The landscape of international cinema has invited a poignant narrative that promises to both captivate and evoke deep emotions as the latest Korean film “My Name is Loh Kiwan” reaches audiences worldwide. The storyline follows the touching love story between a North Korean defector and a professional shooter, brought to life by a stellar cast and an accomplished director.
In the heart of the narrative is Loh Kiwan, portrayed by the multifaceted Korean actor Song Joong Ki. His character, a defector from North Hamgyong Province, North Korea, finds himself in Belgium. This new world is daunting and alien, with a language he does not speak and customs he does not understand. Despite being stripped of his possessions and comforts, Loh Kiwan clings to a fiery will to forge a new life in this strange land. His quest for sanctuary leads him to apply for refugee status, hoping to find a semblance of stability and safety.
However, it is during this time of vulnerability that he crosses paths with Mari, enacted by Choi Sung Eun, a professional shooter who has fallen into despair, losing her will to carry on amidst her own tribulations. From a jarring first encounter, an unexpected bond begins to form between these two disparate souls. In each other, they discover not just companionship, but a rare kind of love that blooms in the desolate corners of their shared hopelessness.
The recently unveiled official poster of the movie eloquently captures the essence of Loh Kiwan and Mari’s journey. The image of the protagonists looking in opposite directions against the backdrop of an unfamiliar European landscape underscores the film’s central theme. Accompanied by the poignant phrases “Unfamiliar land, daunting life,” and “Do we deserve happiness?” it hints at a narrative rife with challenges and existential ponderings, sure to stir the minds and hearts of viewers and make them reflect on the nature of happiness, fate, and companionship.
Song Joong Ki’s turn as Loh Kiwan is yet another testament to his chameleonic acting prowess. Known for his memorable roles in productions such as “Vincenzo,” Song has always been vocal about his unending quest for rich and diverse characters to portray. His commitment to his craft was palpable when he expressed at the Cannes premiere of his previously acclaimed film “Hopeless,” that his journey as an artist is ongoing—a sentiment that continues to endear him to his fans and admirers in the film industry.
The film’s vision is helmed by Director Kim Hee-jin, whose previous works include notable titles like “The Negotiation” and “The Beauty Inside.” With a clear artistic intent, Kim Hee-jin divulged her aspiration for the film: to lay bare the reality that life is often laden with pain, yet among that pain, there exist pockets of tenderness and reasons to keep on going. It is her hope that the nuances and layers of Loh Kiwan’s experiences, as well as those of Mari, will resonate with the audience, facilitating a deep connection and understanding.
“My Name is Loh Kiwan” sets a precedent for Korean cinema as it showcases the complexities of human relationships and the persistent quest for happiness in the throes of adversity. The film is eagerly slated for premiere on March 1st on the global streaming platform Netflix, ready to welcome viewers into a world that reminds us of our shared humanity and the power of love and perseverance.
