Average Bufph Rating: 4.5 / 5.0
Yoo Ah-in, Steven Yeun, Jeon Jong-seo
2018
Jong-su bumps into a girl who used to live in the same neighborhood, who asks him to look after her cat while she's on a trip to Africa. When back, she introduces Ben, a mysterious guy she met there, who confesses his secret hobby.
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.
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.
