"May 18": Dark Politics, Warm People
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Upcoming film "May 18" carries a heavy load on its shoulders. The film portrays the Gwangju Uprising, a defining moment in Korea's modern history. 27 years ago, students of Gwangju initiated a protest against suppressive measures of the military dictator CHUN Doo Hwan and they were joined by other citizens; it resulted in the citizens taking control of the city. However, CHUN answered with military force against the civilians and from May 18, 1980 until May 21 hundreds of civilians lost their lives and thousands were wounded.
At a press conference, director Kim Ji-hoon said that he wanted to make an accurate film of the massacre and to do justice to the people involved. Reportedly, at special screenings in Gwangju, the audience was emotionally overwhelmed by the film and applauded the film.
But there is another side to the film, stressed by director KIM and the actors. Director KIM explained that he wanted to focus on the people rather than sort of documenting the events. Therefore, he brought human aspects to the foreground.
Ahn Sung-ki pointed out the heartwarming aspects of the film and the comical touches, which are often overlooked. Other actors also pronounced similar views on the film when they highlighted scenes between loved ones, along with emotionally heavy scenes and the importance of the subject matter.
Yi Ch'ang-ho (KOFIC)
At a press conference, director Kim Ji-hoon said that he wanted to make an accurate film of the massacre and to do justice to the people involved. Reportedly, at special screenings in Gwangju, the audience was emotionally overwhelmed by the film and applauded the film.
But there is another side to the film, stressed by director KIM and the actors. Director KIM explained that he wanted to focus on the people rather than sort of documenting the events. Therefore, he brought human aspects to the foreground.
Ahn Sung-ki pointed out the heartwarming aspects of the film and the comical touches, which are often overlooked. Other actors also pronounced similar views on the film when they highlighted scenes between loved ones, along with emotionally heavy scenes and the importance of the subject matter.
Yi Ch'ang-ho (KOFIC)
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