I Can Speak

I Can Speak, directed by Kim Hyeon-tae and released in 2017, tells the story of Hwang Woo-jin (played by Lee Jeong-jae), a 39-year-old man who works as a civil servant. Woo-jin's primary job involves recording citizens' phone calls made to the local government, and his role in this process often leaves him disenchanted, feeling isolated from the world around him. His solitary existence is further complicated by his struggle to understand his own past and his relationships with the people in his life. The film's narrative becomes a poignant and uplifting exploration of Woo-jin's journey as he forms an unlikely friendship with an 80-year-old woman, Sung Deok-mi (played by Kim Hae-gon). Sung Deok-mi is a strong-willed, sharp-tongued woman who resides in a traditional Korean hanok, her home for the past 60 years. Deok-mi's personality stands in stark contrast to Woo-jin's reserved and emotionally guarded demeanor, and their initial interactions often lead to a mix of frustration and curiosity. As Woo-jin becomes more involved with his job of teaching English to elderly Koreans, he begins instructing Deok-mi as well. Through their English language exchanges, a deep connection and bond form between Woo-jin and Deok-mi. Deok-mi's enthusiasm and resilience in learning a new language captivate Woo-jin, who finds himself drawn to her vitality and strength. As their friendship progresses, Woo-jin becomes increasingly invested in Deok-mi's life, discovering that beneath her gruff exterior lies a complex and profound past. One of the core themes of I Can Speak revolves around Deok-mi's experiences of trauma and loss, deeply rooted in her past during the Japanese occupation of Korea. The historical context adds weight to the narrative, and Deok-mi's personal story serves as a poignant reflection of Korea's tumultuous past and the ongoing legacies of colonialism and war. Throughout the film, Deok-mi struggles to convey her painful recollections and emotions to Woo-jin, but as her trust in him deepens, she slowly begins to reveal more about her life and the struggles she has faced. As the story unfolds, the film shifts from a narrative centered around Woo-jin's character development to a poignant exploration of Deok-mi's emotional journey and her capacity to confront her past. In their conversations, Woo-jin discovers that Deok-mi suffered under the Japanese 'comfort women' system during the Second World War and subsequently had a child who was taken away from her. The painful experiences she recounts serve as a testament to the resilience and courage exhibited by women during a period of brutal occupation and subjugation. The portrayal of Deok-mi and Woo-jin's relationship raises essential questions about empathy, trust, and the role of outsiders in the healing process. Through Deok-mi's bond with Woo-jin, I Can Speak presents an intimate picture of how even the most unlikely of friendships can become a catalyst for profound personal growth, healing, and transformation. Despite the somber tone of the film, I Can Speak ultimately presents a message of hope and the transformative power of human connections. In their conversations, Woo-jin comes to realize the significance of Deok-mi's past experiences and her courageous journey towards healing and self-expression. The film's uplifting and nuanced portrayal of their friendship underscores the idea that, even in the face of adversity, human relationships have the capacity to foster change, understanding, and growth. Ultimately, I Can Speak leaves a lasting impression as a powerful exploration of personal growth, intergenerational relationships, and the enduring power of human connections to heal emotional wounds. Through its poignant portrayal of Woo-jin and Deok-mi's journey, the film offers a testament to the transformative potential of compassion, empathy, and understanding in the lives of its characters.