Oasis

Colour, 35 mm
Korea, 2002, 132 min
Section: Horizons - Awarded films
Oficiální stránky: www.cineclickasia.com

Synopsis

Upon his release from prison, Hong Jong-du goes looking for his relatives in Seoul. His brothers have moved and neither they and nor their mother are pleased to see him. Mildly retarded, Jong-du has continually been in and out of trouble because he just can’t seem to fit into society. Finally he gets work at a small car repair shop. Unknown to the family, he has found out the address of a man whose death he was involved in. There he meets the man’s daughter, Gong-ju, who is afflicted with cerebral palsy. Her brother and other relatives take little interest in her. Jong-du watches the girl in fascination, sends her flowers and fruit, and finally forces his way into her place. He does nothing to check his passion and tries to rape her. The girl has an attack and almost dies. In spite of everything, a fragile bond of friendship containing the seeds of love begins to form between the two outcasts. Jong-du is the only one who realizes that, despite her physical problems, his “princess” is an enchanting woman with a sense of humour. Those around them, however, aren’t willing to accept their relationship.

About the director

Lee Chang-dong (b. 1954, Taego) graduated in Korean language and literature and began a career in film, lecturing for 7 years. He is a respected author and an important figure on the contemporary Korean cultural scene. He wrote the script for To the Starry Island (1993), he then co-wrote Park’s A Single Spark (1995). He debuted in film with Chorok mulgoki (Green Fish, 1997), a winner of the Dragons & Tigers Award (best young director) at the 16th Vancouver IFF. Peppermint Candy (1999) followed; it was screened at Cannes, won three awards at Karlovy Vary. His third feature Oasis premiered internationally last year at the Venice IFF, taking the Special Prize for Best Director, the FIPRESCI Prize, and Moon So-ri was awarded the Marcello Mastroianni Award for Best Young Actress.