Gyeongju

Gyeongju is a 2014 South Korean film directed by acclaimed filmmaker Zhang Lu. The film boasts a talent-packed cast led by the regarded actor Park Hae-il, with supporting roles delivered by Shin Min-a, and Jin-Seo Yoon. This poignant and beautiful movie is a patient observer of the lives of its characters and their surroundings, sculpting a rich tapestry of human connection, love, memory, and cultural heritage.

Delving into the film's plot, the narrative mainly revolves around the character Choi Hyeon, portrayed by Park Hae-il. Choi Hyeon is a Korean expatriate who works as a professor in Beijing. Following the passing of an old colleague, he returns to South Korea to attend the funeral. On this journey, a vivid memory resurfaces in Choi's mind about a peculiar wall painting he once saw in a teahouse in Gyeongju seven years ago. This unusual reminiscence prompts him to embark on a spontaneous mission to rediscover the painting.

In his cleanse for past recollections, Choi, with the assistance of his taxi driver, visits the teahouse only to find it to be nowadays a cafe owned by Yun-hui, a character subtly performed by Shin Min-a. Despite the casual nature of their encounters, a fine thread of romance breezes between Yun-hui and Choi, though both the characters are ridden by past experiences and anxieties.

Intriguingly, the film isn’t just about the characters; it is equally about the city Gyeongju itself. The landscape of Gyeongju is prominently featured in the movie, with the director cleverly highlighting its rich cultural history and remarkable scenery. It is a city of ancient tombs, temples, and art forms, offering a picturesque backdrop for the unfolding story. The film uses these elements as a metaphor and contrasts it with the inner-world of the main characters, their contemplation, regrets, lost chances and hopeful longing.

The movie's charm also lies in its simplistic yet powerful conversations, intimacy built within silences, and stirring performances by the lead actors. Park Hae-il, in particular, delivers a restrained performance with an air of vulnerability and melancholy. His nuanced interpretation of Choi Hyeon serves as the emotional backbone of the film.

On the other side, Shin Min-a’s portrayal of Yun-hui is also intricately nuanced and strikingly real, making it easy for the audience to empathize and connect with her character. Her underplayed emotions give depth to her character, from dealing with the cafe's heritage to managing her sideline business and grappling with her past.

The strength of Gyeongju also lies in its depiction of ordinary human interactions and close observations of societal norms. Zhang Lu paints an honest and authentic picture of the socio-cultural landscape of South Korea. The film meticulously captures the local customs, the lived-in interiors, the late-night gatherings around Soju (a popular Korean drink), and the scenic beauty of Gyeongju. The movie hints at the cultural contrasts between China and Korea without making it the central theme, providing international viewers with an insightful glimpse into Korean culture.

And lastly, nuanced camerawork and the soundtrack of the film enhance its visual and emotional drama. The cinematography is picturesque with its lush and detailed portrayal of Gyeongju surroundings, while the bracing soundtrack perfectly complements the film's tranquil pace and contemplative mood.

In conclusion, Gyeongju is a metaphoric exploration of the past's relationship with the present, and memory's interaction with actuality. It is a careful reflection on life, longing, and the quest for lost time. Noted for its deeply felt performances, powerful script and director Zhang Lu's clear-eyed storytelling, this film is a gem among the realms of East Asian cinema. As an immersive and contemplative cinematic experience, it lingers on long after the screen fades to black. Gyeongju is undoubtedly a must-watch film for lovers of thoughtful and meaningful cinema.