Little Forest

Little Forest is a 2018 South Korean drama film directed by Yim Soon-rye and starring Kim Tae-ri, Ryu Jun-yeol, and Moon So-ri. The film is a tender and contemplative tale about a young woman who finds solace in the simplicity of rural life after failing to acclimatize to the bustling city of Seoul.

The film focuses on Hye-Won (played by Kim Tae-ri), a young woman whose struggles with her life in the city bring her back to her countryside home. Over the course of the film, she rekindles her love for a simpler life, reestablishes roots in the home she once fled, and rediscovers her childhood friends. At its core, the movie is a heart-rendering musing on homecoming, the importance of connections with nature, and the therapeutic power of food.

Kim Tae-ri's portrayal of Hye-Won is both thoughtful and nuanced. She breathes life into her character's transition from a stressed city-girl to a peaceful countrywoman with remarkable grace. Her flawless performance is complemented by Ryu Jun-yeol and Moon So-ri who make a significant impact in their respective roles.

The narrative is cleverly segmented by the passing seasons, which acts as a symbolic backdrop for Hye-Won’s emotional journey. Each season in Little Forest is not just a time marker, but a character in its own right, shaping the narrative, and the protagonist’s emotional state.

The cinematography is remarkable and captures the rural setting in lush and vivid detail, presenting it as a soothing antidote to the rapid, urban life. Whether it's the dense, green woods in spring, the sun-kissed fields of the summer, the auburn foliage in autumn, or the pristine white blanket of winter, the film aesthetically intertwines nature and raw emotions. It is the kind of movie where the imagery lingers long after you've finished watching it.

Another unique aspect of the film is its attention to the theme of food. Hye-Won cooks local, seasonal dishes using the ingredients she grows or forages from her surroundings. The scenes of cooking and feasting that punctuate the narrative are not just visually engaging, but also deeply symbolic. They weave stories around food, its connection to memories and self-care.

The film has a contemplative, slow-burn pace that may not appeal to everyone, but is key to its ambiance. The languid pace allows viewers to soak in every nuance, every emotion, and every detail of the scenic landscapes. There is a quiet, zen-like quality about Little Forest that envelops the audience, refreshing the senses like a gentle breeze.

A significant part of Little Forest's charm lies in its simplicity, and director Yim Soon-rye masterfully keeps the storyline engaging throughout its duration. There is no dramatic climax or moral teaching; the movie is an experience that reminds viewers of the importance of slowing down, the solace of home, and the healing power of nature and food.

The music composed by Kim Tae-seong for the film perfectly complements its lush visuals and serene atmosphere. The soundtrack blends seamlessly with the narrative, underscoring the film's emotional depth and down-to-earth theme.

Aside from the visual delights and calming rhythm, Little Forest also subtly touches upon subject matters like abandonment, self-discovery, friendship, and the impact of dynamic urban life on mental health, without making them the focal point of the narration.

In summary, Little Forest is a visually stunning, emotionally soothing, introspective film about finding comfort in nature, simplicity, and homemade meals. Its lens focuses on the therapeutic benefits of sustainable living—an escape from the hassle of urban life. It is a delightful and heartwarming movie, perfect for those seeking a meditative, relaxing cinematic experience.