Director-star Kim's newest film succinctly packages the four seasons as metaphors for the stages of life. The simple tale follows the solemn existence of a Buddhist monk and his young pupil -- through playful innocence (spring), adolescent lust (summer), contemptuous rage (fall), redemption (winter), and ultimately rebirth (spring) -- with a secluded mountain lake providing the serene backdrop. Attention to detail is Kim's forte: Every sound is clearly articulated, whether it's the slither of a snake through fallen leaves or the plunge of an oar into water. The wistful soundtrack meshes sublimely with the visual narration, conveying a deeper sense of the pupil's trials.
EXTRAS None, but the images relate the story so elegantly that even subtitles aren't necessary (though they are included).
Add your comment
The rules: Keep it clean, and stay on the subject or we might delete your comment. If you see inappropriate language, e-mail us. An asterisk * indicates a required field.