Film Review: A Distant Place
by Marinell Haegelin

A DISTANT PLACE
Kun-Young Park, South Korea 2020

Russet red hues and variable greens, a golden light, and undulating hills dotted with grazing livestock beneath deeply blue skies manifest the pastoral beauty of Hwacheon, Gangwon-do. Living here has mellowed Jin-Woo (Kang Gil-woo); he’s been lucky – this random household is good-hearted, close-knitted, and caring. Young Seol is (Kim Si Ha) healthily flushed, and playful with a happy disposition. The ranch owner Joong Man (Ki Joo Bong), his daughter Moon Kyeong (Ki Do Young), and he have good teamwork rapport. Particularly at cattle auctions where the meditative Joong Man needs support selling one of his “friends.” His elderly mother, Myeong Soon (Choi Geum Soon) is also a good influence for Seol during their afternoons together. Mealtimes allow time to talk, joke about Seol calling him “mommy,” and talk through things. It’s been so idyllic that Jin-Woo is nervous and excited at Hyun Min’s (Kyung Hong) joining him and leaving Seoul behind; Hyun doesn’t look back.

Jin-Woo’s estranged twin Eun Young’s (Lee Sang-hee) showing up out of the blue causes discombobulations. Because Joong Man and Moon Kyeong, having figured out Jin-Woo and Hyun Min’s untraditional relationship, are still supportive. Whereas Eun Young, determined that now she’s married she’s taking Seol to Seoul, endlessly lists what she can give Seol. Conversely, the fetching child is polite and curious, addressing the peculiar Eun Young as “Lady.” She already reads “The Little Prince,” helps watch Grandmother, and so Jin-Woo’s guidance is established. She has a home.

Writer-director Kun-Young Park, together with Jung-hoon Yang’s reflective camerawork immerse audiences into the soothing quiet, peaceful, and nurturing qualities of rural Korea. As well as the contradictions scrutiny reveals: the sometimes-harsh side of animal husbandry, the townsfolks’ (hypocritical) friendliness, the dualities within personal relationships, and the ambivalence of family members’ intentions. The cast’s subtle distinctions and differences in their performances add character depth. A DISTANT PLACE doesn’t shy away from showing both sides of nature, thus proving that indeed hope springs eternal. It won the Outfest: Los Angeles Gay & Lesbian Film Festival 2021 Grand Jury Prize – International Narrative Feature.