I Can I Will I Did

I Can I Will I Did is a 2017 movie directed by Nadine Truong that provides an uplifting story about overcoming one’s adversities and harnessing the power of self-belief to unlock resilience and strength. The movie explores a variety of themes such as mental health, bullying, family dynamics, martial arts and personal growth, utilizing a well-paced narrative structure that finely balances drama and grit while maintaining an undertone of hope and quiet courage throughout.

The protagonist of the movie is a bullied Korean boy named Ben, played by Ik Jo Kang. Known for his vulnerability, introversion and sensitivity, Ben sinks into severe depression and even attempts suicide, reflecting the intense struggles faced by his character. The movie is largely focused on Ben's journey to healing, as he navigates the challenges presented by bullying and his quest to reclaim his own life.

Mike Faist, offering an equally impressive performance on screen, portrays the character of Adrian, an irritable Foster teenager whose aggressive aura tends to create a formidable first impression. However, the film also presents the character's internal struggles, providing a complex character that is suffering from his own hardships. Through these characters, the movie showcases an authentic portrayal of suffering and resilience that is both heart-wrenching and heart-warming.

Additionally, the movie introduces the character of Dee, played by Ellie Lee, who offers an important influence in Ben’s life. Dee appears as a spirited pediatric cancer patient who is experiencing her own adversity. Despite her challenges, Dee is depicted as a beacon of positivity and resilience, providing a refreshing contrast against the backdrop of the serious issues explored in the film.

On the surface, I Can I Will I Did may appear as another high school drama with martial arts as its main draw, but the movie is much more than that. Besides its well-choreographed martial arts sequences, the film is about self-discovery, resilience, and personal transformation under challenging circumstances. It dives headfirst into the raw truths of mental health issues and the often painful journey towards recovery, turning a spotlight on subjects often considered taboo in popular culture.

One of the film's central elements is the martial arts philosophy taught by Ben’s adoptive grandfather, a former taekwondo master. The grandpa's approach to martial arts emphasizes more on its spiritual, mind-body connectivity than its physical aspects. This character imparts a profound philosophy within the movie, "I Can, I Will, I Did," which inspires Ben to fight his battles, and this philosophy eventually shapes the entire theme of the movie.

One interesting feature of I Can I Will I Did is its noteworthy cinematography that adds another layer of finesse to the compelling narrative. The movie uses its medium effectively to tell a story, with brilliant visual contrasts between moments of despair and moments of triumph. The cluttered and muted tones of Ben’s depression are starkly contrasted with the clarity of the dojo where he learns martial arts and starts on the path of recovery. These visual elements work together to physically represent the mental states of the characters, adding a layer of nuance to the storytelling.

The soundtrack of the film beautifully complements the movie's narrative. The carefully curated music helps in emphasizing the emotional scenes and makes the narrative more impactful. It resonates well with the emotional journey of the characters and enhances the overall viewing experience.

In conclusion, I Can I Will I Did is a powerful, tear-jerking film exploring the resilience of the human spirit, lush with transformative character arcs and a moving narrative that is sure to evoke a wide range of emotions from its viewers. The film's underlining message of empowerment, self-belief, overcoming adversity, and triumph is what sets this film apart in the realm of socially conscious cinema. This film is a must-watch for all those who appreciate cinema that goes beyond pure entertainment, offering valuable socio-cultural insights and profound life lessons.