IFFR 2018 “Must-See” Asian Movies

IFFR 2018 Special

The Day After (by Director Hong Sang-soo)

Bongwan (Kwon Haehyo) is an untrustworthy man.  When his wife storms into his office to confront him and his mistress, he keeps lying.  Obviously he is suffering and nobody can tell who is really telling the truth.  Is his mistress #1 the only mistress?  How about the mysterious new assistant who looks innocent?  Does Bongwan really not remember her or is he playing a game for mistress #3?  The film will keep you wondering for some days.

 

Yeah!  (by Director Suzuki Yohei)

Director Suzuki is known to be always thinking.  The title “Yeah!” is already confusing but means “house” in Japanese.  A young girl, named Ako wanders around the city and talks to trees: “If you guys get together, you can win against those stupid humans.  Don’t lose!”  She looks like a homeless and Alzheimer person.  This movie, which the director dedicated to his grandmother, somehow represents today’s society and its hidden problems.  Suzuki’s film is short as he does not waste any time.  The audience can enjoy this subtle masterpiece with “After The Exhibition,” a fun film about an artist’s private life.

 

The Fortress (By Director Hwang Dong-hyuk)

We notice that gorgeous and fabulous historical movies are becoming rare, even in Asia.  This 17th-century story about the surrounding of the Namhan fortress can teach us great life lessons.  The Korean Joseon dynasty’s King Injo and his crown prince were surrounded by Qing (Manchu) Army at the fortress during the cold winter.  The King’s only choice was to face an historical humiliation or die with dignity. The movie shows us the views of the King’s inside army, the local citizens, as well as the enemy’s own struggle with other Chinese powers, like Khan and Ming. Finally the Korean King is being pictured having to accept his destiny.