In Our Prime (이상한 나라의 수학자) 2022
‘In Our Prime’ (이상한 나라의 수학자) is a pleasant 2022 film featuring the remarkable talents of Choi Min-sik and directed by Park Dong-hun. In this touching narrative, Kim Dong-hwi delivers a noteworthy performance as Han Ji-woo, which earned him multiple Best New Actor awards.
Set against the backdrop of the prestigious Donghun Academy, Ji-woo grapples with a dual struggle: fitting in socially with his affluent classmates while contending with the academic pressures of a demanding environment. His financial disparities become evident, creating a gulf between him and his peers. When he unwittingly takes the fall for smuggling alcohol and snacks into the dorms at the insistence of his so-called friends, he faces a harsh penalty—a month-long ban from the dorms. Determined to shield his mother from disappointment, he seeks a place to stay on campus rather than confessing the truth. This search leads him to an unexpected encounter with Choi’s character, an enigmatic figure known among students as the “Commie Janitor.” As the two develop a deepening bond, Ji-woo is astounded by the janitor’s extraordinary mathematical prowess, which becomes an avenue of hope for navigating his academic struggles.
Both characters are shrouded in secrets, particularly the janitor, whose astonishing mathematical background unfolds gradually, captivating Ji-woo. The film follows a simple storyline, which creates a cosy viewing experience.
Mathematics serves as the outward interest, and the film creatively incorporates overlays of mathematical equations across the screen, transforming the subject from mere abstract concepts to a dynamic visual experience. These elements aim to enliven the often daunting images of lengthy equations typically seen on a classroom whiteboard. Overall, the screenplay showcases a solid foundation with the mathematical language kept to a minimum.
The main characters, each embodying an outsider’s viewpoint, navigate a world shaped by privilege and societal expectations. Choi’s character, having relocated from North to South Korea, faces prejudice and isolation compounded by his hidden academic abilities, which evoke ignorance from his more privileged peers. In parallel, Ji-woo’s background as a product of a single-parent household and his reliance on a welfare scholarship further alienate him from his classmates who have access to resources he can only dream of.
Alongside Jo Yun-seo, who portrays Park Bo-ram, these central characters are painted with depth and complexity, compelling audiences to root for their triumphs against adversity. However, despite the film’s warm and inviting tone, it feels somewhat lacklustre. It conveys a sense of safety but falls short of offering profound insights, rendering it a familiar cinematic experience.
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