“Every year you spend with your family is an achievement ”
The Hill of Secrets (비밀의 언덕) 2022
‘The Hill of Secrets’ is a coming-of-age drama released in 2022, directed with tender insight by Lee Ji-Eun. Her debut feature resonates with the thematic richness found in the works of acclaimed directors such as Yoon Ga-Eun, known for ‘The House of Us’ and ‘The World of Us’, along with Kim Bora’s evocative ‘House of the Hummingbird’. At its core, the narrative focuses on the experiences of a young girl as she navigates the complexities of school life, the nuances of pre-teen friendship, and the delicate dynamics within her family.
Set in the nostalgic milieu of 1996, the film introduces us to the ’emotionally sensitive’ and introspective Myeong-Eun, portrayed masterfully by Moon Seung-ah. As a 12-year-old grappling with the uncertainties of adolescence, Myeong-Eun is kind and considerate of others, but also critical and misguided of her own family. The story begins with her meticulously selecting a thoughtful gift for her teacher Ms. Kim, accompanied by a heartfelt letter asking for a private meeting. However, when Ms. Kim’s habitual tardiness rears its head again, she arrives late to school and fails to read the letter before starting parental background meetings with her students. It is now clear what Myeong-Eun was desperate to talk privately about.
Myeong-Eun’s home life becomes a source of profound embarrassment for her, as she views her family’s modest existence—running a fish stall at the local market—as a reflection of social inferiority. Overwhelmed by this perception, she feigns illness in a desperate attempt to avoid divulging her parents’ occupations when called upon by Ms Kim. Her struggle to reconcile her feelings emerges starkly as she views her father as a slacker and her mother as unrefined. When her initial escape plan unravels, Myeong-Eun fabricates a comforting narrative, claiming her father possesses a respectable job at a paper company whilst her mother embodies the archetype of a typical housewife. This elaborate facade grants her temporary relief, particularly in her efforts to bond with her classmates and ascend to the position of class president. Yet, a lingering uncertainty looms: can Myeong-Eun maintain this web of lies without the truth surfacing?
As the film progresses, it poignantly tackles the mental and emotional trials of growing up. Myeong-Eun’s struggle with her family’s socioeconomic status is emblematic of a universal challenge, highlighting her internal tussle between pride and shame. What sets ‘The Hill of Secrets’ apart from similar narratives is its avoidance of overt bullying; instead exploring Myeong-Eun’s inward battles, illuminating the complexity of her emotional journey.
Visually, the film is suffused with a nostalgic essence, as seen through its carefully curated wardrobe choices and evocative settings that transport viewers to a bygone era. One particularly stirring scene features an intimate exchange of notes between Myeong-Eun and Ms. Kim, underscoring the young girl’s struggle to articulate her feelings verbally while effectively communicating her turmoil through the written word. This nuanced moment encapsulates the theme of silent suffering and underscores the importance of emotional connection.
At its heart, The Hill of Secrets preaches self-acceptance and embracing one’s background. Myeong-Eun’s construction of an idealized version of her family starkly contrasts her reality, reflecting her innate desire to shield herself from judgment and disappointment. The film eloquently advocates for the expressive power of emotions and the courage needed to confront one’s honest truth.
This work embodies a growing trend among modern female Korean directors, who adeptly explore the emotional intricacies of childhood and the journey toward maturity. Much like her predecessors, Lee Ji-Eun’s ‘The Hill of Secrets’ captivates audiences with its thoughtful storytelling and the exceptional performance from Moon Seung-ah, whose portrayal serves as a poignant reminder of the delicate childhood mental state.