Burning

Starring: Ah-In Yoo, Steven Yeun, Jong-seo Jeon

Director: Chang-dong Lee

Based on the short story "Barn Burning" by Haruki Murakami

While working his job, Lee Jong-su (Ah-In Yoo) bumps into Haemi (Jong-seo Jeon) who he hasn't seen since he was young, despite growing up in the same small town. Their rekindled relationship quickly blossoms into something romantic, despite her having to leave for Kenya for a month. Before she goes, she asks Jongsu to look after her cat, which he happily does even though he never actually sees the cat. Things get strange once she returns, as she has brought the mysterious Ben (Steven Yeun) back with her. Ben is friendly and rich. The nature of his relationship with Haemi is unknown. What quickly becomes clear is that Ben is harboring a dark secret.

Hitchcock would have enjoyed this slow burn of a film. Not knowing what the film is about is key, as there is a shift in tone about halfway through the film that helps justify the 2 hour and 28 minute run time. There are plenty of red herrings and mystery not only surrounding Ben, but also Haemi. She claims that when she was younger she fell into a well and was rescued by Jongsu, but he doesn't remember it happening and there isn't any evidence that there was ever a well in town.

The script is wise to keep the perspective in Jongsu's viewpoint, especially once Ben enters the picture. Steven Yeun, who continues to impress, post The Walking Dead, is very effective in the role. Not only speaking entirely in Korean, but able to pull off the condescending friendliness of the character that adds to the mystery surrounding him. I hope he tackles more roles like this in the future.

There are no concrete answers in the film, which may frustrate people. I have my theory, but I could definitely use another viewing to try to firm up my explanation. This is definitely a film that rewards patient viewers.

A-