I Can Speak
I Can Speak

I Can Speak

2017
Movie
119 min
Korean

A grumpy old woman befriends a young civil servant and learns English from him. She then reveals to him her shocking past.

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Insights

IMDb7.4/10
Google Users94%
Director: Kim Hyun-seokGenres: Comedy, Drama, Family

Plot Summary

Na Bok-soon, a fiercely determined elderly woman and a seasoned part-time detective at a market, decides to learn English to address a grievance. She enrolls in a local community center, where she encounters Park Min-jae, a seemingly aloof but ultimately compassionate civil servant. Despite their initial clashes and age difference, they form an unlikely bond as Bok-soon diligently pursues her linguistic goals, leading to unexpected friendships and heartfelt moments.

Critical Reception

"I Can Speak" was a commercial and critical success in South Korea, praised for its heartwarming story, strong performances, and effective blend of humor and pathos. It resonated with audiences for its portrayal of intergenerational relationships and its underlying social commentary.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its touching story and the chemistry between the leads.
  • Celebrated for its ability to balance humor with poignant moments.
  • Lauded for Na Moon-hee's standout performance.

Google audience: Google users overwhelmingly loved "I Can Speak," highlighting its heartwarming narrative, the excellent performances of the lead actors, and its ability to evoke both laughter and tears. Many found the story to be uplifting and inspirational.

Awards & Accolades

Na Moon-hee won Best Actress at the 38th Blue Dragon Film Awards and the 54th Grand Bell Awards for her role. The film also received nominations for Best Picture and Best Screenplay at various Korean film awards.

Fun Fact

The film was inspired by a real-life incident where an elderly woman, who had suffered as a 'comfort woman' during Japanese colonial rule, learned English to speak out about her experiences at the UN.

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