Queen of Walking

Queen of Walking is a 2016 South Korean film that puts an interesting twist on the typical sports movie trope. This unique, heartwarming, and somewhat quirky film is directed by Baek Seung-Hwa and features an incredibly talented cast that includes Won Choi, Shim Eun-kyung, and Jeong-do Heo. The primary plot of this film revolves around the unconventional sport of 'race walking', and while that might not sound exciting, the narrative and character development manage to keep you engaged and invested.

The movie tells the stirring tale of high school student, Manbok (played by the ever-versatile Shim Eun-kyung), who lives with her family in a small, remote village in Korea. Manbok's one unique attribute is that she doesn't like to take the bus to school. Instead, she walks 4-hour one-way trips each day, and does not see anything astonishing about her endurance. Although she wants to become a hanbok (traditional Korean dress) designer, she struggles academically, and this makes her future uncertain.

After Manbok faints one day due to anemia, her PE teacher, Soo-Ji, (played by Park Joo-hee) discovers Manbok's exceptional physical power. Admiring her stamina, the teacher encourages her to take up 'race walking.' Contrary to Manbok's uninspiring academic life, she outranks various seasoned athletes and becomes a surprise sensation in the world of sports. The sport itself is not something commonly known, but the eccentricity and uniqueness of the sport make the film all the more appealing.

Eun-kyung gives a compelling performance as Manbok, charmingly portraying the wide-eyed innocence and determination of her character. Other than excelling in walking, Manbok also has the exceptional ability to vividly recall everything she listens to while walking, an element that adds an engaging twist to the story. She also possesses a whimsical imagination. The movie includes several heartwarming sequences where Manbok's dreams and imaginations come to life on screen in the vibrantly animated interludes, adding a touch of surrealistic whimsy.

There's a whole cast of fascinating characters who come to life, thanks to the strong performances by the ensemble, from Manbok’s family to her PE teacher. Won Choi and Jeong-do Heo, known for their stellar performances, also shine in their respective roles. The film strikes a balance between humor and emotion, thanks to its cast who breathe life into their roles with humor, warmth, and vivacity.

While primarily a sports film at heart, Queen of Walking explores much more than just race walking; this endearing film also delves into themes of personal growth, striving for dreams, and the importance of determination and tenacity. It beautifully explores the journey of a young girl from a quaint town as she discovers her extraordinary talent and her tireless efforts to make her dream come true.

The film's setting also adds to its charm. The serene Korean countryside provides a picturesque backdrop to this engaging tale, with a calming aesthetic that beautifully contrasts with the internal upheaval experienced by Manbok. The steady pace of the film also serves to mirror the protagonist's walking, which may seem slow at first but carries a lot of endurance and patience.

Joining the ranks of other memorable South Korean films, Queen of Walking brings its viewers an inspiring narrative about seeing the extraordinary in the ordinary. It's a film that reflects on the idea that anyone can be great when given the right opportunity and support. Brimming with heart and imbued with a heartfelt message, Queen of Walking is an uplifting drama that showcases the human spirit's resilience in the face of adversity — no matter how fast or slow you may move towards it.

Overall, Queen of Walking is not your typical sports film; it is a life-affirming tale that combines the charm of rural life, the drive for personal achievement, the bonds of family, and the never-ending journey towards self-discovery all into one cinematic experience. Whether you're a fan of sports films or looking for a heartwarming tale of dreams and resilience, Queen of Walking is certainly a movie that deserves a watch.