The Poet and the Boy is a 2017 South Korean drama film that tells the story of a struggling poet who finds himself in a complicated relationship with a young man. The film features Yang Ik-joon as the main protagonist, a 40-year-old poet named Lee Jong-su. He is an aspiring writer who has been struggling to find inspiration for his work. Lee is married and has a daughter, but his married life is unhappy, with his wife constantly nagging him about his failures.
One day, while visiting a bakery, Lee meets a young boy named Seo Ji-woo, played by Ga-ram Jung. Seo is a delicate and innocent person who works at the bakery. Lee is attracted to his beauty and gentleness and begins to spend time with him. As their relationship develops, they find solace in each other's company, and Lee begins to find inspiration for his poetry once again.
The film explores the emotional complexity of their relationship as they come from different worlds and have different motivations. Lee is struggling to find something meaningful in his life while Seo is trying to escape his difficult past. Lee is drawn to Seo's purity and youth, while Seo sees Lee as a mentor who can help him navigate his difficult life.
Throughout the film, the two men's relationship is tested as they both struggle with their feelings and motivations. Lee's marriage is in trouble, and he feels alive again for the first time in a long time through his relationship with Seo. On the other hand, Seo is being pursued by a local gangster who wants him to return to the life he left behind.
The movie is beautifully shot, emphasizing the beauty of the South Korean countryside in the autumn season. The cinematography is exquisite, capturing the rich colors and textures of the landscape. The film also has a powerful score that adds depth and emotion to the story.
The acting in the film is superb. Yang Ik-joon gives a stunning performance as Lee, portraying the character's complicated emotions with nuance and depth. He is both vulnerable and strong, conveying the turmoil inside his character without being over the top. Hye-jin Jeon plays Lee's wife Yeon-hee, bringing sensitivity and complexity to the role. Ga-ram Jung shines as Seo, delivering a delicate and nuanced performance.
Overall, The Poet and the Boy is a powerful and moving film that explores the complexities of love and relationships. It touches on themes of self-discovery, creativity, and passion, while highlighting the beauty and simplicity of ordinary life. The film's strong performances, stunning visuals and powerful score make it a must-watch for anyone who loves powerful and moving cinema.
In conclusion, if you enjoy drama films that explore themes of love, passion, and self-discovery, then The Poet and the Boy is a perfect choice for you. It is a beautiful film that will leave you feeling inspired and moved.
The Poet and the Boy is a 2017 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 49 minutes.
It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.3.
