Why Busan’s Hidden Cinema Embodies Moviegoing’s Enduring Power

A new film project premiering at the Busan International Film Festival champions the magic of movie theaters. Directors Lee Jong-pil and Yoon Ga-eun co-created “Time of Cinema” to highlight the unique value of watching films on the big screen. The project consists of two distinct short films. They explore the shared ritual of cinema-going in a digital age.

The festival is hosting the premiere in its Korean Cinema Today section. This showcase highlights significant new works from leading Korean directors. According to the Busan International Film Festival, the film is a love letter to a timeless tradition.

Two Short Films Explore Different Aspects of Film

Lee Jong-pil’s short, “Chimpanzee,” follows three strangers. They bond after watching a movie about apes imported to Korea in the 1970s. Their post-screening conversation reveals wildly different interpretations of the film’s message. It captures a familiar experience for any movie fan.

The segment is designed to evoke the feeling of being lost in a story. It questions what is real and what is imagined. Lee’s work shows how a film’s meaning can change over time.

Yoon Ga-eun’s short, “Naturally,” takes a more meta approach. It follows a filmmaker and her crew working with seven young girls. The director tries to capture a natural performance from the children.

This leads to a deep discussion on the nature of acting itself. The film offers a rare glimpse behind the camera. It shows the creative process of building a cinematic moment.

A Timely Tribute to Theatrical Exhibition

The project arrives at a critical time for global cinema. Theatrical attendance has faced significant challenges in recent years. Streaming platforms offer immense convenience for content consumption.

“Time of Cinema” argues that the theater offers something unique. It is not just about the film itself. The experience includes the anticipation before and the reflection after the credits roll.

Lee Jong-pil hopes his work serves as an extraordinary playground for audiences. He wants viewers to witness other lives up close. Through this, he believes they can rediscover something new about themselves.

The film “Time of Cinema” makes a compelling case for the big screen. It reminds us that the cinema experience creates lasting memories. This project powerfully defends the essential value of theatrical exhibition.

Thought you’d like to know

What is the main theme of “Time of Cinema”?

The film explores the unique and irreplaceable experience of watching a movie in a cinema. It argues this act creates lasting memories, unlike casual content consumption at home.

Who directed the segments in the film?

“Time of Cinema” is a two-part project. Director Lee Jong-pil directed the short film “Chimpanzee.” Director Yoon Ga-eun directed the second short, titled “Naturally.”

Where is “Time of Cinema” premiering?

The film is having its world premiere at the Busan International Film Festival. It is featured in the festival’s prestigious Korean Cinema Today section.

Why is this film considered important now?

It highlights the cultural value of movie theaters at a time when streaming is dominant. The project serves as a timely defense of the shared cinematic experience.

What is the plot of the “Chimpanzee” segment?

It follows three people who connect after watching a movie about apes. Their conversation reveals how differently people can interpret the same film.

What does the “Naturally” segment focus on?

It goes behind the scenes of a film set. A director works with child actors to capture a natural performance, exploring the nature of acting.