Secret Zoo

Secret Zoo is a lively and light-hearted South Korean comedy-drama film that was released in 2020. Directed by Son Jae-gon, it stars well-known South Korean actors, including Jae-hong Ahn, Kang So-ra, and Yeong-gyu Park. The movie takes a unique spin on the workplace comedy genre, using the backdrop of a zoo to explore themes of perseverance, teamwork, and deception.

The storyline follows Ahn Tae-Soo (Jae-hong Ahn), a struggling lawyer who is in desperate need of a stable job to afford his ailing sister's surgery. When given an unorthodox job offer by his demanding and harsh employer to become the director of a zoo, Ahn Tae-Soo is initially hesitant. However, weighed down by his financial needs, he decides to take on the challenge, despite having no experience in managing a zoo or handling animals.

However, upon arrival at the zoo, Ahn Tae-Soo faces a shocking revelation. Due to financial crises, the zoo no longer holds any animals. Instead of animals in the enclosures, there are the eccentric and dedicated staff members who would lose their jobs if the zoo were to close. Faced with the challenge of preventing the zoo's foreclosure, Ahn Tae-Soo comes up with a wild and daring plan – to have the staff disguise themselves as animals and put on shows for visitors until they can afford real animals.

Jae-hong Ahn's portrayal of the quick-thinking and resourceful Ahn Tae-Soo is entertaining and endearing. Alongside him, Kang So-ra plays a staunch and passionate zoo veterinarian who initially doubts Ahn Tae-Soo's abilities but ends up supporting his crazy plan. Yeong-gyu Park and the rest of the cast enhance the humor and heartwarming aspect of the film with their charm, passion, and commitment to preserving the zoo, even if it means behaving like animals.

The movie also highlights a critical commentary on corporate greed, corruption, and job insecurity, as emphasized by Ahn Tae-Soo's desperation to secure any kind of employment to support himself and his sister. Deeper layers of the narrative unfold as the employees begin to bond and form real connections in their bid to save the zoo. The funny and creative animal impersonations by the staff members will undoubtedly bring laughter and joy to the viewers.

The dedicated employees don't just put on animal suits; they study every detail of their chosen animals, from food to movements, to bring the respective animals to life. They balance the humor by showcasing an earnest dedication to their animal 'roles' - this aspect brings an incredibly touching element to the film.

Stylistically, the movie enjoys a vibrant and colourful palette, reflective of its cool and comedic nature. The soundtrack complements the mood and serves to exaggerate the comic effects. The cinematography is quite expressive, capturing the absurdity of the situation without losing the seriousness of the underlying message.

With its quirky premise, Secret Zoo not only brings alive the inherent humor in donning animal suits but also reminds us of the importance of dedication, teamwork, and integrity, even in the face of adversity. As an audience, we're cheering for the characters due to their hilarious and often ridiculous attempts to save their jobs, but beneath the constant laughter, there’s a heartwarming narrative about people coming together to support one another.

In conclusion, Secret Zoo is an enjoyable and refreshing comedy-drama that offers an unexpected mix of laughter, tears, and motivational aspects. Its unique premise, coupled with a stellar cast, makes it a must-watch for fans of Korean cinema or for those who love unusual yet heartening movies. One would surely come out of it with a smile and a warm heart.