BUSAN, South Korea: South Korean director Hur Jin-ho, famous for his early romantic films, showcased his new thriller A Normal Family at the Busan International Film Festival, marking a bold shift in his filmography. The movie, based on Herman Koch’s Dutch crime novel The Dinner, explores the dark secrets of two affluent families whose teenage children are involved in disturbing events.
Starring veteran actors Kim Hee-ae and Jang Dong-gun, the film addresses pressing social issues in South Korea, such as the country’s hyper-competitive education system and the growing class divide. It delves into the impact of nepotism and power abuse scandals, drawing parallels to real-life controversies. The film has been well-received, with its first screening in Busan earning warm applause. Kim Hee-ae’s portrayal of a deeply flawed, protective mother received particular praise for its intensity. The film is set for its domestic release on October 16.
