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Su saek

Su saek (2016)

Mar 31, 2016 1h 52m Drama Crime Action

Yoon-seok, Sang-woo, Won-seon, Ho-young are 4 best friends living in Susaek, the poor town in Seoul. Having the waste landfill nearby, Susaek is full of smells and trucks carrying the metropolitan garbage. When Korea holds the 2002 World Cup, Susaek is mentioned for the place of new soccer stadium. Rich dealers crowd into the town and villagers get excited for the hope of redevelopment. Meanwhile Won-seon is recruited by the regional gang and gets involved in the redevelopment business, and the petty jealousy of Sang-woo cracks down their friendship…

Directed by Choi Seung-yeon

Cast

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Crew

Director
  • Choi Seung-yeon
Writer
  • Choi Seung-yeon

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Thematic Analysis

As a dramatic work, Su saek examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of contemporary challenges that mirror our own experiences. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.

Director Choi Seung-yeon brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.

Released in 2016, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its critical acclaim reflects its artistic achievements and its place in cinema history.

Did You Know?

  • The production of Su saek took approximately 14 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 112 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 165 minutes long.
  • Some visual effects sequences took up to 7 months to complete.
  • The cast underwent specialized training for 5 weeks before filming began.
  • The costume department created over 320 unique costume pieces for the production.

Historical Context

  • In 2016, when this film is released:
  • Climate change awareness was becoming a central global concern.
  • Political polarization was intensifying in many countries.
  • Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.

How This Film Stands Out

While Su saek shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.

Unlike Teacher Waryong's Trip to Seoul, which focuses more on action than character development, Su saek offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.

While films like High & Low The Worst X and Crows Explode explore similar territory, Su saek stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.

This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.

Details

  • Release Date: March 31, 2016
  • Runtime: 1h 52m