“How can you being yourself, be your weakness? ”
Love in the Big City (대도시의 사랑법) 2024
‘Love in the Big City’ (대도시의 사랑법) was an eagerly anticipated film released in late 2024, directed by E.oni (Lee Eon-hee), who graduated from the Korea National University of Arts in 1995 as part of its pioneering first class. Lee started in a more supporting role, receiving screenwriting credits for the influential film ‘Take Care of My Cat,’ hailed for shaping contemporary female-driven narratives in Korean cinema. This new film stars the acclaimed Kim Go-eun, whose significant star power has earned her top billing, alongside the talented Noh Sang-hyun.
The narrative of ‘Love in the Big City’ draws inspiration from the first section of Park Sang-young’s bestselling novel of the same name. It weaves a poignant tale centred on the deepening friendship between two central characters: Heung-soo (played by Noh) and Jae-hee (portrayed by Kim). The plot unfolds over several years as both characters navigate the tumultuous waters of love and self-discovery. Their initial encounter occurs at university, where they are both studying French—Heung-soo, captivated by the works of writer Albert Camus, and Jae-hee, a free-spirited soul who spent four years living in Paris.
Jae-hee’s vivacious personality attracts the attention of most male students, but it is their male French professor who catches Heung-soo’s eye. When Jae-hee sees them together on a night out, Heung-soo spirals into panic, fearing exposure and worrying that Jae-hee will reveal his secret. However, showcasing her loyalty, Jae-hee chooses to protect him from the threat of disclosure, igniting a profound friendship that becomes foundational in their lives. As their bond deepens, they become anchors for each other, navigating heartbreak and personal growth while facing societal acceptance challenges.
Unlike the original novel, which primarily centres on Park Young (Heung-soo’s role), the film gives equal narrative weight to Heung-soo and Jae-hee, incorporating Heung-soo’s perspective as a narrator. The film beautifully captures the essence of their connection, stemming from their shared passion for vibrant nightlife and their status as societal outsiders. The tight-knit bond they develop resembles that of siblings, defying the judgment of those around them and adding layers of emotional depth to their story, highlighted by moments of heartfelt tears.
Set against a contemporary backdrop, the film employs various modern filmmaking techniques to enhance its storytelling. Text messages flicker across the screen, adding an authentic touch to the narrative, while the frequent use of split screens portrays the simultaneous lives of Heung-soo and Jae-hee. A particularly striking moment occurs when the music abruptly halts, mirroring the shock experienced by a character upon receiving deeply unsettling news from someone close.
At its core, ‘Love in the Big City’ explores the theme of being an outsider—a relevant issue in a society that often struggles to embrace those who differ from the norm. While the novel delves deeply into the LGBTQ+ experience, especially from Jae-hee’s perspective, the film broadens its focus to present a more general commentary on the outsider experience and coming to terms with one’s identity. Nevertheless, it does not shy away from Heung-soo’s struggles, particularly highlighting the complex dynamics of his relationship with his mother after she discovers his sexual orientation.
This modern cinematic exploration highlights significant issues surrounding acceptance and sexual freedom, especially in a country that remains largely conservative in its discourse. While the film features familiar tropes, especially towards its conclusion, its emphasis on the profound friendship between its two leads sets it apart from typical romantic narratives. The writing also feels modern and accurate to the youth culture, with many memorable lines. Although it may have sidestepped some themes from the novel in pursuit of wider appeal—which feels slightly at odds with the film’s core message—both Kim Go-eun and Noh Sang-hyun deliver commendable performances, rendering ‘Love in the Big City’ an enjoyable and important viewing.
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