The 4 directors of Persona drew inspiration for their stories from their first meetings with IU; a legendary Kpop artist who’s just 27 and the lead actress of this series.

Love Set
Most viewers find this tennis match between Doona and IU unsettling but mediocre. Well, I’ll just say; change your heteronormative world view and rewatch it. Kudos to Doona and IU for taking on a sensitive topic and delivering a compelling performance. I love this pairing and can only pray for more from this duo.

Collector
Inspired by IU’s song Jam Jam, this takes you on a freaky ride. IU’s character is very mysterious and unconventional. In the end, you realize karma really is a bitch. Is her actions ethical? Is she supernatural? I won’t say much more because the story relies heavily on the shock factor to deliver its story.

Kiss Burn
IU became a kpop idol at 16 and a national sensation at 18. She didn’t have a normal school life and the director wanted to give her the chance to experience the kind of friendships you build in school. IU’s character sets out to take revenge on behalf of her best friend and in the process offers us a glimpse into the innocent mischievousness of ordinary youth. It’s a light watch and a good break before you dive into the next story.

Walking at Night
When the director first met IU, he says what he recognized most was her loneliness. In tune with that, we get a black and white film, focusing on a sedate conversation between lover. As the story progresses we understand that IU’s character is having her last conversation with her lover. It’s a sad and heavy tale, set a little slow to make you feel the passage of time. This also tackles a unorthodox situation, showcasing the trauma of being left behind.

All in all, you’re left with quite a bumpy ride, and I must confess that I had to watch it a couple of times to understand the subtlety and the lessons. The experience of watching Persona may not be amazing but the provocative afterthoughts you’re left with are most rewarding.

Definitely a must watch.