Gwangju Uprising was the beginning of a more unpopular oppressive military regime under Chun Doo-hwan leading up to the June 1987 Democratic Movement changing the fate of a Nation's political landscape.
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Director Jang Joon Hwan's documentary touch paints the perfect image of South Korea, the repression of civil discord within the year 1987. The viewer concentrates on watching the film conveying a story with a palpable tempo, to pull it off with suspense, to appeal to emotion, and to entertain. It is a film that wept tears of human horror, moved by the courage of those who pursue the truth. Most people will wallow in this film, but few people will rebuff it and say it is biased.
With the word "Communist" by a single word, the whole state persecutes ordinary people. On the contrary, the same persecution was happening in a socialist country. When a nation uses its "enemies" to inflame its people, it is better to be careful before the persecution. Jang Joon Hwan's micromanaged the word "Conscience" introspectively. What is TRUE PATRIOTISM?
In my book, Kim Yoon Seok pitches in an Oscar-worthy performance with his cold-eyed gaze. In the first encounter with KYS's character, the audience perceives the warped and distorted view of PATRIOTISM through his mindset. Ha Jung Woo's role may not have had the screentime he merited, but what an energetic rendition of a Prosecutor's unwillingness to bend to his Superiors wishes.
Kim Tae Ri depicting a university student swallowed up in the Democratic Revolution contributed to the turbulent climate of the period. Lee Hee Joon's portrayal of Reporter Yoon furnishes tenacious energy to his purpose ductile like iron. It is such a story that the audience thinks of the nameless predecessors who fought to protect the rights of the people who are today, as most actors depict fictional characters. All the actors do a marvelous job except I would have liked to see more from the people's side. The one complaint I have about this film the music and shouting sometimes drown out the dialogue between the actors. Other than that, unheralded film.
South Korea attained what the 1989 Tiananmen Square protesters could not Democracy with free and fair Presidential Elections not favored for one party or one candidate. Corruption will exist in politics for eternity, but the right to choose your elected officials' and hold them accountable is a blessing. The tyranny of the regime silently; it becomes a problematic situation.
I think back on the 2016-2017 Candlelight Revolution Movement against the unpopular President Park Geun-Hye (2013-2017), the daughter of dictator Park Chung-hee, eventually impeached for the corruption of bribery sentenced to 25 years in prison. Democratic values have wavered, but Standing Up for Truth and Justice has not fluctuated since 1987.
Final Rating: 8.59/10
Acting: 9.60/10
Story: 8.98/10
Rewatch Value:
I have watched this film three times, so it is rewatchable for anyone able to stomach the subject matter - based on True events.
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Suspenseful with Human Motives
Once in a blue moon, you nosedive into a mystery/thriller film with no prior warning. South Koreans are not afraid to tackle a tired well-established genre. A movie from the year 2013. The film does have similarities to the novel Rokuyon (64), written by Hideo Yokoyama (Mystery/Thriller Novelist) in 2012. Still, the Director changes a few characters and the setting to suit the mood in South Korea. I would not have noticed it if I did not read this novel a couple of years ago.The movie thrusts you into an ingenious, suspenseful plot that will have you on the edge of your seat, depending on your attention span. Director Jung Geun Sub hits it out of the park with his directorial debut. All that matters does Montage deliver the ESCAPISM we crave, and the simple answer is YES.
Kim Sang Kyung's depiction of Detective Seo Tae Yoon in Memories of Murder (2003) mesmerized me, itching for him to portray a Detective again. Ten years later, my wish granted. It is unlike his role in 2003, with a little more sophistication and color added to this character in Montage (2013). Uhm Jung Hwa was surprisingly the highlight holding viewers' nerves and keeping the stress construction on a high level throughout the film minutes. I can see why she won numerous awards for this role. The layer of understanding human motives adds to the story from the character's perspectives.
The Director toned down the action, and the lack of violence shows in the stylish camera work. There are a few foot chases, not elaborate, not over the top, adds to the flavor. At the time, there were a few films where the plot encompasses the "Statute of Limitations" in South Korea back then. One film that comes to mind is Confession of Murder (2012), with some high octane action and utmost thrilling elements within the screenplay polar opposite of Montage (2013).
It is a Kidnapping story with a CLEVER Twist that is a mature, yet quiet conclusion that hits hard and true. If you do not mind viewing a slow-paced, but a fast-paced story that allows the audience to investigate the evidence scene to scene GO FOR IT. It might be a little predictable, but it is a gripping film for the small plotholes that are a little obvious to a critic's eye. Would you SCORCH the Eath to find the Kidnapper? I need another film by this Director soon.
Final Rating: 8.59
Acting: 9.21
Story: 8.24
Rewatch Value: It is my fourth time watching this film. I love the suspense, but you may have different thoughts.
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Running Towards Your Past
Stop and Take a Breather for a minute. Are you out of breath? We are always thinking and Running away from something. The Liberation and solidarity at the same time lag when coming to a vague sense of loss. Not everyone has an innocent and carefree youth to cherish and look back on. There are individuals everywhere that walk in the same footsteps of the character Jin Soo. We might not see it occurring in our daily lives. The film has that ambiance of a true story.
Relatively new Director Oh Won-Jae did a professional job mixing addicting and compelling background music with the bleak winter cold backdrop of the countryside. Oh Won-Jae has worked as an assistant director and director of several independent films, including "Bad Boy" and "Hunting." His low-budget independent movie "Land of Stranger," gaining praise at the 19th Jeonju International Film Festival competition, caught the attention of Jang Dong Yoon. JDY elected to collaborate with this director for his next project, coming off his highly successful drama, The Tale of Nokdu of 2019.
Jang Dong-Yoon's glowing appearance was memorable. A movie that reminds you of your memories of school days, a film that draws on the darkness of wandering youth with an overarching gaze. It will connect with individuals who had similar experiences, but anybody can reminisce about an old friendship that feeling of hubris in their life. Seo Byuk Joon's presence perturbs and comforts Jang Dong-Yoon character a great deal hence what the movie revolves around. The actors' ages should not sway your decisions to stay away. Han Yi Jin depicts a delinquent crude High School youth appearance. All the actors do a marvelous job in this low budget independent film.
The warmth, sadness, freedom of the Jang Dong Yoon running scenes percolated through the audience. It is not a perfect film, but people will respect the high-quality edited shots in creating this feature film. I believe this filmmaker has a bright future with unlimited potential. The piano music will yank you into this story, but every person is unique so that it might detract you away. You never know. Give this a chance, and you might have found something that you might enjoy.
Final Rating: 8.55/10
Acting: 9.22/10
Rewatch Value: I will watch this again when time permits itself still. In my eyes an excellent movie.
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AI Let Me Introduce You to Osawa Takao
NO SPOILERSIt is social suspense depicting hope and threat by"AI(artificial intelligence)," which is now infiltrating reality. It is different from what we usually see in Japanese films. The realistic approach in the Sci-Fi Genre, "What happens to AI if the reality that we live now becomes ten years later as it is." AI is crucial for deep learning. That's why medical AI is a dream-like development, and that needs to research daily continually. At the same time, the film reminds us it is very likely that we will become dependent on AI because of the realization one day, and if AI runs amok, we will fall into havoc exposed to the risk of life.
Matsushima Nanako's small role was impressive but significant to the backbone of the story. The actor that was amazing in this movie, Iwata Takanori, he brilliantly played his character to perfection. Miura Tomokazu's performance as the old school detective was neat. Osawa Takao's role is not what he had in Kingdom (2019, but he did not overdramatize scenes drowning me out but instead a worthy performance.
In this movie, AI for police investigation force called "Hyakume" will come out, but this is a setting that will occur in 10 years, unlike the anime "PSYCHO-PASS" that comes out in the civic system, so I think that challenges will be possible here as well.
What can I say I loved the design of the server room where "AI Nozomi" housed, it was cool. In addition, the fly-type investigation camera that the "Hyakume" utilizes had a decent design. There's a question of what happens to the battery, but the mini size makes it captivating to be able to fit anywhere.
The movie is excellent because it makes you think a lot, but unfortunately, there are some issues and pitfalls in this movie that will stand out. It is not clear whether this is a bad point, but the story had similar vibes to "Terminator," "Minority Report," "Platinum Data." I am okay with that. The battle for Privacy will be a new war ,or has it begun already??
It is a movie I will give a thumbs up to watch. See it. Either way, you will love it or hate it. When humanity is ready for AI, lets, HOPE we do not succumb to our creation and selfishness. Do you need AI for AI in reality?
Final Rating: 7.89/10
Acting: 9.20/10
Rewatch: I would rewatch this in the future.
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Takahata Mitsuki's Singing Stands Out
There are No SpoilersWatch this at your discretion. Everybody has different viewpoints, and this is mine. I was anticipating this live-action film last year because I loved the manga and anime. After viewing the Musical as it is a Musical more than a Live-Action Adaptation, the Director disregarded the original intent of the manga. I think it's appropriate for people who don't understand the manga should not make a live-action movie. Fukuda Yuichi is better at directing dramas/TV shows, so he should stick with that; he is better than this.
I cannot comprehend why a musical element was applied. The Director's attempt at connecting episodes from the manga/serialization was too long and dull. The Director should have utilized the music Niconico Suite or something else if he valued a musical piece. I initially thought to construct musical scenes for Wotakoi: Love Is Hard for Otaku was a great idea.
The Director was thinking outside the box, but the musical scenes poorly edited it would have been better if the song and dance had been a little shorter and had a sense of speed. Side note Ms. Takahata's singing was too good; I did enjoy her voice; if it's a bit of a treble. The repeated singing and dancing scenes, the shape of the characters became infinitely shallow, including the two main characters for me. I can't empathize with this, and I did not enjoy it. You may have a different experience when watching it.
Takahata Mitsuki's character does not feel a sense of incongruity. Her acting is incredible, trying her best at a weak script putting her talents at work. I appreciated Jiro Sato drunken performance that will force a laugh or two. Nanao's role as Koyanagi Hanako was exciting to a certain extent, and she is beautiful, but sometimes I felt like where did she go? Tsuyoshi Muro's strong acting stood out to me. Now, Yamazaki Kento's character is expressionless from beginning to end that I think it was fun with an easy-to-understand role; a world Fukuda created himself.
I loved the characters, but it was the dances and songs that diminished my viewing experience. The content of the story is a little thin for my taste. What happened to the depiction of the birch flower? I kept thinking to myself I love this game, I love this game, so I compelled myself to finish the movie. Maybe it is not a good idea for a person who has read the manga has a little million thoughts circling his head.
The one good thing is the Otaku-like expression is not much different from the manga. I am not going to bore you on every little detail. It was a feature film for the masses that did not honor the work of illustrator and writer Fujita. Critics of movies can be wrong too. I am not sure if Fukuda Yuichi did not have the budget or resources available to him to edit this Live-Action Musical. It would have aided big time. Some people will want a Sequel, and others will be like me. In my opinion, this movie is just for the sake of seeing its cuteness.
Final Rating: 6.05/10
Acting: 8.68/10
I am not rewatching this. I cannot. Some of you may find it a great film, and worth rewatching.
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WDH's Appealing Facial Expressions
No SpoilersInside this parallel universe screenwriter, Kim Eun Sook penned a hidden gem that I cannot find my way back. It had an excellent premise that fell into limbo. At times, I felt like I was viewing an AD commercial in some scenes, and other times it was deft scriptwriting and acting buried underneath all the mess.
The writer's incoherent complexity strained the audience's patience. It exploits the same paradox elements in Nine: Nine Times Times Travel (2013). Maybe if you turn your brain off and try not to think everything will make sense to you. The Director who brought us Secret (2013) and Descendants of the Sun (2016) I was expecting a tightly knit plot, but instead got stunning visuals; nothing else.
Woo Do Hwan was the beaming light of TKEM. His dual role as Jo Young and Jo Eun Sub was visually sublime. Woo Do Hwan's perspicuous rapport with Kim Yong Ji, had me on the edge of my seat, hinting at the fervidness. I got to shout out to the roles of the Jo Eun Sub's twins siblings, for they were a time-out in so much occurring.
Kim Go Eun is an amazing actress except for her character in TKEM was dull and one dimensional. You may have a different opinion that would not be so cryptic to me. One Korean actor that is loved and hated Lee Min Ho. His potential appears to have a set limit because the characters he portrays in dramas fall short on many fronts; It is my opinion.
I am not going to explain it in detail. Yi Gon is an engaging character that suited Lee Min Ho, but the inconsistencies in the plot threw the chemistry of the leads off for me. The intenseness of the romance scenes between the LMH and KGE was muddy from the staggering plotholes.
The supposed villain of this drama wasted potential. The character development was weak on all fronts, causing me problems. It is a simple story dragged out a few episodes too long. The music was not bad, helping me through this show even though it was not original.
Watch this if you have nothing else to watch, and you might like it or might hate it. Even though I was not too fond of it, it does not mean you might not like it. If you have the willpower to propel through sixteen plus hours, You have the final say. Will the King solve his Mathematical problem/equation?
Final Rating: 5.28/10
Story: 5.26/10
Acting: 5.69/10
Rewatch Value: I would rewatch it, but a long way down the road when I have nothing to view, maybe on a rainy day or snowy day. Perhaps an episode here or there I would see, WDH scenes.
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Love for Family
Moviegoers should think about watching this film with a relative or somebody you know because it is a charged fairytale story of Cardinal Kim Souhwan's childhood that might force a tear or two. It is a faith-based film, so some of you may forgo this work of art. It is a slow-moving but rewarding message. The film, based on the work of the late Jeong Chae-Bong, well-known for his children's stories, depicts the poor environment Cardinal Kim Souhwan grew up but do not let the rich scenery trick you.The film captures the beautiful images of the natural landscape with vast fields, clear skies, and lush green mountains within South Korea's countryside. The cinematography paints a portrait of the 7-year old Kim Souhwan who wanted to become a ginseng seller rather than a priest for his parents. Circumstances in his life sown in the process of finding his faith and encouraging hope, justice, and religions have no walls in South Korea. He was an imperfect human being who had faults and regrets of not doing enough to combat poverty in South Korea.
The young actor who portrayed the 7-year old Kim Souhwan, Lee Kyung Hoon, was his first significant role. He depicted the young Dong Baek in Memorist. His pure appearance, innocent smile touch the viewer's soul. The message that the audience asks with a warm gaze what is bone-wrenching introspection and the heart's genuineness about the ego.
Lee Hang Na, who has has been active in feature films, and dramas superb as Souhwan's mother. She had a difficult mother's look that revealed the despair and hope. She was loving and caring that you may connect with her character. It was a turbulent time under Japanese Occupation, exposing the halves and have-nots. I cannot imagine living in such times, especially the underground Christians persecuted in the 1800s, South Korea, which the film lightly touches.
Other Prominent actors Ahn Nae Sang, Kang Shin Il, Song Chang Eui, Lee Yul Eum, and others no matter the small role or significant role they played in this film took upon themselves to depict the struggles we all must fight within us.
The music livens the shots that may appear like a sermon, but its nothing like that. People will struggle and fight their way through life, but family is the backbone.
I do not consider these spoilers since anybody can read about the history of the Japanese Rule of South Korea. The film fails at capturing the cruelty of the Japanese Occupation that the movie exposes the Japanese Rule to a certain extent.
It is a fairytale-like production so I can rationalize why they cut his siblings from seven to one. These are the only two things I took offense with, but it is understandable.
Watch this with a family member. Please do not go into this film already prejudging it. Cardinal Kim Soohwan once said, "I raised a special seed in my heart; it was the love of my family."
Final Rating: 8.23/10
Acting: 9.07/10
Rewatch Value: 5/10
It is a moving story, but one that I may not be able to watch again for a long time.
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Disjointed Family Life
Recently, I have been binge-watching Kim Sun-Young films since Crash Landing On You (2019). The second time I am writing a review of one of her movies (Miss Baek). Her flexible approach was on full spectacle surrounding the deplorable behavior within a disjointed family story. It is a sad story exploring disability, violence, and victimization. What is disturbing, yet shakes me the rocky relationships between the different characters.It takes the Arthouse route as it is not a film you would spot in the mainstream movie industry. The film depicts the volatile tensions within the big family caused by the place they call home. The home video camera shots imparted the verismo caught in the movie. You are a spectator to the violence and questions surrounding victimization of a family joined together to celebrate a sibling's birthday. Do not be fooled by the synopsis as it is misleading.
All the actors' authentic acting skills lifts this original screenplay to new heights. We hear the screams from the upstairs room that haunts the film set. All the actors' natural and chaotic behaviors lift this film to above other films of such genre. People cope with reality in various ways. Will a person truly heal from the pains they suffered from years of experience? DISCLAIMER, there is some NUDITY at some point in this movie, hence the Rating Restricted.
Go to this film with an unbiased mind if you want to view this film someday. Watch Thirty Seconds at a time. You might end up enjoying this film. I was surprised I missed it in 2017.
Final Rating: 8.46/10
Story: 8.32/10
Acting: 9.15/10
Rewatch Value: 6/10. It is a heavy subject matter, so I might not come back to this film for a while.
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Breath of Fresh Air
Filmmaker Zhang Yi Mou is best known as the director of Hero (2002), House of Flying Daggers (2004), Curse of the Golden Flower (2006) three depictions of Feudal China combining jaw-dropping cinematography and surreal choreography. In simple terms, wushu grandeur films, but he has mastered the art of filmography beyond the Wushu genre.His films such as Raise High the Red Lanterns (1991), Coming Home (1999), Happy Times (2000), and Under the Hawthorn Tree (2010) fly under the radar regarding social issues. His experience as a cinematographer contributed to Riding Alone for Thousands of Miles the visual imagery of Japan's coast and Yunnan's mountains and terrain, the picture is, as usual, a credit to Zhang Yimou's distinctive talent. Today's audience bombarded with an onslaught of genres like ACTION, WUSHU, ADVENTURE, SCI-FI, or COMIC Book Live Adaptations diluting their appetite for Waterdown gratification.
The film tackles the estranged relationship between a father and his dying son only to encounter numerous obstacles of language, time, and governmental bureaucracy. The focal point of the story surrounding Chinese folk opera singer Li Jiamin (Jiamin Li ) who Ken Takakura's character, hoping to repair relations with his son, decides to set on a trip to China and film the singer with the help of Jasmine (Jiang Wen) and Lingo (Lin Qiu), two translators.
Ken Takakura's performance is nothing short of spectacular. Zhang's camera delineates his face with great diligence and grace in style. The range of depth emotions he pours into his character who speaks through stoic facial expressions, sullen strides, and gentle motions of the hand is a difficult task, one which Takakura—a famed Yakuza actor—undertakes with apparent ease. It is his last film. The dialogue takes a back seat to the subtle changes in the scenery. The non-actors were themselves going about life.
It is a tired formula from a brilliant director. Some of the themes he utilities journey past bureaucracy and dispassion examined in his early film The Story of Qiu Ju (1992). The tragic element within the movie beautiful, but I tend to prefer the melodrama - tragedy in Happy Times (2000). The OST is alright, but it was not the piece that catapulted the film over the top.
Sally Wen Mao's poem popped into my head while viewing this awing film cinematography by Xiaoding Zhao, who lent his cinematic expertise in Zhang's House of Flying Daggers film. This film relies heavily on contrasts - the vibrant, untouched Chinese mountains and valley against Japan's grey tone. Riding Alone for Thousands of Miles creates a story built around Gou-Ichi Takata's (Ken Takakura) search for reconnection. I thought of the poem below while riding alone in uninhabited lands or our journey of self-discovery/redemption; we come to find solace that everything we do is essential to someone.
Riding Alone for Thousands of Miles Poem
by Sally Wen Mao
“In Lijiang, the sign outside your hostel
glares: Ride alone, ride alone, ride
alone — it taunts you for the mileage
of your solitude, must be past
thousands, for you rode this plane
alone, this train alone, you'll ride
this bus alone well into the summer night,
well into the next hamlet, town,
city, the next century, as the trees twitch
and the clouds wane and the tides
quiver and the galaxies tilt and the sun
spins us another lonely cycle, you'll
wonder if this compass will ever change.
The sun doesn't need more heat,
so why should you? The trees don't need
to be close, so why should you?”
Final Rating: 8.51/10
Story: 8.24/10
Acting: 9.52/10
Rewatch Value: 7/10
It sends a great message, but I will hold off a little while I view this Lost In Translation film.
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Take-Charge
My farfetched dream the day more nitty-gritty, dark subject matter, yet heartwarming pictures reach the mainstream. Dark Subject matter such as Domestic Violence should not be brushed under the rug but discussed out in the open. The Director shot angles, and limited dialogues supplied the character's emotions brilliantly.If a person likes aesthetic films, then the viewer will not be so quick to surmise the movie but anatomize the subject matter before them. Han Ji Min depicts a woman with deep scars suffered as a child. We see it in her beaten facial expressions and how she interacts with individuals. A person frequently will never lose that alleged bond with a family member. Han Ji Min's acting is superb the reclusive life she lives until that one fateful encounter with Kim Shi Ah's character.
Kim Shi Ah's role as a child suffering at the hands of child abuse is abrasive and alarming. We all know Domestic Violence occurs globally, but you wish some of these people have a heart of kindness, not a heart of stone. No child should suffer at the likes of being born. South Koreans breed adept child actors because it is no easy feat to portray that character.
The supporting cast was convincing, but the child's dad and his gaming addiction. SERIOUSLY!!! Other than that, it was sublime, especially the dad's eccentric girlfriend. It was no masterpiece, just a terrific film. I have not seen Mother (2018), yet so I can not comment on the similarities the film and drama share.
The colorless shots in the apartments to the airy sensation shots by the ocean enlightened us to their problems. The soundtrack elevated the movie, but it had its flaws that took away from my enjoyment.
Go into this film with an open mind. It may not be something you wish to watch as some dark subject matter you might not want to see visually. My advice if you do not like the first six minutes of the beginning, then DROP IT.
Final Rating: 8.47/10
Story: 9.10/10
Acting: 9.42/10
Rewatch Value is a 7.45/10. I would rewatch it, but only under certain circumstances.
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One in a Thousands of Stories like Ounie Lecomte
Abandonment ambushes when you least expect it, crushing all hopes and dreams. We encounter thousands of stories resembling Ounie Lecomte abandoned at orphanages everywhere. Ounie Lecomte's auto-biographical story sows within the audience the agonies of great denial and depression but beyond lingers hopes and answers.Kim Sae Ron's commanding presence deserves recognition for eternity. We see it in her eyes, and her actions distressed and frustrated with the man she called father amidst all that's occurred. The Director's long takes allow the audience to recognize how long the time in the orphanage seemed for Jinhee, the relatively small amounts of dialogs of Kim Sae Ron's character. Cinematography mastery.
Park Do Yeon's portrayal of an 11-year old orphan girl named Sookhee befriends Kim Sae Ron is nothing short of exceptional. She might come across a little untrustworthy at first, but deep down is empathic towards others. The camera shots did not resemble an amateur director's work. The bleak tone setting of the orphanage shows the sadness of this place very understandably. It is a visual account of Lecomte's childhood that she incorporates into this feature film.
How music geniuses compose is incomprehensible because they create beauty with so few instruments. It is astounding. One scene can have such a strong response from me because the music heightens it.
I come to share in the struggles, pain, and a new life that awaits the orphans as the film left a heartrending imprint. I will miss this film, viewing it for a second time, but I will find my way back eventually. If you are on the fence, look on the bright side, it is an hour and thirty minutes long. It may not be for everyone, as the genre might not suit you. There may be an actress or actor you identified in the film that piqued your interest. In the end, it is a film with a strong message overlooked for years.
My Final Rating: 8.78/10
Story: 9.18/10
Acting: 9.64/10
Rewatch Value: 6.5/10
It is a challenging film viewing the horrors of a brutal topic. I may hold off viewing it another eleven years before I watch it again.
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Value of a Sad and Pseudo-Life
Screenwriter Lee Woo Jung brought us a near-perfect script compounded by the Director’s vision revolving around the daily occurrences within a hospital setting of the value of a sad and pseudo-life. Shin PD and Lee Woo Jung are inseparable since 2012 as I like to call it the Shin PD/Lee Woo Magical Express-Down Memory Lane ride. The writers of Reply 1988 and Prison Playbook bashed it out of the park with a visual treat to be sui generis.First, if you do not like this screenwriter, then I will save you the time, do not see this show. Every episode is about an hour fifteen to forty minutes long. It is the one drawback and only drawback to a drama with steady character development from the main leads. Read on if you are willing to maybe think about viewing Hospital Playlist, aka Sage of Life.
What is the reason why so many people were enthusiastic, ‘sad and happy? It was not your typical backstabbing hospital politics drama. It was a medical drama that broke the traditional framework and made us more aware of humanism; we called it empathy rather than a doctor's story. It was different from Life (2018), Romantic Doctor, Teacher Kim (2016), or Chocolate (2019). The Director’s passion for editing without an editor was to complete a drama full of detail, and the nostalgic playbook of the Yoo Jung artist formed a sympathetic band beyond generations. I give kudos to the cinematography. Of course, it would be a drama for nothing without clichés sprinkled into the story.
First-rate acting at its finest. Actor Jo Jung Seok demonstrates his irreplaceable presence through his character Lee Ik Jun. Without spoiling when it occurs, I am naming the comical scenes his role creates with his company alone. He made some humorous scenes, “Das Vader, Pick Me dance, Frog King eyes, and subway guide,” which had become a central topic of discussion throughout the drama. One word his character generates DE-STRESS situations.
Jo Jung Seok’s whole character’s essence is the ability to mingle with several surrounding characters, focus on their work, and relieve them of their presence. Jo Jung Seok has developed a unique sense of life-tight acting, giving him persuasion and empathy for the situation and engaging in Anbang Theater style with a friendly fascination that we see with the ambassador in the show. It may be offputting, but his role intended to engage in comical antics.
If that is not enough, Kim Joon plays the winning and always hungry son Lee Woo Joo of Jo Jung Seok. His eyes are beguiling that can manipulate you to no end in sight. He is an impressive child actor who I am looking forward to in the coming years.
The heroine of the show actress Jeon Mi Do was phenomenal her first time on screen portraying a Professor of Neurosurgery. She has a unique screen presence and acting style from her critical success attributed to Anbang Theatre and Musical Theatre. The real eye-opener in the drama, not that she cannot act far from it; it is she cannot sing. Granted, we do hear her angel voice on the OST, but there is a stark difference, which the writers hit on this early. The chemistry with her co-leads is natural that a month or two months of acting cannot teach, but her years of stage/music theater taught her well. She did not appear stiff, which I consider that a plus.
Yoo Yeon Sook, Jung Kyung Ho, and Kim Dae Myung were equally impressive in their roles. You know the Director and Screenwriter did a marvelous job when the viewer can connect with working individuals in a demanding profession that do not get the respect they deserve every day. You will fall in love with Kim Da Myung’s stoic facial expressions/antisocial nature, Yoo Yeon Sook's kindhearted nature, and Jung Kyung Ho’s grave but tenderhearted answers to the patient's family. They are all talented gifted with musical talents, not just acting from the soul.
There were so many new and old faces; they all did a great job on screen. I am no medical expert, but in my eyes, the surgeries performed looked realistic to a certain extent, but like all medical shows bound to be slipups. You may find a slipup here and there, but do not let it discourage you from watching this extraordinary show. The only negatives are there is no real story. The story revolves around the lives of five friends working at a Medical Hospital, but do not let it influence your decision.
The OST was a hit in South Korea, and I, for one, liked the music choices. Every episode, the band the five friends meet once a week or when their schedule is not chaotic to perform a particular song. I viewed every episode at least two times, and the get-togethers are an intricate part of the story. What I got out of this drama, which I hope Season 2 continues this extraordinary story, friendship should not stop at College but extend into our workplace or virtual workplace long after we form attachments. Bonds damaged and amended along the way. One thing I am looking forward to how Season 2 OST will top Season 1 OST.
It is maybe not Bing-Worthy material, but savoring every minute may be an episode every other day. Watch the first fifteen minutes of the first episode if you like, watch the next fifteen minutes. It is all around a tremendous enjoyable show that will have you laughing, maybe tearing up, or cursing. I recommend this show even if it is a one time watch for you. Hop on the "Shin PD/Lee Woo Magical Express-Down Memory Lane ride."
Final Rating: 9.20/10
Story: 8.90/10
Acting: 9.76/10
Rewatch Value: I would rewatch it again in a heartbeat.
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Bristling Sea Breeze
Do you ever feel stressed? Do you need a fresh start? A small coastal village in South Korea may not sound exciting, but once you hear the thundering splashes of waves and silent whistles of the breezes, you may think differently. It is the first Surfing Film to come out of Korea, which is surprising.I might be in the minority, but Lee Hyun Seung films The Blue in You (1992), IL Mare (2000), and Hindsight (2011) not meant for mass appeal, but a more severe tone rather than the dramatics we notice in films and shows. It is Lee Hyun Seung's first feature film in nine years, and I was overexcited when I heard about the production four years ago. Director Lee Hyun Seung's usual arthouse aesthetic style delivers vibrance about the daily activities yet simple lives on Jukdo Island, South Korea.
Many people around the world might not know, but Jukdo Beach is a surfing hotspot. There are spots around the world that go unnoticed and the small village in Gangwon-Do Province. South Korea is a famous spot for surfers to gather. It is a shame there are no considerable swells in the summertime, but there are excellent swells in the spring and fall.
The film gives a realistic portrait of surfers' worries about the destruction occurring in the small village, while they eat, sleep, and live for surfing. The film incorporates various humanistic stories. In my opinion, every character works in unison to vividly portray the waves and people. The movie might not suit your tastes, but it is a break from the usual films.
For instance, we can connect with Jeon Hye Bin's character Soo-Jeong escaping the stress from work in Seoul while she learns to express her freedom through surfing. Her character reminded me of the main person in Little Forest. Kim Viju depicts a 12-year old surfer high-spirited, and her positive actions put a smile on the audience's face. Veteran actors Oh Gwang Rok, Park Ho San, and Jung Tae Woo appear in this little gem invigorate the story. All these actors love surfing or are surfing enthusiasts in real-life that made the film flow freely. The OST is nothing special, but it works nonetheless.
The film manipulates cinematography skillfully, considering the low budget. The director skillfully uses Jukdo Beach as a backdrop to paint a colorful picture of the laidback and surfing life. I will admit some shots were blurry or meant to look like a documentary as there was no real plot. Again, it was a slice of life surfing film. The film might entice you, which I would say give it go. It is a beautiful movie to sit back and relax during a rainy day or night time watch.
Final Overal Rating 8.41
Story: 8.62
I will rewatch this sometime in the future. It was a great movie in my book coming from a great director.
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