Chunhyang
Director: Im Kwon-Taek
Year Released: 2000
Rating: 3.0
A simple fable about young love (noble boy meets prostitute daughter, falls for her) told in a unique style, with the narration of the tale sung while the story unfolds, letting you know about the inner thoughts of the characters and community. The device takes some getting used to, but adds to the charm of the tale - feminists may take issue with the declaration of the young man that "the world's precious beauties are destined to have an owner" and the fact that the courtesan (of a lower class) must be subjected to punishment before she can become reunited with her upper-class husband, but it could also be viewed from an opposing angle, about a woman strong enough to stand up to her oppressors out of love and loyalty. Above all, class is the key issue here, as the young man takes his exams, wins favor with the King and ensures that lower class individuals are treated fairly by upper class individuals.
