Obituary

Set in post-war South Korea, 'Obituary,' directed by Lee Gi-hwan, is a poignant and powerful tale of a mother-daughter bond, the struggles of living in poverty, and the devastating consequences of choices made in desperation. The story revolves around Seong-jae, a struggling maid who lives with her loving daughter, Soon-i, in the small village of Seok-ju. Seong-jae's life becomes increasingly challenging as her employer, Yeong-dal, manipulates her situation, making it impossible for her to generate an income through her sewing skills. Faced with this desperation, Soon-i is eventually forced into a life of servitude as Yeong-dal's concubine. This traumatic event marks a significant turning point in the narrative, exposing the harsh realities of poverty and the cruel consequences of exploitation. The scene shifts with Seong-jae finding solace in opening a tavern, a long-held dream she had put on hold due to her difficult circumstances. Though this newfound hope brings a semblance of stability to her life, it is short-lived. Soon-i, unable to bear the shame of her current situation, leaves a cryptic letter behind, abandoning her family in search of redemption. As the months pass, Seong-joo receives a series of mysterious payments from Soon-i in Pyongyang, where she has become a sex worker. Haunted by the news, Seong-joo begins an arduous journey to find her daughter, accompanied by Seok-ju, a young man from the neighboring village who has secretly harbored romantic feelings for Soon-i. The duo's search takes them through a maze of desolate streets and crowded red-light districts, a reflection of the harsh realities faced by women like Soon-i, who are forced into these situations due to poverty and a lack of options. When they finally locate Soon-i, however, her situation is far more dire than they could have imagined. Soon-i, desperate to escape the cycle of sin and debt, turns to crime and robs a pawnshop, a decision that ultimately sets her on a path to redemption. Though the circumstances of her life may be grim, this act shows a glimmer of resilience and a desire to break free from the shackles of her circumstances. As the story unfolds, the bond between Seong-jae and Soon-i remains an overriding concern, a reminder of the power of a mother's love in the face of unimaginable adversity. The narrative raises poignant questions about the nature of poverty, the consequences of desperation, and the long-term effects of exploitation. Through 'Obituary,' Lee Gi-hwan paints a stark and unflinching portrait of post-war South Korea, one that serves as a powerful tribute to the resilience of women like Seong-jae and Soon-i, who survive against the odds in the face of an unforgiving world. Despite its tragic undertones, the film is ultimately a celebration of hope, a testament to the enduring power of a mother's love and the unbreakable bond between two women.