Goryeojang

Goryeojang is a South Korean historical drama directed by Ki-young Kim, making waves as one of the pioneering works in the 1960s era of Korean cinema. Its primary cast includes Jin Kyu Kim, Jeung-nyeo Ju, and Ye-chun Lee, who bring forth an engaging performance that captures the essence of the human spirit, and embody a unique perspective into Korea's cultural values, traditions, and societal norms.

The title of the movie, Goryeojang, refers to the ancient Korean tradition of abandoning the elder members of the family in remote mountains when they can no longer contribute to the family’s livelihood. It is a heart-rending testament to the harsh reality of social constructs, and an inherent commentary on how poverty and challenging environmental conditions can lead individuals to make unthinkable decisions.

Set during the tumultuous Goryeo Dynasty period, the film follows an impoverished family led by the patriarch named Kim Yang- Kwang, portrayed by Jin Kyu Kim, who produce salt to earn a meager living. The supporting characters, acted by Jeung-nyeo Ju and Ye-chun Lee, play pivotal roles that significantly shape the narrative.

Yang-Kwang lives with his wife, Jeung-nyeo Ju, their mentally ill son, Ye-chun Lee, and his elderly, frail mother. He tirelessly dedicates himself to the back-breaking task of extracting and selling salt while grappling with the harsh realities of poverty, the real threat of famine, and the burden of caring for his declining mother and sick son.

The family's harsh reality is further exacerbated by the societal pressure to comply with the Goryeojang ritual. As the matriarch's health diminishes and struggles within the family escalate, the audience is left to grapple with the ethical dilemma of balancing societal expectations against the bond of filial love.

Kim Ki-young meticulously explores the compelling dynamics of a family enduring the hardships of their existence while forcing the viewers to take an introspective look into the societal norms of the period. The portrayal of the Korean tradition stretches beyond the superficial description, delving into the realms of morality, social pressure, and the resilience of human spirit uplifted by love and familial bonds.

Goryeojang’s brilliance lies in weaving a cohesive and compelling narrative that mixes folklore, social commentary, and historical realism, painted against the rich tapestry of Korea’s past. The background, costumes, and sets are meticulously designed to give an authentic representation of the Goryeo era.

Jin Kyu Kim is compelling in his portrayal of the family head, struggling with his duty, commitment, love, and societal pressures. Jeung-nyeo Ju beautifully complements Kim's role, capturing the essence of a dedicated wife and mother enveloped in her struggles. Ye-chun Lee delivers an incredible performance as the mentally ill, innocent character caught in the turmoil of reality.

Interlaced with moments of love, despair, resilience, and sacrifice, Goryeojang is a hard-hitting indictment of the harsh realities of life marked by abject poverty and the extremes to which societal norms can dictate personal choices, pushing people into situations that inherently conflict with their values.

In addition to presenting a vivid portrayal of the harsh living conditions during the Goryeo era, the film also presents the bleak outlook on life endured by the lower income class, thus serving as a critique of the social and economic problems experienced during this era.

Goryeojang is more than just a film; it is a cinematic experience that ensures the audience's emotions are fully engaged through its heartfelt performances, vivid and realistic portrayal of its characters' hardships, and the historically accurate representation of society during the Goryeo Dynasty. This film is nothing short of a masterpiece meant to educate, inform, and provoke contemplation on societal expectations and the true meaning of family ties. It allows one to appreciate the good fortune of our current era but also serves as a solemn reminder of the unfortunate compromises borne by our ancestors in their struggle for survival.

In conclusion, Goryeojang, with its remarkable direction, storytelling, and performances, warrants a watch for all those who appreciate deep, captivating narratives rooted in history and culture, laced with real and raw human emotions. This classic film successfully places itself in the annals of Korean cinema as a deeply thought-provoking and engaging social commentary.