‘My Name is Loh Kiwan’ Review: Netflix film is a poignant tale of love, grief and redemption
SEOUL, SOUTH KOREA: ‘My Name is Loh Kiwan’, written and directed by Kim Hee-jin, has officially dropped on Netflix. If you haven’t watched it yet, now might be the perfect time to do so.
Starring Song Joong-ki and Choi Sung-eun in pivotal roles, the film portrays the gripping journey of a North Korean defector seeking refuge in Belgium.
The first feature film from writer-director Kim Hee-jin sheds light on the harsh realities faced by defectors and offers a raw and unflinching portrayal of their experiences.
Song Joong-ki's stellar performance lights up 'My Name is Loh Kiwan’
Song Joong-ki delivers a top-notch performance as Loh Kiwan in 'My Name is Loh Kiwan’, drawing viewers into the emotional journey of the character.
His ability to convey a wide range of emotions with subtlety and authenticity is truly captivating.
Kiwan’s struggles, both internal and external, are depicted with such raw emotion and authenticity that viewers cannot help but be deeply affected by his story.
In 'My Name is Loh Kiwan’, Song Joong-ki’s character is confronted with profound grief following the loss of his mother, while simultaneously battling for survival.
There is no sugarcoating of the harsh realities Kiwan faces; instead, the viewers are immersed in his misery, witnessing the depth of his pain and struggle.
Through his acting, Song Joong-ki brings a sense of vulnerability and humanity to his character, making him relatable and sympathetic to viewers.
Song Joong-ki and Choi Sung-eun's passionate chemistry in 'My Name is Loh Kiwan' stuns viewers
The captivating chemistry between Song Joong-ki and Choi Sung-eun feels truly authentic, making their characters' relationship one of the most compelling aspects of the film.
Choi Sung-eun takes on the role of Marie, Kiwan’s love interest. The Belgian-Korean, a former shooting athlete, has lost her will to live.
Their story adds depth and emotion to the narrative. Beyond its deeply moving immigrant story, ‘My Name is Loh Kiwan’ is also a beautiful love story that resonates with viewers on a profound level.
‘My Name is Loh Kiwan’ explores the complexities of love and relationships, portraying the ups and downs of Kiwan and Marie, drawing viewers into their world and making them emotionally invested in their relationship.
As a writer, Kim Hee-jin demonstrates a nuanced approach to storytelling, delicately balancing the film's emotional depth with sensitivity and authenticity.
Without sensationalizing or oversimplifying it, the director brings a sense of realism to the film.
Incredible cinematography in 'My Name is Loh Kiwan' enhances the storytelling
The film's cinematography captures the beauty of its settings with incredible shots. From the landscapes of North Korea to the bustling streets of Belgium, each shot is carefully composed to convey the emotional depth of the story.
The use of dim lighting and color helps to set the mood of each scene, creating a sense of atmosphere that complements the emotional tone of the story.
In conclusion, the film touches the heart and leaves a lasting impression on viewers through its powerful storytelling, authentic performances, and stunning cinematography.
If these aspects appeal to you, it might be worth checking out ‘My Name is Loh Kiwan’.
‘My Name is Loh Kiwan’ is now streaming on Netflix