South Korean cinema is in the throes of a creative explosion where mavericks are encouraged and masters are venerated. But from where has this phenomenon emerged? What is the culture that has yielded this range of filmmakers? With The Nine Lives of Korean Cinema, French critic, writer and documentarian Hubert Niogret provides a broad overview but, nevertheless, an excellent entry point into this unique type of national cinema that still remains a mystery for many people. The product of a troubled social and political history, Korean cinema sports an identity that is unique in much modern film. Niogret's documentary tells of the country's cinematic history - the ups along with the downs - and gives further voice to the artists striving to express their concerns, fears and aspirations.
Direction
Niogret lets the filmmakers talk—no filter, no Hollywood polish.
Production
Rare 2005 access to Korean masters before global fame hit.
Director
Hubert Niogret
Trivia, insights & behind the scenes
This doc predates the 'Korean New Wave' global takeover by Parasite—making it a fascinating time capsule of artists who didn't yet know they'd conquer Cannes.
Hubert Niogret was among the first Western critics to take Korean cinema seriously, making this essentially required homework for understanding how the world discovered these filmmakers.
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