In a chilling moment that lingers long after the credits roll, Burning strips away the layers of pretense, revealing the darkest corners of obsession and alienation. This gritty psychological thriller has captivated audiences worldwide, earning its place as a “complex masterpiece” and a like-minded reputation of being “Certified Fresh” on Rotten Tomatoes.
Set against the backdrop of a stark yet beautiful South Korean landscape, the film introduces us to Lee Jong-su, an aspiring novelist played with striking vulnerability by Yoo Ah-in. He crosses paths with his former classmate, Shin Hae-mi, portrayed by the talented Jeon Jong-seo. Their seemingly innocent reunion blossoms into a tense romance, complicating Jong-su’s life as he juggles his deliveries and a burgeoning creative career.
As Haemi disappears on a trip to Africa, Jong-su is left to care for her cat, a task that soon spirals out of control. Upon her return, she is not alone; she’s brought back Ben, played by Steven Yeun, known for his captivating roles in The Walking Dead and Beef. While Ben exudes charm and charisma, it quickly becomes apparent that he harbors darker inclinations, instigating a sense of danger that hangs ominously over Haemi.
The film’s narrative is co-crafted by the visionary director Lee Chang-dong, who serves not only as the director but also the producer and co-writer. Recognized with the illustrious FIPRESCI International Critics’ Prize at the 2018 Cannes Film Festival, the film’s acclaim is as multifaceted as its themes, which pull from Haruki Murakami’s short story, Barn Burning, found in The Elephant Vanishes.
One audience member on Rotten Tomatoes encapsulated the film’s essence, labeling it “gritty” while praising Lee for delivering an enthralling and haunting drama that sparkles with mystery. “You’ll feel broken inside,” they wrote, “but you’ll also be left with so many questions.” This sentiment resonates throughout the film’s fabric, interweaving societal issues, literary references, and profound character studies, all meticulously curated by Lee Chang-dong.
Though some viewers have noted the film’s pacing as a potential hurdle, they urge patience, likening the experience to a slow burn that artfully brings together its intricate threads. One even went so far as to describe it as “three kinds of movies in ona character study, a mystery, and a revenge thriller,” highlighting the film’s perplexing ability to defy expectations while crafting a haunting enigma.
With a near-perfect 95% score on its Tomatometer, Burning has also garnered critical acclaim, but it’s worth noting that its content may not be suitable for everyone. Rated 15 by the British Board of Film Classification, it features strong violence, sex, nudity, and drug misuse, creating an experience that’s both evocatively artistic and starkly unsettling.
Available for streaming on Netflix, Burning stands as a testament to the astonishing capabilities of modern cinema, challenging audiences to question art, reality, and the very nature of connection. If you appreciate films that linger in your mind, demanding reflection long after viewing, then this haunting thriller is a must-watch.