Na-neun Heang-bok-hab-ni-da

Suffering. Depression. Love. Paradox.

My Binnie played Man-soo, a patient in a mental institution. His illness was brought by circumstances and I guess genetics. Script was just ok but was compensated with Bin's acting. It made me shed tears as he showed the pain and love for his mum and brother. This film is so deep and truly challenging. A story of a wounded soul.

You have to know what you're getting into before starting this film. Throw out any notions that this is going to be a "happy" movie or else you will be sorely disappointed. No romance or comedy here! This is a slow burner but worth a watch for Hyun Bin's excellent performance.

If you're seeking out this movie in 2020, you're probably curious about Hyun Bin's other works after having watched Crash Landing On You or Memories of the Alhambra on Netflix. HB's filmography includes many lead roles where he plays the handsome rich guy but his role as Man-soo in I am Happy is anything but.

In this film, you get a scraggly HB who suddenly develops megalomania after having to constantly deal with his mother who has dementia and his abusive older brother addicted to gambling. It is unlike any other role HB has done and it allows him to really shine as an actor. Man-soo is not an easy character to play but HB delivers a stellar performance that, if you have a heart, will surely evoke feelings of empathy and pity.

The way the film is shot can be a little confusing with scenes jumping between the past and present. There is no real action and the movie is pretty dark, but if you have the patience, you will be treated to a great performance by a great actor. To think that this movie is only three years after Hyun Bin's breakout role in My Lovely Sam Soon is telling of his skill.

This is a deeply compelling performance by Hyun Bin and supported by well cast and well drawn others. It was a brave part to take for a young actor in a profession that puts a premium on attractiveness. Being prepared to show yourself raw, dishevelled and beaten down shows his authenticity as an actor. Though slow moving it is never boring. This is an honest portrayal of health and poverty and of the limits of human tolerance of grief, abuse and despair. Well done Hyun Bin, we'll done everyone. Such a shame it wasn't better received. It deserved accolades not dismissal.