Director Yeon Sang-ho predicts a fresh shock in theaters this September with his ultra-low-budget film ‘Face’! | Movie Review
๐ฅ “Is this really possible with 200 million won?” The shocking truth about family in Yeon Sang-ho’s ‘Face’
๐ Table of Contents
- Why is everyone paying attention to ‘Face’?
- The mystery tracker of a visually impaired father and his rebellious son
- Park Jung-minโKwon Hae-hyo, the story behind their no-guarantee participation
- Three characteristics of Yeon Sang-ho’s films
- Scenes made for the price of 200 cups of coffee
- Q&A: Resolving 5 curiosities
๐ฌ “Is this really a 200 million won movie?” A new work that shakes up cinemas
Everyone! The film I am introducing today is not just an ordinary work. Made for the price of 200 cups of coffee (200 million won), director Yeon Sang-ho’s new film ‘Face’ is coming on September 11! ๐
If you love graphic novels, you may already know the original ‘Family Without a Face’. But the film offers a completely different dimension of experience.
๐จโ๐ฆฏ The mystery tracker of a visually impaired father and his rebellious son
The protagonist, Lim Young-kyu (played by Kwon Hae-hyo), is a master in traditional woodworking but is ironically a visually impaired person who cannot see the truths right in front of him. His son, Dong-hwan (played by Shin Hyun-bin), begins to unravel the questions regarding his mother’s death that he has buried deep inside.
Here comes the twist! ๐ As the mysterious character ‘Mr. Kim,’ played by Park Jung-min, enters the scene, the story takes a completely different turn. (I feel like if I say more, it will be a spoiler haha)
If you enjoyed Yeon Sang-ho’s previous work ‘Parasite’, you’ll feel the sharp dissection of social class and family relationships in this piece as well.
๐ Star actors unite without guarantees? Shocking casting stories
I was really surprised when I heard this news. Actor Park Jung-min decided to participate without a guarantee saying, “Working with director Yeon is important.” ๐ฒ
- Kwon Hae-hyo: Lived with his eyes covered for three months to portray a visually impaired character
- Shin Hyun-bin: Utilized his real-life conflicts with his father to the fullest
- Park Jung-min: An episode where he treated the staff to lunch on set
It’s hard to believe that the production team consists of only 20 people. The bond created between the actors and the staff is palpable throughout the film.
๐ฅ Three characteristics of Yeon Sang-ho’s films (This piece is no exception)
- Meaningful decor – Even a single painting in the protagonistโs home has a story behind it
- Sound design – Effectively conveys the viewpoint of the visually impaired protagonist
- Twists upon twists – What is shown in the trailer is less than 10% of the truth
In particular, this work incorporates 3D sound technology, offering a unique experience that can only be felt in theaters!
โ Scenes made for the price of 200 cups of coffee (On-site behind-the-scenes)
It’s unbelievable that the production cost is 200 million won… How was it possible? According to a journalist who visited the site:
“They utilized the actors’ personal clothes for costumes, remodeled an abandoned factory for sets, and the meals were prepared daily by rotating members of the production team.”
The scene in the protagonist’s workshop left a strong impression. It turns out they borrowed an acquaintance’s workshop for free! Many praise this creative production method for enhancing the film’s realism!
โ Q&A: 5 curiosities about ‘Face’
Q1. How does it compare to Yeon Sang-ho’s previous works?
A. It’s a combination of the social messages from ‘Parasite’ and the emotional storytelling of ‘Okja’!
Q2. What is the runtime?
A. It is 108 minutes, compact and maintains tension throughout!
Q3. Why is it rated for ages 15 and above?
A. Not due to violent scenes, but because of psychological tension (great for family viewing).
Q4. Are there significant differences from the graphic novel?
A. The basic setting is similar, but the movie adds new twist elements!
Q5. What is the best point to focus on?
A. Pay attention to the sound design following the protagonist’s perspective!
๐ฏ Conclusion: Why should you watch ‘Face’ on September 11?
Everyone, in times like these, is there another movie that takes such a brave challenge? ๐ฅบ
Director Yeon Sang-ho is once again expanding the possibilities of Korean cinema with this film. I highly recommend experiencing this work that encapsulates the meaning of family, the weight of truth, and the spirit of craftsmanship in theaters!
PS. If you’ve seen the movie, share your thoughts in my community~ What twist shocked you the most? ๐
