As we step into the third month of 2024, new movies and shows await. One of them is already here in the form of My Name is Loh Kiwan, a Korean romantic drama.
Now streaming on Netflix, the emotional film is a little over two hours in length. It is based on the novel I Met Loh Kiwan by Cho Hae-jin.
Korea is known for some mesmerizing love stories. Can this one strengthen the belief? Find out in my review.
My Name is Loh Kiwan Synopsis
Facing persecution in North Korea, a young man flies to Belgium seeking asylum, leaving behind a harsh past and stepping into a future of dark uncertainties.
Directed by Kim Hee-jin, the movie stars Song Joong-ki (Loh Kiwan), Choi Sung-eun (Marie Lee), Wael Sersoub, Cho Han-cheul, Kim Sung-ryoung, Lee II-hwa, and others.
What Works for My Name is Loh Kiwan?
As the name suggests, the movie follows the journey of an individual named Loh Kiwan.
The general principle in such ideas is to begin with emotions and use flashbacks as an important element.
My Name is Loh Kiwan travels on a similar path. But it never becomes complacent in its endeavor.
After defecting from North Korea, Loh Kiwan struggles to obtain refugee status in Belgium. His life becomes a living hell before a chance encounter with a dejected woman results in both tragedy and hope. Can their story become free of torture and exploitation?
The first hour of the movie is heartbreaking. It has the potential to leave you numb as you witness a tragic story unfold.
Despite a recurring concept, the film doesn’t feel like clockwork. The rightly intended plot stands as the pillar of strength for My Name is Loh Kiwan.
It is void of loudness since the narration is relaxed and unhurried.
The realistic depiction of an individual’s plight allows the film to stay close to the audience’s hearts. It never gets too dramatic or overt in execution.
The screenplay remains a bit dark and dusky, mostly relying on situational spiraling. A gentle yet fueling background score ably facilitates the narrative.
Sorrow is what connects you with the tale and hope is what sustains the connection.
If the aim was to put a fictional protagonist in the lap of the viewers, My Name is Loh Kiwan largely succeeds in doing so.
How are the Performances?
Song Joong-ki plays the titular role of Loh Kiwan. His natural ability to act with a susceptible aura powers the movie in the initial hour.
He dedicates himself to the storyline and projects the cause of the plot in a convincing manner. You feel for his character, thanks to his illustrative yet subtle screen presence in My Name is Loh Kiwan.
Choi Sung-eun as Marie Lee presents a blurry character who you will need time to love. She takes care of her sketch effortlessly and brings it alive in the most presentable manner.
The actress uses her volatile expressions to great effect while communicating through different shades.
What Doesn’t Work for My Name is Loh Kiwan?
The idea isn’t novel. You may have come across such stories plenty of times. Only the dynamics change here.
Moreover, the second half of My Name is Loh Kiwan isn’t as powerful as one expects it to be. The story shifts to a different level and the initial ambiance goes for a toss.
Its emotional value wanes as the movie progresses. As a result, the creation never really impresses you as a compact or wholesome investment.
Stream or Skip?
Running at a natural pace, My Name is Loh Kiwan has the power to evoke emotions. However, the second half is slightly disappointing.
I would still suggest you to give it a go.
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