Minha Kim takes center stage in her first lead role following her breakthrough in the acclaimed series Pachinko, with her performance in A Girl with Closed Eyes marking an exciting new phase in her burgeoning career. The film, directed by Chun Sun-young, premiered at the prestigious Busan International Film Festival and promises audiences a thrilling narrative filled with intrigue and unexpected twists. However, despite the film’s strong performances, particularly from Kim and co-star Choi Hee-seo, it grapples with a convoluted plot that sometimes undermines its initial promise.
The film plunges viewers into the serene yet foreboding setting of Hongcheon, South Korea’s mountainous province, where Min-ju (played by Kim) is discovered at the crime scene of a renowned author, Jeong Sang-woo (portrayed by Lee Ki-woo). Caught red-handed with a gun in her hand, the narrative quickly unravels as Kim’s character proclaims her innocence, claiming instead that Sang-woo is connected to a cold case of kidnapping dating back two decades—one that inexplicably draws her back into the public eye as the victim, Lee In-seon.
This dramatic setup sparks interest, especially with the historical weight of the kidnapping case tethered to her own past and the subsequent unraveling of secrets between In-seon and her former schoolmate turned detective, Park Min-ju (Choi Hee-seo). The plot has a gripping premise that allows for deep explorations of character relationships and motivations, hinting at a rich narrative tapestry initially crafted by the director.
A Girl with Closed Eyes is drenched in cinematic allusions, drawing parallels with notable works that infuse the storyline with vibrancy and familiarity. From Bong Joon-ho’s provocative thriller Memories of Murder to Jung Byung-gil’s Confession of Murder, the film wears its influences brazenly, suggesting a conscious homage to past cinematic brilliance while also striving to carve its own identity. It cleverly touches upon themes of justice, morality, and the implications of societal perceptions, particularly in how they relate to identity and trauma.
With allusions to Stephen King’s Misery, the film also lays the groundwork for psychological exploration, challenging the idea of perception versus reality. This thematic layering enhances the narrative’s richness, but it is occasionally so entwined in its embrace of homage that it risks muddling its originality, thus straying into familiar territory that may distract discerning viewers.
As the plot thickens, the intricate web of deception and revelation begins to fray, particularly in the film’s latter half. The introduction of numerous red herrings, combined with a flurry of unexpected plot twists, disrupts the coherence established early on. While the first hour engages viewers with its suspenseful cat-and-mouse dynamic, it soon devolves into a series of logical missteps, resulting in a narrative that feels increasingly implausible and chaotic.
This descent undermines the earlier tension that Chun adeptly crafted through strong character dynamics and incisive dialogue. Although audiences might expect a resolution that ties intricate threads together, they are faced instead with disjointed plot points, which ultimately detracts from the film’s impact. Despite the flashes of brilliance, A Girl with Closed Eyes struggles to fully deliver on its initial promise.
Despite the film’s narrative shortcomings, the performances remain a significant highlight. Minha Kim channels a depth of emotion as In-seon, deftly balancing her character’s sinister undertones with moments of vulnerability. Her portrayal provides an impactful juxtaposition against Choi Hee-seo’s character, who embodies a mix of conflicted loyalty and skilled professionalism. The chemistry between the two actresses elevates the film, showcasing their ability to navigate complex emotions and dark themes effectively.
While A Girl with Closed Eyes grapples with its narrative structure and credibility, it offers strong performances, engrossing thematic explorations, and an atmospheric setting that retain the audience’s attention. It illustrates the challenges of weaving a compelling story amidst ambitious cinematic aspirations, echoing both the struggles and triumphs intrinsic to the art of filmmaking.
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