“The Land of the Morning Calm,” interview with Park Ri-woong

In an insightful interview at the 27th Far East Film Festival, director Park Ri-woong discusses his evocative film, “The Land of the Morning Calm“. This film, whose title serves as a historical nickname for Korea, poignantly reflects the serene facade of a coastal village while contrasting it with the pressing societal issues confronting modern Korea. Park Ri-woong reveals that while the title initially suggests tranquility, it is deeply anchored in a narrative that examines the profound themes of barrenness—not just in the physical landscape, but in the emotional and social fabric of contemporary Korean life.

A Village as a mirror of society

Set in the coastal village of Na Mayon, the film operates as a microcosm where the lives of various characters intersect. One notable character is a captain, initially portrayed as unlikable, whose backstory gradually unveils the scars and struggles that shape his identity. Park Ri-woong skillfully employs these characters to delve into deep themes such as immigration, community disintegration, and the burdens individuals bear in an increasingly isolating society. He emphasizes that the motivations driving the characters are not merely personal; they serve as a reflection of wider societal dilemmas, particularly the decline in birth rates and the rising disillusionment among the youth.

Crafting relatable characters

During the interview, he elaborates on his approach to character development, stating he aimed to craft a protagonist compelling enough to draw viewers’ curiosity, encouraging them to invest emotionally in “The Land of the Morning Calm“. The director cast Yangi Kyung as the fiercely hopeful mother figure, drawing inspirations from real-life experiences, including elements from his own family history. This connection adds an authentic layer to the narrative, allowing the struggles depicted in the film to resonate more deeply with the audience.

Overcoming production challenges

Additionally, Park Ri-woong shared compelling insights into the production process of “The Land of the Morning Calm“. With only 28 days allotted for filming, every scene was meticulously planned and executed. He recounts the challenges faced during production, particularly a pivotal scene where the character Yongsu falls into water, necessitating careful considerations about safety and logistics. Such challenges reflect the gritty reality of filmmaking, where creative ambition must often contend with practical limitations.

Recognition and perseverance

Furthermore, the director expresses his feelings about the film’s recognition at the Busan Film Festival. While he aspired to win awards, he was astonished by the level of acknowledgment it received, especially after his debut film, Girl on the Bulldozer, did not receive the attention he had hoped for. This experience reinforced for him the value of perseverance in storytelling and reaffirmed his commitment to meaningful cinema.

In conclusion, Park Ri-woong‘s insights into “The Land of the Morning Calm” unveil a rich narrative tapestry where the simplicity of village life sharply contrasts with complex, pressing issues. The film invites viewers to reflect on the nature of community, resilience, and hope in the face of adversity.

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