Green Chair

"Green Chair" is a 2022 South Korean drama film written and directed by Lee Joo-yun, which delves into a thought-provoking narrative focusing on themes of class, power dynamics, and the blurred lines between love and desire. The story follows a middle-aged housewife, played by Im Soo-jung, who harbors a deep sense of discontent in her life. She feels stifled by the monotony and societal expectations thrust upon her, particularly those of a housewife in South Korean society. Her life takes an unexpected turn when she embarks on an affair with a younger man, whom we later learn is a minor. The handsome young man, portrayed by actor Park Ji-hwan, has a carefree nature, embodying the innocence and recklessness of youth. As the housewife becomes increasingly drawn to him, their relationship becomes a source of both excitement and turmoil. However, the societal implications of their romance soon lead to devastating consequences. As news of the illicit affair spreads, the housewife finds herself at the center of a scandal, with ravenous tabloid journalists hounding her every move. The situation becomes further complicated when authorities become involved, placing her under threat of prosecution for her relationship with a minor. Despite her own desires and the intensity of their emotions for one another, the housewife feels compelled to distance herself from the young man once she realizes the gravity of her situation. However, when the young man reaches the age of legal consent, their reunion ignites a passionate and all-consuming romance. While it would seem that their love has won out, the film masterfully peels back the layers of their relationship, exposing the darker realities beneath their love story. Throughout the narrative, the film raises a range of poignant questions, including how societal expectations and class can shape our desires and choices. It also poses the unsettling query of whether the intensity of our passions and the allure of youthful beauty can overshadow moral concerns. As such, the film skillfully evades straightforward labels of "romantic" or "dramatic," preferring a more nuanced exploration of human nature. The camera work itself forms an integral component to the narrative's emotional impact. By incorporating soft colors, gentle lighting, and delicate composition, the cinematography masterfully crafts a dreamlike atmosphere that captures the all-consuming nature of love and desire. Conversely, shots featuring a sterile or overly perfectized aesthetic serve to underscore the emptiness and superficiality of societal expectations placed upon the housewife. Im Soo-jung gives a heart-wrenching portrayal of the housewife, whose inner turmoil is skillfully conveyed through her subtle expressions and mannerisms. While her on-screen presence imbues the role with a sense of empathy and relatability, it is Lee Joo-yun's thoughtful narrative that truly humanizes her plight. By presenting a protagonist who embodies universal yearnings yet is simultaneously shackled by her societal circumstances, "Green Chair" delivers a nuanced exploration of what it means to live a life that meets the expectations of others versus one that fulfills our true desires. Ultimately, "Green Chair" concludes by challenging viewers to reassess their understanding of societal norms and the roles that each of us play in upholding or dismantling these norms. As the film fades to its conclusion, the complexities of its protagonists' love story – like the titular green chair itself – serve as a poignant reminder of the fragile nature of human emotions and the delicate balance between passion, desire, and societal expectations.