Our Blues (2022)

Our Blues (2022) is a Korean omnibus-style drama film that explores the interconnected lives of people on Jeju Island. Directed by Kim Kyu-tae and written by Noh Hee-kyung, the movie is an adaptation of the popular tvN drama series of the same name.

Plot & Themes

The film follows multiple storylines, each focusing on different characters dealing with love, family struggles, aging, mental health, and socioeconomic disparities. The setting—Jeju Island—plays a crucial role, serving as both a picturesque backdrop and a symbol of escape and new beginnings.

Key storylines include:

Lee Dong-seok (Lee Byung-hun) – A truck driver with a tough exterior but deep emotional scars from his past.

Min Seon-ah (Shin Min-a) – A woman battling depression while trying to reconnect with her estranged mother.

Jung Eun-hui (Lee Jung-eun) – A fish shop owner struggling with loneliness and unspoken feelings.

Park Jung-joon (Kim Woo-bin) & Lee Young-ok (Han Ji-min) – A ship captain and a diver navigating a complicated romance.

The film balances heartwarming moments with raw, emotional depth, tackling heavy themes like suicide, single parenthood, and aging with sensitivity.

Performances

The ensemble cast delivers powerful performances:

Lee Byung-hun stands out with his layered portrayal of Dong-seok, blending gruffness with vulnerability.

Shin Min-a gives a heartbreaking performance as a woman drowning in depression.

Kim Woo-bin and Han Ji-min share great chemistry, adding a bittersweet romantic angle.

Cinematography & Direction

The visuals of Jeju Island are stunning, contrasting the characters’ inner turmoil with serene landscapes. The direction ensures each story gets enough attention without feeling disjointed, though some arcs could have been explored deeper.

Music & Tone

The soundtrack complements the melancholic yet hopeful tone, enhancing emotional moments without being overly sentimental.

Critique

While the film beautifully captures human emotions, its omnibus format means some stories feel underdeveloped compared to the original drama. Pacing can be slow at times, but the strong performances keep it engaging.

Final Verdict

⭐ 8/10 – Our Blues is a poignant, well-acted slice-of-life film that tugs at the heartstrings. It may not be as fleshed out as the drama, but it’s a moving standalone experience for fans of emotional, character-driven stories.