PAJU
A film by Park Chan-ok
2009, 110 minutes
2009, 110 minutes
No. 261
Narrative
Narrative
Description
After a haunting accident while on the lam, Joongshik migrates to Paju, a gray town where the urban landscape is as bleak as the fate of its residents. In attempts to remain in hiding and sublimate the tragedies of his past, he finds a kindred spirit with secrets of her own. Her younger sister, Eunmo, disapproving of the romantic arrangement, quickly drives a wedge into the already aloof relationship.
Delicately unveiled through an anachronistic period of eight years, Paju tells the story of a man and his transgressions, a girl in conflict with herself, and the alienation that we often face—even in the presence of those we love. Writer/director Park Chan-Ok (Jealousy is My Middle Name) leaves no controversial stone unturned by exploring the dialectical forces at work within of a community that simultaneously resists and accepts change.
Festivals
Winner, Jury Prize, 13th Deauville Asian Film Festival
NETPAC Award, Pusan International Film Festival
Official Selection, Tribeca Film Festival
Official Selection,Melbourne International Film Festival
NETPAC Award, Pusan International Film Festival
Official Selection, Tribeca Film Festival
Official Selection,Melbourne International Film Festival
Reviews
“A masterpiece. With this film, Park Chan-ok revealed herself as one of Korean cinema’s smartest and most stylish talents. Complex and enigmatic.”
– Peter Bradshaw, The Guardian
“Riveting and pitch-perfect. A superior mystery.”
– Variety
