Burning

Average Bufph Rating: 4.7 / 5.0

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Burning

TMDB 7.372 (1845)

Yoo Ah-in, Steven Yeun, Jeon Jong-seo, Kim Soo-kyung, Choe Seung-ho

2018-05-17

Deliveryman Jong-su is out on a job when he runs into Hae-mi, a girl who once lived in his neighborhood. She asks if he'd mind looking after her cat while she's away on a trip to Africa. On her return, she introduces to Jong-su an enigmatic young man named Ben, who she met during her trip. One day Ben tells Jong-su about his most unusual hobby.

Reviews by public Bufph profiles
  • john.galt profile picture
    john.galt
    July 31, 2026

    A mesmerizing work that challenges one's preconceptions of narrative structure, Burning is a profound exploration of desire and its consequences. The film's enigmatic plot unravels with the precision of a mathematical theorem, each scene a deliberate statement on human nature. Lee Chang-dong's direction is nothing short of masterful, crafting a visual language that speaks to the intellect and soul. The performances are transcendent, particularly that of Jun Jong-seo, whose portrayal of the mysterious Hae-mi is a testament to the enigmatic nature of existence itself. A film that demands the utmost engagement and reflection, it stands as a paragon of cinematic excellence.

  • scifi-nerd profile picture
    scifi-nerd
    January 2, 2026

    A masterclass in slow-burning mystery, 'Burning' is a film that lingers long after the credits roll. The narrative is a complex web of intrigue and psychological tension, drawing you in with its enigmatic characters and subdued yet powerful performances. Steven Yeun's portrayal of the enigmatic protagonist is captivating, and the film's exploration of obsession and the unknown is both unsettling and mesmerizing. Director Lee Chang-dong crafts a haunting atmosphere that keeps you questioning until the very end. This isn't your typical thriller; it's a contemplative piece that challenges you to look beyond the surface.

  • simone.dubois profile picture
    simone.dubois
    December 23, 2025

    In the realm of enigmatic cinema, 'Burning' stands as a masterful exploration of the ineffable. Lee Chang-dong’s direction weaves an intricate tapestry of desire, ennui, and the uncanny, pushing the boundaries of narrative form. The film’s visual composition is meticulous, each frame a carefully constructed enigma that invites multiple interpretations. The use of symbolism, particularly through the burning grass motif, adds a layer of profound ambiguity, compelling the viewer to ponder the elusive nature of truth and perception.

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