A Distant Place

Set against the mesmerizing mountains and vast plains of Mongolia, the 2020 South Korean movie, A Distant Place, explores the intricacies of human connection, the significance of ‘belonging,’ and beautifully illustrates the enigma of acceptance and exclusion in society.

A Distant Place introduces audiences to Jin-Woo, sensitively portrayed by Lee Sang-hee, whose life takes an unexpected turn after moving to Hyeopjae, a remote village located on Jeju Island. Tired of the racism and objectification he experienced as a Korean migrant worker in Seoul, Jin-Woo aspires to lead a peaceful life traversing the serene landscapes as a shepherd, herder, and beekeeper.

But the tranquillity is short-lived. An eccentric artist, Hyun-Shik, portrayed by Kyung Hong, stumbles upon Jin-Woo’s life, suddenly changing the monotonous rhythm of his days. Romance blossoms between these two distinctly different souls, their relationship blooming like the flowers that blanket the mountains during spring. Hyun-Shik, also an outcast, finds solace and comfort in the company of like-minded Jin-Woo. Their shared outsider status, coupled with their common appreciation for the serene landscapes, cements a bond—it's a love story that transcends societal judgements.

Ju-bong Gi binds the narrative together in his role as an altruistic and wise psychologist. He acts as a guiding light to Jin-Woo as he learns to navigate the trials and tribulations of his life in the village, maintaining his sanity amidst the unforgiving judgements of society. His character provides a moral backbone to the story, standing as a beacon of hope and acceptance.

However, peace is fleeting. Jin-Woo’s idyllic life crumbles when he's confronted with prejudices that have deep roots in societal norms. Even the welcoming nature of Hyeopjae village, the pristinely clear blue skies, and the mesmerizing landscapes fail to conceal prejudice and ostracization Jin-Woo has to face due to his sexuality and previous migratory status. The fear of being an outsider, once again, looms large.

Director Park Kun-young tiers the narrative in a subtle yet impactful manner. Through vast cinematographic shots of the unending landscapes of Jeju Island, he exemplifies the isolation imposed upon Jin-Woo and Hyun-Shik by society for being ‘different’, using the natural beauty of the serene island as a silent but powerful narrative device.

Moreover, the director does not tamper with the glaring reality of societal stigma and prejudice. Rather, he provides a realistic portrayal of community dynamics, revealing how intolerance can often reside within the most picturesque and seemingly peaceful settings. The silent hills and the lapping waves of the coast serve as both, a sanctuary and a prison, encapsulating the contrast that breathes life into this cinematic masterpiece.

The movie also impressively deals with the concept of ‘home.’ It emphasizes on the subjective meanings attached to the term and highlights how societal behavior can influence one's concept of it. Despite escaping the prejudice-ridden city life, Jin-Woo is faced with the bitter reality that discrimination is not confined by geographical boundaries.

On the other hand, the film examines how an individual can impact society as much as society impacts the individual. It sheds light on the power of acceptance and tolerance, emphasizing that every individual has the right to live in peace and be their true selves without being judged or ostracized.

A Distant Place, despite its somber theme, is a visually stunning piece replete with vast landscapes and deep emotional arcs. It does not shy away from mirroring the society we live in. It serves as a reminder that compassion and understanding are key to creating an inclusive community. Although the film's narrative highlights societal issues that seem hard to grapple with, it also emphasizes the indomitable human spirit that strives to rise above these challenges, seeking acceptance, love, and peace in the face of adversity.

In essence, A Distant Place is not just a critique of societal prejudice and intolerance—it's a breathtaking exploration of human connection, a testament to love that transcends societal norms, and a striking exposition on the struggle for acceptance in a world full of discrimination.