My Name Is Loh Kiwan

A film about illegal immigration, seeking refuge, and the right to live, 'My Name is Loh Kiwan' aims at showing us the grim reality of immigration and life as a nomad. Loh Kiwan, played by Song Joong-ki, is a young North Korean defector who is forced to enter Belgium in a desperate attempt to survive. Enduring harsh conditions as the Belgian government determines his fate, he meets Marie, a drug addict seeking refuge from her troubled reality. Their survival amid the odds serves as the basic premise of the film.

The film masterfully juxtaposes the main plotline with a secondary narrative involving Marie's entanglement with nefarious elements. While this subplot adds depth to her character, it occasionally falters in its execution, with certain aspects feeling less compelling than others. While grappling with technical shortcomings, the film's central message of hope and resilience shines through, leaving viewers with a profound sense of reflection and empathy for the struggles of refugees. My Name is Loh Kiwan stands as a testament to the power of love to transcend barriers and illuminate the darkest corners of the human experience.

My Rating : 7.5/10.

This came out of nowhere and genuinely became one of the best movies I've ever seen. I didn't expect it to be this good. By the end of the movie I was almost crying. The very first thing I noticed that got me hooked right from the begining was how easy it is to empathize with and root for the main character. You feel the harrowing journey he's going through, and his incredible resilience. The writing and character arcs are brilliant. There are things that happen between characters that are built up in such a way where you start to fall in love with them as it's happening. Everything feels earned and the romance is incredibly strong by the time it gets there. These actors have AMAZING chemistry and are perfect in their roles. Lots of great performances and I even liked the villainous French guy who had a very strong and commanding presence on screen. I'd love to see more of these actors!

All the potential is there for a great story to be told. A real story, inspired in real people, and a cruel reality (trust me, I am Belgian and have worked with refugees). Two main actors that at least know how to act, and even some side roles can stand the heat. Instead, Netflix decided to shoot this one in a country faked as Belgium (hard to watch), with second rate Western actors, second rate set dressing, horrible music and worst of all the worst script and dialogues ever.

I truely hope that somehow the Korean spoken by the main character is truly resembling the North Korean speach. Shame on Netflix, far below mediocre.

I don't get the hate it gets. Sure people thought it would focus on more in the part how did he get out of North Korea, but from the trailer and the info we got I knew it would focus more on how he lives in Belgium. I think it was interesting story and the acting was great. Only the drug parts kinda threw me off but it was only small parts. I have been waiting for a realistic, not over dramatic and romantic movie and I think this was it. Normally I don't even watch movies but this was the only exception. All together I think it was touching story and didn't have those awkward over acting scenes so it gets 8/10.

My name is Loh. Kiwan is an emotional rollercoaster that promises to take you on a thrill-filled journey of Loh Kiwan and Marie. Movie rotates smoothly from sadness to action, romance, Melodrama and beyond realism. The plot is well-paced, with the main characters developing progressively. Even though the changing timeline, it is never confusing and keeps the you (Watchers) entertained. Every one character's actions are legitimate and dependable. The Loh Kiwan movie carries a wide range of all genres that can be really liked by anyone (watchers). The cast of each characters truly symbolize their specific roles, delivering how the characters feel to life. Loh Kiwan triggers an indication on other cinematic brilliant works of the Korean film industry.

--> Outstanding Soundtrack, top quality Cinematography (Loh Kiwan Close-up shots, Belgium long shots 👌🏻) Visually amazing; the film displays beautiful atmospheres that reflect each character's existential experience.

--> Song Joong-ki's physical appearance conversion, and emotionally charged makeover are certainly the film's standout paths. His physical appearance is the centerpiece that allows ourselves to emotionally. Engage with the story in a deeper way. He again shown the versatility of his acting with this movie.

--> Ki-wan's transformation from at risk to strength is prominent, while Marie's struggles with addictions and issues with her family throw depth to her character. Their on-screen chemistry surpasses geographical. Boundaries, and narrates overwhelming feeling of mutual suffering and redemption that connects with watchers.

Strong Points

• Acting.

• Stunning Cinematography.

• Soundtrack.

• Direction and Story telling.

• Best adaptation, skillful writing.

• Perfect balance melodrama and realism of story.

DIRECTION - WRITTING

Director Kim Hee-jin utilised cast perfectly within the small look big story, i really appreciate her work of Loh Kiwan. Although it's an adaptation the movie writer brilliantly delivered the script with heart touching lines. Loh Kiwan standout with unique mix of traditional story telling with amazing scenes that make you enjoy and emotional feel in every moment. Magnificent performances by supporting characters.

Finally:- South Korean Film makers never fail to deliver a movie from Intense battles to emotional tales, and western entertainment media appreciate Korean Film Makers as " South Korea is a goldmine of original ideas and storytelling talents ". And we can saw it from Loh Kiwan.

Definitely one of the most memorable films I've seen. This movie may inspire, sometimes horrify, or send you into an existential crisis, but it will make you think about something new by the time you finish it. Despite its dark underlying themes, the film ultimately delivers an appealing message of hope and endurance, leaving viewers with a sense of satisfaction and emotional ride.