Minari is a 2020 drama revolving around a Korean-American family that relocates from California to rural Arkansas in order to pursue the American dream.
Have you ever felt a wide range of emotions after watching what you consider to be a beautiful film? Guaranteed you will feel that way with Minari, which has finally been given a wide theatrical release this year. Written and directed by the incredibly talented filmmaker Lee Isaac Chung, he has made a phenomenal piece of cinema that will be sure to resonate with everybody on a deeply personal level. Once again, it’s another masterpiece from A24. It’s not only a fantastic portrayal of a Korean-American family during the 1980s, it’s also a marvelous story about the American dream.
Minari features a wonderful cast of actors like Steven Yeun, Yeri Han, Alan Kim, Noel Kate Cho and Yuh-Jung Youn, and they all bring some terrific performances. It focuses on the Yi family, a Korean-American family who relocates from California to rural Arkansas in order to pursue the American dream. They are trying to adjust to living in their new home, and it’s not an easy life whatsoever. While the premise does sound a little simple, don’t let that fool you. It’s a very compelling and sentimental drama that touches on the themes of struggle, hope, dilemma and hard work. The challenges that they face together are important elements that everyone will be able to connect to in some way.
As mentioned before, the entire cast is outstanding. The director makes sure to give this family lots of depth, especially when it comes to character development. You really do feel the special bond that they have with one another, each having their time to shine, while also adding something crucial to the overall narrative. This is easily one of the best roles Yeun has ever portrayed in his career. Burning has shown us that he’s one of the best actors working in the industry right now, and Minari wonderfully showcases his talent and charisma from start to finish. His character’s view of Arkansas as the land of opportunity is really fascinating, while he’s also busy caring for the responsibility of his loved ones.
While watching Minari, you can tell it’s quite a personal movie for Chung. His screenplay is filled with sincerity and honesty, which makes you want to praise him for wanting to depict this story in a meaningful, profound and purposeful way. The Korean culture obviously means a lot to the director, and it’s a fundamental aspect that he wishes to authentically present on screen. Even if the family is Korean-American, the director himself has said that it’s still an American story anyone can relate to. Both the cinematography and musical score contribute significantly to the stunning setting of the film. You’re invested throughout, because you’re interested to know more about these characters’ lives in their new home.
Minari is a sensational and tender drama everyone should certainly check out. At this point, Chung will be recognized as one of the most impressive filmmakers currently working in the business. With a remarkable amount of heart and emotion, the entire cast and crew have worked really hard to make this one of the most memorable films ever made.