Here are the review and backstories of ‘Concrete Utopia’.
K-movie ‘Concrete Utopia’ Review
In my opinion, the K-movie ‘Concrete Utopia stands out as the best Korean disaster film I’ve ever seen, possibly even the top choice among Korean releases this year. It goes beyond the typical epidemic or zombie scenarios, delving into the fractures within human society caused by impending doom. It provides a unique experience compared to other films like Train to Busan, Cold, Tunnel, and Haeundae, which I personally find distinct. Judging the wisest choices in such dire circumstances is challenging.
In the movie, Lee Byung-hun and Park Seo-joon’s characters take actions ostensibly for the residents, but their involvement in murder and looting might lead one to label their deeds as evil. On the other hand, Park Bo-young’s character, by breaking the community’s first principle, might be considered virtuous for extending a helping hand to someone in need. Discussing these contrasting aspects is not only possible but also invaluable. The exploration of the interplay between good and evil proves captivating.
The film mirrors the current trend of collective selfishness in South Korea, almost like a premonition of dwindling altruism. Even if Korea isn’t presently grappling with a disaster akin to that in the movie, it seems people are already adopting the main characters’ actions during crises. This realization, above all else, deeply saddened me. As communities dissolve, it becomes a mixed sentiment to consider the absence of conflict between neighbors as a relief.
Returning to the core point, what I initially perceived as a utopia, the Hwangung apartment, ultimately reveals itself as a dystopia. The emergence of “Myeonghwa” and the newfound community in the outside world truly feels like encountering utopia on screen after a prolonged period, leaving me in awe.
K-movie ‘Concrete Utopia’ Backstories
Webtoon Original by Kim Soo-nyung
The film “Concrete Utopia” draws inspiration from the webcomic series “Joyful Bullying” by Kim Soo-nyung. Split into two parts, the first, “Joyful Bullying,” unfolds the story of students trapped in a collapsed school basement, focusing on Seo Dong-hyun, a bullied middle school student. The second part, “Joyful Neighbors,” follows Seo Dong-hyun and other main characters as they escape the basement and navigate the post-apocalyptic world outside of school.
Director Eom Tae-hwa crafted a fresh adaptation titled “The Pleasant Neighborhood,” a disaster drama portraying survivors gathering in earthquake-ravaged Seoul.
Director Eom Tae-hwa’s Connection to Park Chan-wook
Director Eom Tae-hwa formerly worked in Park Chan-wook’s directing department. This association led to director Park Chan-wook participating in a GV event, where he engaged in discussions about the film with director Eom Tae-hwa.
Park Bo-young’s Challenge During Filming
Park Bo-young encountered difficulties portraying a character going through a slump in acting due to Lee Byung-hun’s remarkable acting skills. Especially in scenes where “Myeonghwa” confronts “Young Tak” in the second half, director Eom Tae-hwa advised Park Bo-young to approach it with resilience.
To help her overcome the fear of facing Lee Byung-hun, footage of Young-tak transforming into a compelling character was shared with Park Bo-young. The actors frequently discussed their feelings about each other, and Park Bo-young approached the role with inspiration from “Halchi” and “Mottooth,” where empty fish eyes come to mind.
No Cookie Video, but a Cookie “Apartment”
“Concrete Utopia” lacks a traditional cookie video, contrary to expectations. Instead, there is a unique element referred to as the “cookie apartment.” While waiting for a potential rice cake throw to initiate the concrete universe, viewers will hear cookie music sung by Park Ji-hoo. The movie features a distinct “apartment” scene, different from Yoon Soo-il’s “apartment,” providing a melancholic and empty emotional experience.
Filming Winter Scenes in Summer
Despite the movie’s winter setting, the filming occurred during the summer. Actors had to cope with extreme heat while wearing winter costumes, presenting a unique challenge. The film successfully captures a wintry atmosphere, thanks to meticulous attention to detail by the staff, considering even small props and color changes reflecting the characters’ psychology.
Director Eom Tae-hwa’s Brother’s Special Appearance
Director Eom Tae-hwa’s younger brother, Eom Tae-gu, made a special appearance in the movie as a homeless leader outside the palace apartment. He shares a cruel rumor about the apartment, providing an unexpected perspective on the supposed paradise. Despite their familial connection, the director emphasized that Eom Tae-gu was cast through formal procedures, receiving a fair appearance fee.
Others
- On August 5, 2023, at CGV Seomyeon in Busanjin-gu, Busan, a female audience member rushed onto the stage and suddenly hugged Park Seo-joon, causing him distress.
- Actor Park Bo-young is making her return to the screen after a five-year hiatus.
- Park Ji-hoo, who previously appeared in Eom Tae-hwa’s film “The Hidden Time,” is part of the cast.
- Actor Lee Byung-hun sported an M-shaped forehead style for his character, expressing concern that fans might be deterred.
- The production team constructed a three-story apartment set, incorporating dust generated by disaster scenes mixed with bean powder or mushroom powder.
- In the main film, Dream Palace is mentioned as the name of a nearby apartment, and Kim Sun-young, who appeared in the independent film “Dream Palace,” is also part of this movie.
