Kim Ji Young Born 1982

"Kim Ji Young: Born 1982" is a gripping South Korean drama that delves into the life of an ordinary woman, Kim Ji Young, portrayed by the talented Jung Yu Mi. Set against the backdrop of contemporary Korean society, the film navigates through the everyday challenges and societal pressures faced by women. Co-starring Gong Yoo as Jung Dae Hyun, Ji Young's supportive yet perplexed husband, the story unfolds as Ji Young begins to show signs of psychological distress, manifesting the personas of women she has known throughout her life.

Directed by Kim Do Young, this adaptation of Cho Nam-Joo's best-selling novel of the same name captures the essence of the everyday struggles against the traditional and patriarchal expectations imposed on women. The narrative gracefully weaves through Ji Young's life, from her carefree childhood and challenging professional career to her roles as a daughter, wife, and mother. This progression effectively highlights the conflicting demands and cumulative burdens that lead to her emotional and mental turmoil.

As the story progresses, "Kim Ji Young: Born 1982" explores deeper themes of mental health and gender inequality, sparking conversations about the cultural expectations that restrict women’s roles in society. Through flashbacks and interactions, the film portrays the subtle yet pervasive forms of discrimination that women endure, making it a relatable and poignant drama for a wide audience. This film not only resonates deeply with viewers because of its relatable content but also shines due to the compelling performances of its leads, Jung Yu Mi and Gong Yoo. Their portrayals add a rich layer of emotion and authenticity to the narrative, making "Kim Ji Young: Born 1982" a must-watch for those who appreciate films that challenge societal norms and advocate for gender equality. Its critical acclaim and relevance in discussions about women's roles in society ensure that it remains a significant work in contemporary cinema.

Details

🙂 Native Title: 82년생 김지영
🌎 Also Known As: Kim Ji-young, Born 1982
🎭 Genres: Drama
🏷 Tags: Mental Health, Feminism, Family, Society, Psychological
✍ Screenwriters: Yoo Young-ah
🎬 Directors: Kim Do-young
🇰🇷 Country: South Korea
🎬 Release Date: October 23, 2019
📺 Original Network: N/A (Theatrical Release)
⏰ Duration: 118 min
🔞 Content Rating: PG-13 (Parents Strongly Cautioned)

Best Scenes

Ji Young’s Breakdown: The powerful moment when Ji Young breaks down, revealing her struggles, captures the emotional core of the story.
Childhood Flashbacks: Scenes depicting Ji Young’s childhood illuminate the societal pressures she has faced from a young age.
Conversation with Her Mother: A poignant discussion between Ji Young and her mother about life choices and sacrifices is both touching and revelatory.
Ji Young at Work: Showcases the sexism Ji Young faces in her workplace, highlighting gender inequality in professional settings.
Ending Resolution: The film’s conclusion provides a thoughtful reflection on Ji Young’s journey towards healing and self-acceptance.

Filming Locations

Seoul, South Korea: Urban and residential areas of Seoul provide a backdrop that resonates with the film’s themes of everyday life and societal norms.
Neighborhood Parks and Cafes: These common spaces are used to depict the ordinary yet significant moments of Ji Young’s life.
Suburban Areas: Offer a contrast between Ji Young’s current life and her aspirations, emphasizing the theme of personal space and freedom.

Visual Design and Costumes

Everyday Wardrobe: Ji Young’s costumes reflect her role as an everywoman, with practical and simple clothing that many viewers can relate to.
Office Wear: The professional attire contrasts sharply with casual home clothes, highlighting the dual roles women often play.
Color Palette: Subdued colors dominate the film, mirroring the subdued emotions and monotony of Ji Young’s life.
Home Interior: The design of Ji Young’s home is cozy yet constrained, symbolizing her world.
Seasonal Changes: The film uses seasonal shifts to reflect changes in Ji Young’s emotional state.

Themes and Messages

Gender Inequality: Critiques the deep-seated sexism in both domestic and professional realms.
Mental Health Awareness: Addresses the impact of societal pressures on individual mental health, promoting a dialogue about women’s issues.
Feminism: Acts as a voice for women’s rights and equality, challenging traditional roles.
Family Dynamics: Explores the complexities of familial relationships and expectations.
Personal Identity: Questions the loss and rediscovery of self among women in contemporary society.

Interesting Facts

Based on a Best-Selling Novel: The film is an adaptation of a popular book by Cho Nam-joo, which sparked significant social discourse in South Korea.
Controversial Reception: The film ignited debate and backlash for its feminist themes, highlighting societal divides.
Box Office Success: Despite controversies, it was a commercial success, demonstrating the audience’s strong engagement with its themes.
Impact on Viewers: The film led to increased discussions about gender roles in Korean society.
Global Reach: “Kim Ji Young: Born 1982” has been screened internationally, bringing its powerful message to a global audience.

Awards

Bu-il Film Awards (2020) – Won Best Supporting Actress (Kim Mi-kyung).
Korean Association of Film Critics Awards (2020) – Won Best Actress (Jung Yu-mi).
Women in Film Korea Festival (2020) – Won Best Actress (Jung Yu-mi).

Real-Life Loves on Set

There are no publicly reported instances of real-life romantic relationships forming among the cast members during the making of “Kim Ji Young: Born 1982.” The film, which deals with profound social and personal issues, appears to have maintained a professional and focused atmosphere on set, with the actors dedicated to bringing their complex characters to life. The interactions among the cast were professional, aimed at effectively conveying the movie’s themes rather than personal connections developing into romances.