🎬 Film News – 12.12: The Day (2023, South Korea): A Gripping Reimagining of a Nation's Turning Point
12.12: The Day (2023), directed by Kim Sung-su, is a South Korean historical drama that delves into the pivotal events of December 12, 1979, when a military coup led by Chun Doo-hwan (portrayed by Hwang Jung-min) threatened the nation's democratic foundations. The film offers a tense, action-packed portrayal of the nine-hour standoff between Chun and Lee Tae-shin (Jung Woo-sung), commander of the Capital Defense Command, who stands resolute in defending the constitution and military neutrality.WikipediaThe Times of India+5VIEW OF THE ARTS+5Yonhap News Agency+5
Plot Overview
Set against the backdrop of Seoul's winter, the film chronicles the high-stakes confrontation between Chun and Lee. As Chun orchestrates a coup to seize control, Lee and his loyalists engage in a desperate battle to thwart the takeover, navigating political intrigue, military strategy, and personal sacrifice. The narrative unfolds in real-time, heightening the sense of urgency and drawing viewers into the heart of the crisis.
Critical Acclaim and Box Office Success
12.12: The Day has been met with widespread critical acclaim. The film boasts a 98% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes, reflecting its strong reception among viewers. Critics have lauded the film for its historical accuracy, intense performances, and gripping storytelling. Screen International commended the film's "nail-biting thriller" quality, while the South China Morning Post highlighted its "frequent cross-cutting and split-screen techniques" that enhance the suspenseful atmosphere. Rotten Tomatoes
Commercially, the film has been a significant success. It surpassed 12 million admissions in South Korea, becoming the most-viewed film of 2023 and the fourth-highest-grossing South Korean film of all time. Notably, it is the first Korean non-sequel film to achieve this milestone since the COVID-19 pandemic, underscoring its widespread appeal. Wikipedia+1Yonhap News Agency+1Soompi
International Recognition
The film's impact has extended beyond South Korea. It was selected as the country's entry for the Best International Feature Film category at the 97th Academy Awards, marking a significant achievement in its international recognition. Wikipedia+1koreajoongangdaily.joins.com+1
Conclusion
12.12: The Day stands as a testament to South Korea's cinematic prowess, offering a compelling and historically resonant narrative. Through its masterful direction, stellar performances, and immersive storytelling, the film provides an insightful look into a critical moment in the nation's history, resonating with audiences both domestically and internationally.
Comments
0 comment