Korean cinema’s new wave: Thrillers, detectives, and hidden truths
A girl with closed eyes: A promising debut
The Korean thriller film A Girl With Closed Eyes is set to make waves at the Toronto International Film Festival before its world premiere at the Busan festival in October. This film has already secured a world sales representative in Finecut, a testament to its potential impact on the global stage.
Plot and characters
The narrative centers around a murder suspect and a detective with a shared past. Their paths cross again through the murder of a bestselling author, leading them to uncover hidden truths as the investigation deepens. This intriguing plot promises a blend of suspense and emotional depth, making it a must-watch for thriller enthusiasts.
Cast and crew
The film stars Kim Minha, known for her role in the acclaimed Apple TV+ series Pachinko, as the suspect. The detective is portrayed by Moon Choi, who has delivered memorable performances in Deliver Us From Evil, Okja, and Anarchist From Colony. Directed by Chun Sunyoung, whose short film Good Night was featured at Cannes Critics’ Week, this film marks her feature debut. Finecut will showcase footage in Toronto, giving audiences a sneak peek into this highly anticipated film.
Production and backing
Presented by Solaire Partners, a venture capital firm behind box office hits like Parasite, Extreme Job, 12.12: The Day, and Next Sohee, A Girl With Closed Eyes is currently in advanced post-production. The film has been selected for Busan’s Korean Cinema Today section, dedicated to critically acclaimed commercial movies.
By the stream: Hong Sangsoo’s latest masterpiece
Another highlight from Finecut is By the Stream, the latest project by Korean auteur Hong Sangsoo. Premiering at Locarno earlier this month, where it won the best performance award, the film will next feature in the Centrepiece section in Toronto.
Artistic vision
Hong Sangsoo is known for his unique storytelling and minimalist style, often exploring themes of human relationships and existential musings. By the Stream continues this tradition, offering a contemplative narrative that resonates with his previous works.
Noise: A horror-thriller to watch
Finecut’s Korean horror-thriller Noise recently premiered at the Sitges fantasy festival and has a market screening at Toronto Industry Select. This film promises to deliver spine-chilling moments and a gripping storyline, making it a standout in the horror genre.
Exorcism chronicles: The beginning
Finecut is also introducing Exorcism Chronicles: The Beginning, an animated adaptation of a best-selling Korean novel. The story follows a doctor-turned-priest who must protect a naïve yet powerful child from his corrupt master. This film had its world premiere at the Annecy International Animation Film Festival, showcasing the versatility and creativity of Korean cinema.
Animation and storytelling
The animation in Exorcism Chronicles: The Beginning is expected to be visually stunning, bringing the novel’s rich narrative to life. The film’s blend of supernatural elements and emotional depth makes it a compelling watch for fans of animated films and supernatural thrillers alike.
Reflections on Korean cinema
Korean cinema continues to captivate audiences worldwide with its innovative storytelling and diverse genres. From the suspenseful A Girl With Closed Eyes to the contemplative By the Stream, and the chilling Noise, these films highlight the rich tapestry of narratives emerging from South Korea. The animated Exorcism Chronicles: The Beginning further showcases the country’s ability to blend traditional storytelling with modern animation techniques.
For cinema and TV series enthusiasts, these films offer a glimpse into the evolving landscape of Korean cinema. Each film brings a unique perspective, whether through the lens of a detective thriller, a horror narrative, or an animated supernatural tale. As these films make their mark on international festivals, they pave the way for more Korean stories to be told and appreciated globally.
In the world of cinema, where stories transcend borders and cultures, Korean films continue to stand out, offering fresh and compelling narratives that resonate with audiences everywhere.