Body of Light
Hanna, a Korean-American adoptee, wakes up disoriented in Chuncheon. After discovering a missing person flyer, she begins to uncover the secrets of a mysterious death. As the events unfold, Hanna faces her lost past, transcending life's karma. The reunion between life and death leads to another dilemma, ironically ending Hanna's long journey of self-discovery.
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Karma, a fundamental concept in Buddhism, refers to the consequences of thoughts, words, and actions. As defined by a dictionary, it specifically involves retribution in one’s current life for deeds performed in previous lifetimes. Director Jang Gun-ho’s latest film, Body of Light, delves into this theme, employing his distinctive style. The film tells the story of an adoptee who comes to Korea in response to a call resonating within, trying to find herself, and a man who reunites with someone he has waited for five decades, unfolding through the methodologies of the mystery thriller genre. Individuals who surrender to spiritual guidance are on one side, while those who pursue desires are on the other, and their confrontation sustains tension throughout the running time. Consistent with the director’s signature style, known for films like Mimist (2021) and Shit Can (2023), the film skillfully blends various art forms such as music, dance, visual arts, and photography. It vividly illustrates the scenic backdrops of Chuncheon, including Cheongpyeongsa Temple. This film also features Yu Jin-gyu’s acting and mime performances; he made an impressive appearance in Mimist and is a leading figure in mime. Comparing it with Past Lives (2023) would reveal the differences in Eastern and Western perspectives on karma. (MOON Seok)
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RUN AND GUN⎜film@paran.com
JANG Gun-ho
