Good films don’t need gorgeous actresses and breath-taking landscapes. A good movie is all about the story. The story is about the hero of the film. Korean films are known to have intelligent storytelling, narratives and stories that are unique. We have created a list of Korean films that prove that a story is all you need for a good film.
1. Parasite
You have to be living under a rock to not know about the Oscar-winning movie Parasite. The story of economic differences and class struggles is beautifully explored through this thriller that had everyone on the edge of their seats. The poor Kim family sees an opportunity when their son starts working at the rich Park family. Soon, the characters start taking over the house of the Park family and live a parasitic life.
2. Moonlit Winter
A beautiful film about love and expectations, this film revolves around a mother-daughter duo. They travel to Otaru, where the person who used to send letters to Yunhui (the mother) live. She expects that she may find her first love here. Beautiful storytelling interwoven with complex characters makes this film one of a kind.
3. The Handmaiden
With an intelligent and structured plot, this film had everything great to offer. A Korean con-man with the help of an orphan pickpocketer, hatches a plan to seduce and cheat a rich Japanese woman of her inheritance. The actors give wonderful performances and give a range of emotions from anger, love, disappointment and lust.
4. Burning
This 2018 thriller drama tells a chilling story of Korean youth and a story of rage because of the isolation and loneliness that one experiences. The story starts with a young man who agrees to take care of a cat that belonged to a girl who was previously his neighbour. When she comes back, she introduces him to her boyfriend and his hobbies.
5. Treeless Mountain
This movie tugs at your heart like no other. This story is of two little girls abandoned by their mother, who is on a search for her husband. She leaves them with her alcoholic neglecting sister. The two little girls take care of each other by selling roasted grasshoppers and waiting for their mother all summer. A tear-jerker if we’ve seen one.
6. Secret Sunshine
This is a story of a widow, who moves to a different place for a new start with her son. Sadly, in unfortunate circumstances her son is abducted. The movie is an ode to moving on and finding love again amidst the chaos and problems that persist in life. A movie was full of sadness and hope that will make you cry for sure!
7. The King And The Clown
This is a unique story of two clowns arrested for satirizing the king and entrusted with the job of reprieving him and making him laugh. One does not come across this kind of movie that easily. The storyline definitely took the cake in this one.
8. The Wailing
A horror-thriller that keeps you glued to your seats till the very end. A rural town is horrified when a series of brutal murders start happening with the arrival of a mysterious stranger. This movie keeps you on edge and there is never a dull moment in the film.
9. Peppermint Candy
A story dealing with heavy topics of suicide and depression should be given a lot of thought. This movie is definitely up there. This story is about a young depressed man who commits suicide. The movies walk us through his life stages, which might have led him to take such a drastic step. The movie leaves you haunted and sad and all the emotions in between.
10. Memories Of Murder
This movie is so twisted that it becomes difficult to take in all that is happening. A beautifully crafted screenplay that tells the story of a serial killer who has Alzheimer's and his quest to save his daughter from her abusive psychotic boyfriend. Beautifully portrayed by the characters and a strong storyline that makes it a five-star movie.
