Da-eum So-hee

July Jung's "Next Sohee" (2022) delivers a profoundly impactful and emotionally resonant social drama, immersing viewers in the tragic realities of corporate exploitation and systemic indifference. The film excels in its unflinching portrayal of a young woman's struggle, building a narrative that is both meticulously detailed and deeply heartbreaking. Kim Si-eun's performance as Sohee is raw and captivating, while Bae Doona anchors the second half with a powerful, empathetic portrayal of a detective seeking justice. Its strength lies in its courageous exploration of a critical societal issue, feeling authentic and contributing significantly to a vital conversation. Instead of a mere procedural, it offers a searing, unforgettable cinematic experience that demands attention and empathy.

Is it worth watching? Absolutely. "Next Sohee" is a must-watch for those who appreciate powerful, thought-provoking cinema that tackles important social issues with honesty and emotional depth. It's a truly memorable and essential film.

This movie is about the exploitation of minors (high school students) and how the whole liberal system crushes individuals and how a toxic workplace can ruin many lives. This movie Is about the dark side of the Korean labour market, and touches on many important subjects.

Bae Doona's performance Is absolutely breathtaking, as always. She's one of the best actresses of this generation.

Being close to burn-out myself, I couldn't hold back my tears during this move. It brought back many memories and made me rethink my life. Not many movies can have that effect ... It's a masterpiece. You should watch it m.

Writer/Director July Jung was in attendance to present her film after over 20 hours flights to Montreal, Canada. She was humble and pleasantly surprised to receive the Best Director Cheval Noir Award in front of a packed Audience for the FantAsia Film Festival closing film.

NEXT SOHEE (Da-eum-so-hee) stars international star Doona Bae in probably her best performance as a determined detective and relative newcomer on the big screen Si-Eun Kim as a distraught dance-dreaming, hard-hitting high school student stuck in an inhumane system. Si-Eun Kim also shines in her difficult portrayal and we can imagine Jung's direction was crucial for both.

July Jung uses a true story to illustrate flaws in the system, in people, culture and mentality that are specific to South Korea, yet resonate with international audiences. She states that the purpose of the film is not necessarily to create reform, yet to start awareness and an awaking process of what I would call warped societal and personal values.

Is high performance more praiseworthy than peace or purpose? Where is the qualitative in the mostly quantitative economy and politics? Where do we have agency instead of acceptance, avoidance, anger and despair?

The movie is envisioned in two distinct parts with the second one being much better in my view, yet exploring aspects of the first one in new light. All 134 minutes are necessary in the end to tell the story of a person, of a generation, of a system and society in all its universality.

The final shot is primed with primal emotion, as well as intellectual realisation. Analysis concludes a very well constructed and executed narrative. This is a high achievement from South Korea cinema once again.

I feel privileged to have witnessed this hard yet crucial artistic creation in fine company.

FANTASIA FILM FESTIVAL 2022 SOUTH KOREA KOREAN W/ ENG SUB 134 MIN DIR.: JULY JUNG.

"Next Sohee" is a poignant and socially conscious film that quietly builds emotional weight as it unfolds. It explores harsh realities faced by young people entering the workforce, and the pressure and neglect that can lead to devastating consequences.

The film is split into two parts, and while the first half focuses on the titular character and her struggles, the second half shifts perspective in a way that feels both jarring and effective. This narrative structure adds depth, even if it may not resonate equally with everyone.

Visually, the movie is restrained but purposeful, and the performances-especially by Kim Si-eun as Sohee-are subtle yet impactful. There's a lingering sadness throughout the film that stays with you, though at times the pacing can feel a bit slow or stretched.

"Next Sohee" doesn't offer easy resolutions, but it handles its themes with sensitivity and care. It's a solid film that's not always easy to watch, but certainly worth it.

"Next So-Hee" is a haunting portrayal of systemic failure and individual despair, illustrating a world where oppressive forces render people powerless and voices are stifled. The film delves into the tragic life of So-Hee, a young girl who becomes emblematic of a broader societal malaise where everyone seems to compromise and retreat into resignation. It paints a somber picture of a society where each institution-schools, educational authorities, labor departments, employers, police, and families-appears to operate with impunity, creating a labyrinth of excuses that ultimately dismiss the gravity of So-Hee's plight.