Poetry
A sexagenarian South Korean woman enrolls in a poetry class as she grapples with her faltering memory and her grandson's appalling wrongdoing.
Dialogues from Movie Poetry
The Spark of Inspiration, Reelive
I want to write poetry, but I don’t know if I can find anything worth writing about.
But the world is full of beauty and pain, Mija. You just need to open your eyes.
What if I only see pain? What do I do then?
Then write about that pain. There’s art in suffering, too.
Isn’t that a little bleak?
Life is bleak sometimes. But that’s also where poetry can flourish.
Confronting Reality, Reelive
Why can’t he just be like other kids? Why does he have to make things so hard?
Maybe he’s showing us what we refuse to see.
What do you mean?
That we can’t pretend everything is fine. There’s something wrong here.
But do we have to confront it? Can’t we just let it be?
If we do, it will consume us. We have to face it.
The Power of Words, Reelive
Poetry is about expressing truths that often remain unsaid.
What if my truth is ugly?
Then that’s your truth, and it deserves to be heard.
Can beauty arise from ugliness?
Absolutely. Sometimes the most beautiful poetry comes from our darkest places.
I hope I can find that beauty.
Finding a Voice, Reelive
My heart is a fragile thing, but I’m learning to write my truth.
What if no one understands that truth?
Then they don’t. But it’s still worth sharing.
Do you ever fear your truth will hurt others?
Only if it's ignored. Bringing it to light can heal us all.
I’ve never thought about it that way.
Weight of Responsibility, Reelive
How do I balance this? My poetry and my family’s issues?
You can’t ignore your family, Mija. But don’t bury your voice either.
It feels impossible.
It’s not easy, but they can coexist. Use your poetry as an outlet.
But what if the outlet hurts them?
Then you find a way to express without malice.
Art and Empathy, Reelive
Do you think poetry can change the world?
Maybe, but more importantly, it can change us.
So it’s about personal growth?
Yes, and sharing those experiences with others.
Is that how you see your work?
More like a mirror. I want others to see their pain reflected.
Confronting Emotions, Reelive
Why do I keep lying to myself?
Because the truth is uncomfortable.
But if I can’t face it, how can I write?
You can’t. The truth must come first.
Then I must be brave. I’ll start there.
Start now.
A Choice to Make, Reelive
What am I supposed to choose? Family or my own voice?
Mija, you can choose both.
But it feels like betrayal to write about the truth.
Or it can be your truth that liberates us.
A truth shrouded in pain.
And sometimes love hurts. But it can heal, too.
The Healing Path, Reelive
Our stories often overlap. Sharing them heals us.
But what if sharing hurts others?
Then we choose our words carefully, Mija.
It’s hard to find that balance.
That’s the art of writing—to refine the chaos into something beautiful.
What if I fail?
Then you get up and try again.
Courage to Create, Reelive
What if no one relates to what I write?
Then find the ones who do. That’s who you write for.
But I’m terrified.
That fear means you’re human, Mija. Embrace it.
Can courage come from fear?
Absolutely. Every great artist felt it.
In Search of Solace, Reelive
Is there solace in the chaos?
Sometimes, you find it in the words.
But will they ever be enough?
They only need to be enough for you.
What if I’m still lost?
Then keep searching. Poetry is a journey.
Moment of Truth, Reelive
This piece is about my struggle with silence.
We’re listening.
Silence can suffocate, but through words, I find air.
Keep going.
And in that air, I write. I bleed. I finally breathe.
Your story matters.
Reflections of Growth, Reelive
I never knew, Mija. Thank you for sharing.
It was hard to speak my truth.
But it needed to be said. You’ve inspired me.
I didn’t write just for you.
But your words spoke to me, and that’s enough.
Then maybe I can write more.
A New Dawn, Reelive
Can poetry really capture this moment?
Every moment is a story waiting to be told.
Then I’ll write it. I’ll remember.
And in remembering, you’ll honor your truth.
Here’s to new beginnings.
And to the stories yet to be written.
Quotes from Movie Poetry
I want to write poetry, but I can't find the words. The world around me is beautiful, yet tragic, and I need to express that.
Mija
Poetry, Reelive
Beauty is a fleeting thing; it comes and goes. But I want to capture it in my words.
Mija
Poetry, Reelive
Poetry is not just an art; it's a mirror of life. It reveals both joy and sorrow.
Mija
Poetry, Reelive
I learned that if we can't speak about the pain, we cannot find the beauty.
Mija
Poetry, Reelive
This is my life. I have the right to express it, even with the chaos around me.
Mija
Poetry, Reelive
The world can be cruel, but poetry can give it a voice.
Mija
Poetry, Reelive
To write poetry, you must feel deeply. Only then can words flow like water.
Mija
Poetry, Reelive
Life is a series of moments, and each one deserves to be spoken about.
Mija
Poetry, Reelive
Sometimes, the silence speaks louder than words.
Mija
Poetry, Reelive
With every poem, I inch closer to understanding myself.
Mija
Poetry, Reelive
Every word I write is a step toward healing.
Mija
Poetry, Reelive
The truth can be a painful thing, yet it is also the foundation of great poetry.
Mija
Poetry, Reelive
It’s not about perfection; it’s about authenticity. That’s where real poetry lies.
Mija
Poetry, Reelive
In every poem, I find echoes of my heart.
Mija
Poetry, Reelive
Poetry is a dance of words and emotions, a delicate balance of pain and beauty.
Mija
Poetry, Reelive
Even in despair, we can find a glimmer of beauty. That’s the essence of my poetry.
Mija
Poetry, ReeliveMemorable Scenes from Movie Poetry
The Blossoming of Poetry
In this poignant moment, Mija, affected by the onset of Alzheimer’s, discovers her passion for poetry. She visits a park to observe nature and people, humming to herself as she finds inspiration amidst the beauty. The scene is visually stunning – vibrant flowers sway in the breeze, reflecting Mija's awakening spirit. This early exploration cements her determination to write poetry despite her personal challenges.
Context: This scene sets the stage for Mija’s journey, highlighting her desire to find beauty in life, which contrasts with the darkness that will unfold later.
The First Poetry Class
Mija attends a poetry class for the first time. There’s a mixture of nervousness and excitement. As the instructor encourages students to share their thoughts, she is hesitant but gradually opens up. Her struggle to articulate her feelings reflects her inner turmoil. The transformation from silent observer to an engaged participant marks a new chapter in her life.
Context: This moment underscores Mija’s pursuit of creativity and self-expression, setting up her character's development and her quest for beauty.
The Conversation with Her Grandson
During a candid conversation with her grandson, Mija learns about his troubled life and the pressures he faces. The weight of their familial bond is palpable as they discuss difficult topics. The camera captures Mija’s concern and love, highlighting the generational gap and the challenges of understanding each other.
Context: This scene deepens the family dynamics, showcasing Mija's concern for her grandson while hinting at her own struggles with his choices.
The Discovered Incident
Mija learns about a shocking incident involving her grandson and a girl who is now in a critical condition. The revelation is delivered subtly but hits hard, as Mija tries to process this traumatic news. The subdued lighting and Mija's silent reaction enhance the gravity of the situation.
Context: This turning point introduces a major conflict in the narrative, raising stakes for Mija as she navigates her understanding of morality.
Visiting the Hospital
Mija visits the girl in the hospital, and the stark reality of the situation confronts her. The scene is heart-wrenching, showcasing Mija’s empathy as she observes the girl’s fragile state. The silence speaks volumes as Mija reflects on the consequences of her grandson's actions.
Context: This moment is crucial as it shifts Mija’s focus from poetry to the harsh realities of life and the weight of her grandson’s mistakes.
The Contrast of Beauty and Tragedy
Mija returns to the park with the same sense of awe but now feels the burden of sorrow. As she observes the flowers and people enjoying life, a sense of internal conflict brews. The juxtaposition of beauty in nature against her despair creates a haunting visual.
Context: This scene encapsulates Mija’s struggle to reconcile her artistic aspirations with life’s brutal truths, enhancing the film's thematic depth.
The Heavy Decision
In a quiet moment, Mija confronts her moral dilemma regarding her grandson. She contemplates whether to remain loyal or to speak the truth. The weight of her decisions hangs heavy in the air, accentuated by close-up shots of her conflicted expression. The emotional stakes are at a peak.
Context: This pivotal moment forces Mija to weigh her love for family against her ethical values, which plays a significant role in her character development.
Reading Her First Poem
Mija stands before the poetry class to read her first poem. There’s a palpable mix of fear and excitement. The words spill from her heart, filled with raw emotion and beauty. Her classmates’ reactions, a blend of admiration and surprise, affirm her journey and growth.
Context: This moment signifies Mija embracing her identity as a poet, showcasing her emotional evolution while bringing her closer to her dream.
The Conversation with the Girl’s Family
Mija meets with the victim's family to express her sorrow. Beneath the surface, Mija grapples with guilt as she listens to their pain. This confrontation reveals the ripple effect of her grandson’s actions, showcasing the film's themes of accountability and anguish.
Context: This emotionally charged scene showcases Mija's confrontation with the repercussions of her family’s choices, elevating the narrative’s impact.
The Final Writing Attempt
In her quiet room, Mija struggles to write her final poem, reflecting on life’s beauty and tragedy. Frustration mingles with inspiration as she seeks the perfect words. The camera captures her tears, symbolizing the culmination of grief, love, and hope. This raw piece of art becomes a testament to her journey.
Context: This scene highlights Mija's emotional reconnection with poetry, reminding viewers of the power of art to process pain and beauty.
The Epiphany at the Lake
Mija walks by a calm lake, surrounded by the beauty of nature. A moment of clarity washes over her as she reflects on her life choices. The serene visuals, paired with her contemplative expression, create a poignant moment of realization and acceptance.
Context: This scene brings forth Mija’s growing understanding of love, loss, and the fleeting nature of life, resonating deeply with viewers.
The Confrontation with Her Grandson
Mija confronts her grandson about his actions, full of raw emotion. She expresses her disappointment yet retains her love for him. The dialogue between them reveals the complexities of familial love and disappointment, culminating in a powerful moment of truth.
Context: This confrontation crystallizes Mija’s emotional journey, emphasizing themes of family loyalty against the backdrop of moral dilemmas.
The Poignant Farewell
Mija bids farewell to the girl’s family, expressing her hopes for healing amid tragedy. This moment encapsulates her growth, showcasing her transition from despair to understanding. The soft lighting and gentle music amplify the emotional resonance, creating a sense of catharsis.
Context: This moment signifies Mija’s acceptance of her pain and loss, allowing her to move forward with her life while honoring the past.
The Final Poetry Reading
In a moment of triumph, Mija reads her final poem to a captivated audience. Her voice trembles but remains clear, conveying her emotional journey. This is not just a personal victory, but a celebration of life, beauty, and the complexities of human experience. The audience’s applause signifies a collective acknowledgment of her courage.
Context: This scene embodies the culmination of Mija's journey, reaffirming the healing power of art and the human spirit's resilience.
The Closing Scene by the River
The film concludes with Mija sitting by a flowing river, the sunlight casting a warm glow. She watches the water, serene yet contemplative. The visuals of life moving forward mirror her acceptance of her circumstances, leaving viewers with a sense of hope and continuity.
Context: This closing scene encapsulates Mija's journey toward acceptance and serves as a profound commentary on life’s cyclical nature and the possibilities of renewal.
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Behind the Scenes from Movie Poetry
Casting Choices
The film's lead actress, Yoon Jeong-hee, was a renowned former star who had stepped away from acting for nearly three decades before returning for 'Poetry'.
Why it matters: Her return brought a depth of authenticity and emotional nuance to the character of Mija, allowing the film to resonate deeply with audiences and critics alike.
Personal Touch by the Director
Director Lee Chang-dong wrote 'Poetry' extensively based on his own experiences and reflections on the beauty and tragedy of life, as well as his love for poetry.
Why it matters: This personal connection infused the film’s narrative with emotional weight, making Mija's journey feel both universal and deeply intimate.
The Role of the River
The river scenes were filmed using a real river, which was a decision that added realism yet also posed challenges due to unpredictable weather conditions.
Why it matters: The natural setting enhanced the film's contemplative mood, visually symbolizing the flow of life and the inevitability of change.
Improvisation in Dialogue
Some of the dialogue, particularly between Mija and the teenage boy, was improvised, allowing for more genuine interactions.
Why it matters: This approach gave the film a more authentic feel, drawing audiences into the intimate dynamics of the characters' relationships.
Cinematographic Style
The cinematographer, Lee Ahn, utilized a naturalistic style of shooting with minimal artificial lighting to maintain realism.
Why it matters: This choice created a poignant atmosphere that reflects Mija's internal struggles, enhancing the emotional impact of her journey through the art of poetry.
The Poetic Connection
The use of poetry throughout the film was not merely thematic; it helped shape character arcs and dialogue consciously constructed around poetic principles.
Why it matters: The integration of poetry served as a metaphor for Mija's aspirations and challenges, intensifying the film’s message about finding beauty amidst tragedy.
Mija’s Artistic Discovery
Scenes depicting Mija writing poetry were shot with meticulous care, as Yoon Jeong-hee herself was given poetry lessons to embody the role authentically.
Why it matters: This dedication ensured that the poetic elements felt genuine and allowed audiences to connect deeply with Mija's creative journey.
Location Shooting
Filming took place in various locations across a scenic area, which brought an authentic representational contrast to the urban struggles depicted in the narrative.
Why it matters: These locations helped underscore Mija's isolation and provided a visual metaphor for the beauty and brutality of her life.
Sound Design and Music Choices
The score was deliberately sparse, layering sounds reflective of the natural environment, which placed more emphasis on dialogue and silence.
Why it matters: This sound design choice heightened emotional moments, allowing viewers to feel the weight of Mija's experiences without the distraction of overwhelming music.
Symbolism of Flowers
Flowers, notably hydrangeas, featured prominently throughout the film and were intentionally chosen to symbolize beauty and the fleeting nature of life.
Why it matters: This symbolism enriched the narrative, as it mirrored Mija's own journey through art and the complexities of human existence explored in the film.
Multifaceted Character Development
The screenplay underwent multiple revisions to ensure that Mija’s emotional arc was fully fleshed out, reflecting her transformation and struggles as a caretaker and an artist.
Why it matters: This comprehensive development allowed viewers to empathize with Mija, making her challenges and triumphs resonate powerfully within the storyline.
International Recognition
'Poetry' premiered at the 2010 Cannes Film Festival, where it received critical acclaim and introduced Western audiences to Lee Chang-dong's unique storytelling style.
Why it matters: The film’s success helped cement Lee's legacy as a significant figure in contemporary Korean cinema, influencing future filmmakers in narrative and thematic choices.
Cultural Context
Set against the backdrop of modern South Korea, the film tackles deep-rooted social issues such as family dysfunction, sexual exploitation, and the struggle for self-expression.
Why it matters: These themes added layers of complexity to Mija's character and were significant in fostering discussions about societal challenges in Korean culture amongst international audiences.
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