My Idol

"My Idol" is a poignant coming-of-age drama that delves into the life of Lee Woo Sang, a young high school student struggling to find his place in the world after a series of devastating blows. The film opens with Woo Sang attending his father's funeral, surrounded by his family and friends. The passing of his father has left a gaping void in Woo Sang's life, a void he can't quite fill. As Woo Sang navigates his grief, he receives news that his school's track team has disbanded, forcing him to confront a harsh reality. For Woo Sang, being part of the track team was not just about racing and competing; it was about belonging, about finding a sense of purpose and identity. Without the team, Woo Sang is left feeling lost and disconnected from the world around him. Determined to hold on to his identity, Woo Sang decides to continue running, but it's not the same. He's no longer part of a team, no longer surrounded by his friends and teammates. Woo Sang's runs are now solitary and laborious, punctuated by unsteady breaths and a growing sense of despair. He's forced to face the reality of his situation, and it's a harsh one. It's during one of these solo runs that Woo Sang is approached by Sung Jae Min, a former idol who has now retired from the entertainment industry. Jae Min, now in his mid-30s, is a complex character with a troubled past. Despite his rough exterior, there's a deep sense of vulnerability and empathy within him. Jae Min's presence in the film serves as a catalyst for Woo Sang's growth, a symbol of hope and redemption in a world that seems to have abandoned him. As Woo Sang and Jae Min interact, we see glimpses of their complex relationships. They're not quite friends, nor are they acquaintances; they're something in between. Jae Min is drawn to Woo Sang's resilience, his ability to keep running despite the setbacks. Woo Sang, in turn, is captivated by Jae Min's rough-around-the-edges charm and his infectious sense of humor. Throughout the film, Jae Min becomes a mentor of sorts to Woo Sang, offering guidance and support as Woo Sang navigates his tumultuous life. He shares his own story, one of success and failure, of fame and isolation. Jae Min's narrative serves as a cautionary tale, a reminder that even the most successful among us can fall prey to the pressures of societal expectations. As Woo Sang and Jae Min grow closer, they begin to form a strong bond. Jae Min introduces Woo Sang to the world of entertainment, showing him the backstage side of the idols Woo Sang had once idolized. Woo Sang, in turn, provides Jae Min with a sense of purpose, reminding him of the reasons why he started his journey in the first place. Their relationship is complicated, marked by moments of tenderness and tension. There's a palpable sense of trust between them, a trust built on shared experiences and a deep understanding of each other's struggles. As they navigate their complex emotions, Woo Sang and Jae Min both come to realize that there's more to life than fame, fortune, and success. They're searching for a deeper connection, one that goes beyond the superficial. One of the film's standout themes is the concept of "idolization." Woo Sang's initial obsession with Jae Min serves as a metaphor for the way we often idolize celebrities, putting them on pedestals and expecting them to be flawless. But as the film progresses, we see that even the most seemingly perfect idols have their own flaws and vulnerabilities. Jae Min, in particular, is a complex character who has struggled with addiction, family dynamics, and the pressure to maintain a perfect image. Through their story, the film poses thought-provoking questions about identity, community, and belonging. What does it mean to be a part of something bigger than ourselves? How do we find our true purpose in a world that's increasingly disconnected? As Woo Sang and Jae Min struggle to answer these questions, they both come to realize that true identity lies not in external validation but in our relationships with others. Ultimately, "My Idol" is a film about the transformative power of human connection. It's a tale of friendship, mentorship, and the redemptive power of love. As Woo Sang and Jae Min navigate their complicated relationships, they both discover that true strength lies not in individual achievement but in the relationships we build with others.