
Movie spotlight
Burning
'Burning' is a conversation between two young mothers brought together by strange and cruel social realities, at a funeral ghat in Varanasi
Insights
Plot Summary
Jong-su, a hard-up young farmer, reunites with Hae-mi, a childhood friend who claims to have traveled abroad. When Hae-mi returns, she introduces Jong-su to Ben, a mysterious, wealthy young man she met while traveling. Their lives become entangled in a surreal and increasingly tense manner, culminating in a shocking event.
Critical Reception
Lee Chang-dong's "Burning" was met with widespread critical acclaim, lauded for its masterful direction, ambiguity, and compelling performances. Critics praised its slow-burn tension and its exploration of social class, alienation, and mystery, making it one of the most discussed films of its release year.
What Reviewers Say
A masterfully crafted, slow-burn mystery that leaves audiences with lingering questions.
Praised for its ambiguous narrative and unsettling atmosphere.
Yoo Ah-in, Steven Yeun, and Jeon Jong-seo deliver captivating performances.
Google audience: Audiences generally found "Burning" to be a thought-provoking and unsettling film, appreciating its atmospheric tension and the performances of its lead actors. Some viewers noted its slow pace and ambiguity, while others found these elements to be strengths that contributed to the film's impact.
Awards & Accolades
Nominated for the Palme d'Or at the 2018 Cannes Film Festival, won Best Foreign Language Film at the 2018 National Board of Review Awards, and was South Korea's submission for the Best Foreign Language Film at the 91st Academy Awards.
Fun Fact
Steven Yeun learned to speak Korean for his role as Ben, a feat he discussed as being challenging but rewarding for immersing himself in the character.
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