Burning

   Burning (2018), directed by Lee Chang-dong, is a slow-burn psychological mystery-thriller that delves into themes of obsession, alienation, and class disparity. The film is based on Haruki Murakami’s short story Barn Burning, but expands it into a complex narrative that leaves much to interpretation. The story revolves around three main characters: Jong-su (Yoo Ah-in), a lonely aspiring writer; Hae-mi (Jeon Jong-seo), a free-spirited young woman from his hometown; and Ben (Steven Yeun), a wealthy and mysterious man who befriends Hae-mi.

   Jong-Su, who lives a mundane life in rural Korea, reconnects with Hae-mi, an old acquaintance, and becomes infatuated with her. However, when Hae-mi returns from a trip with Ben, an enigmatic and wealthy man, Jong-su becomes increasingly suspicious of their relationship and Ben’s true nature. Ben casually reveals to Jong-su his strange hobby—burning greenhouses—which becomes a metaphor for his detached and potentially dangerous view of life. Jong-su’s growing obsession with Hae-mi and suspicion of Ben drives the tension of the film, leading to a shocking and ambiguous conclusion.

   As the film unfolds, it becomes a meditation on the frustrations and desires of the characters, particularly Jong-su, whose feelings of powerlessness and insignificance are amplified by his interactions with the enigmatic Ben. Burning builds its suspense through subtle, slow-paced storytelling, leaving much of the plot open to interpretation, particularly regarding the fate of Hae-mi and the true nature of Ben’s character.

Plot Highlights

   Jong-su reconnects with Hae-mi and begins to develop feelings for her. However, she soon introduces him to Ben, a wealthy man whose cryptic behavior makes Jong-su uneasy. Ben reveals a disturbing hobby of burning greenhouses, which Jong-su interprets as a veiled confession to something far more sinister. When Hae-mi suddenly disappears without explanation, Jong-su becomes obsessed with finding her and confronting Ben. His investigation leads to a gripping and ambiguous climax, where Jong-su’s desperation culminates in a violent confrontation with Ben.

Theme

   The central theme of Burning is alienation and the frustration of being invisible or powerless in a world defined by social and economic disparity. Jong-su, representing the working class, becomes obsessed with Ben, who symbolizes the elite class and embodies wealth, privilege, and a detached sense of entitlement. The film also explores obsession and jealousy, as Jong-su's feelings for Hae-mi and his suspicion of Ben drive him to the brink of madness. Additionally, the film plays with the theme of ambiguity, leaving audiences questioning the truth behind Hae-mi’s disappearance and the meaning of Ben’s actions.

Character Analysis

   Jong-su (Yoo Ah-in): Jong-su is an isolated and disillusioned young man who works as a delivery driver while aspiring to be a writer. His passive nature contrasts with his growing obsession over Hae-mi’s disappearance and his suspicions about Ben. Jong-su represents the disempowered lower class, frustrated by his inability to change his circumstances. His internal struggle and his descent into obsession form the core of the film’s tension.

   Ben (Steven Yeun): Ben is wealthy, charismatic, and mysterious, embodying a sense of detachment from the world. His strange hobby of burning greenhouses symbolizes his casual disregard for the lives and struggles of others. Ben’s ambiguous nature is a source of suspense throughout the film, as it is never clear whether he is simply a bored elite or a truly sinister figure. His role highlights the film’s critique of class disparity and emotional detachment.

   Hae-mi (Jeon Jong-seo): Hae-mi is a free-spirited woman who yearns for meaning and excitement in her life. She acts as the catalyst for the relationship between Jong-su and Ben, and her mysterious disappearance becomes the central puzzle of the film. Hae-mi's character symbolizes Jong-su's unattainable desires and frustrations with his own life, as well as the vulnerability of individuals in a world where they can be easily overlooked or discarded.

Reception and Impact

   Burning received widespread critical acclaim for its thought-provoking narrative, atmospheric direction, and strong performances, particularly from Steven Yeun, who was praised for his portrayal of the enigmatic Ben. The film premiered at the 2018 Cannes Film Festival, where it competed for the Palme d'Or and earned the FIPRESCI International Critics’ Prize. It became South Korea’s entry for the Best International Feature Film category at the 91st Academy Awards, marking the first time a Korean film made it to the final shortlist.

   Burning was celebrated for its ambiguous storytelling, which left audiences and critics debating its meaning and conclusion. The film’s slow, deliberate pacing and its exploration of social and economic issues resonated with viewers, making it a significant work in Korean cinema. Its commentary on class disparity and emotional isolation, paired with its enigmatic plot, solidified Burning as one of the most intriguing and memorable films of its time.

Cick here for full movie link.