Gook

On the day of the 1992 Los Angeles riots, two Korean-American brothers, Eli and Daniel, struggle to keep their shoe store open. When Kamilla, a young woman who is like a little sister to them, shows up seeking help, the trio find themselves in a fight for survival as the city descends into chaos. The film explores themes of race, community, and the immigrant experience.

Gook received generally positive reviews from critics, who praised its raw emotional power, compelling performances, and timely exploration of racial tensions. Some noted its indie filmmaking aesthetic and occasionally uneven pacing, but the overall sentiment was one of respect for its ambition and authenticity.

• A powerful and authentic portrayal of the 1992 LA riots and its impact on diverse communities.

• Praised for its raw emotional depth and strong performances from the lead actors.

• While sometimes raw, the film's exploration of racial dynamics and brotherhood is compelling.

Google audience: Audiences appreciated the film's honest depiction of difficult racial and social issues, with many finding the performances moving and the story impactful. The film's indie spirit and direct approach resonated well.

Won the NEXT Innovator Award at the 2017 Sundance Film Festival.

Director Justin Chon, who also stars in and wrote the film, was inspired by his own family's experiences during the 1992 LA riots and wanted to explore the Korean-American perspective, which he felt was often overlooked in media coverage.