SPOILERS DOWN THE PATH; THE DISCUSSION BELOW WILL NOT BE COMPREHENSIVE WITHOUT IT.
TREAD CAREFULLY. YOU'VE BEEN WARNED.
THIS MOTION PICTURE IS OFFICIALLY AN AFFILIATE OF THE FILMMAKING PARAGONS.
Burning is a psychological mystery drama written and directed by master Lee Chang-dong! It tells the story of a young, aspiring novelist named Lee Jong-su (Yoo Ah-in) who meets his former classmate Hae-mi (Jeon Jong-seo) in a street mall fair. Their relationship blossoms as we slowly come to know she has interest on the protagonist since childhood, to a point where she remembers his remark on her appearance which led her to perform facial plastic surgery. Their first sex scene successfully transfers the awkwardness — for both the situation and how the main character must be feeling at the time.
Enters a foreign character in the name of Ben (Steven Yeun) between these two. He's exceptionally charming and delicately soft spoken. He is young and rich, or as the protagonist describes: "Gatsby in Seoul". He begins spending a lot of time with Hae-mi. On the surface, everything seems okay, but there's certainly something off. And Burning desires to find out what it is!
While the plot may be simple as it narrates a quite straightforward story, it's the director's filmmaking flare that grips you by your throat for the entire two-and-a-half-hour duration! First of all, the world and personas feel absolutely real! The dwellings, environment, vehicles — all look truly lived in, be it cluttered and confined or posh and wealthy! No one could ever forget the serene countryside sunset as the three main characters enjoy their view weed! With natural sound design and minimal score under the guidance of pure visual storytelling, we follow the protagonist everywhere, including his private moments. We have no clue where the plot's headed most of the time, but the surrounding atmosphere is extremely enigmatic and arresting that you don't think about the destination at all! The slow burn effect is strong, patient and full of vigor! Hong Kyung-pyo's camerawork is a major booster for the director's vision!
All three principal characters are well realized with distinct personalities of their own! 'Burning greenhouse' metaphor, Lee tracking Ben wherever he goes to finding Hae-mi's watch and cat in the latter's possession before the eventual murder that has to be done are riveting to the core!