CHUNHYANG Asian New Classics

Im Kwon Taek is Korea’s greatest filmmaker, and his latest is yet another triumph in an impressive filmography.

Mongryong, the privileged son of a provincial governor, falls in love with Chunhyang, the daughter of a former courtesan, who is known for her beauty and dignity. They marry in secret. When he has to leave for Seoul, Mongryong promises a quick return. But as time passes, a new and cruel governor arrives. Hearing of Chunhyang’s beauty, he demands she be his mistress. Furious when Chunhyang refuses him, the governor has her beaten a[ld sentenced to death. Her only hope is the promise that Mongryong made to return.

Master filmmaker Im Kwon Taek sumptuously recreates this Korean “Romeo and Juliet” classic, while brilliantly framing the story within the performance of a traditional “pansori” singer appearing before a modern-day audience.