R2 UK DVD
Friend tells the auto-biographical tale of director Kwak Kyung-taek and 3 of his closest friends. Although they come from different backgrounds, their bond is life-long and the film charts their early days in Busan (Pusan to us westerners) through high-school and their separation as some go off to university and the others rise through the street-ranks and become gangsters.
Sure, the story isn’t anything new but where the film excels is in its characters. They feel real and you become involved in their plights as easy as the other characters they share the screen with. Jang Kun-dong and Yo Oh-seong really shine here, they play the two gangsters who get involved with rival gangs and the outcome is heartbreakingly inevitable. Yo Oh-seong steels the film as the charming thug who will literally do anything for his friends whereas Jang Kun-dong’s character is more complex but you really feel for him as he grows tired of being ‘the right-hand’ man and longs to become boss.
Visually this movie is also outstanding, the sepia tint used throughout the film really plays to the ‘memoirs’ aesthetic the film has and will have your eyes in a seventh heaven. The soundtrack too, is overwhelmingly beautiful and really warms you up to the proceedings and of course will have you reaching for the Kleenex once the movie has climaxed.
Quite why this movie (one of the record holders for biggest box office draws in its homeland) has taken so long to arrive outside of Asia is a mystery. It’s a true classic of the Korean new-wave, one that launched the careers of one of the nation’s most talented directors and also that of its two leads; who are two truly talented men. Third Window Films are to be congratulated on one of the best releases for Asian cinema fans this year.
A tragic look on childhood that will affect all who see it, Friend is that rare beast that can capture the hearts and minds of its audience while not forcing them to feel what the director wants them to – it all comes naturally here. From the fine performances to the excellent work behind the camera, this movie is a true masterpiece that can finally be seen and adored by an audience outside of its homeland.
