The Way Home (Jibero) is a (deceptively) simple story of the values of the 'two Koreas' (the traditional, and the contemporary, consumerist), and unconditional love that is at the heart of any family. It can properly be called a Korean 'neorealist' film, in the tradition of similar great films from De Sica and Ray--not to mention two Japanese masters, Ozu and Kurosawa. The principal actors in this film (the grandmother and the spoiled boy) have never acted before, but deliver surprisingly effective performances. The viewer will soon forget, as I did, that one is watching a 'foreign' film, for The Way Home is truly universal, as all great films are. It is sad that this small gem will not be opening in 2000+ theatres around the country, but it is far better and more beautiful than any 'blockbuster' which will grace the megaplexes this year. Try to catch it, if at all possible!
Review of The Way Home
The Way Home
(2002)
Truly moving and universal--destined to become a Korean classic
30 November 2002