Alice in Earnestland (2015 Film)

Alice in Earnestland (Korean: 성실한 나라의 앨리스; RR: Sungsilhan Naraui Aellisu) is a 2015 South Korean dark comedy-drama film written and directed by Ahn Gooc-jin. Produced by KAFA Films, the movie explores the desperate life of a woman attempting to overcome financial hardship.

Alice in Earnestland promotional poster — Promotional poster for Alice in Earnestland.

Plot

The story follows Soo-nam, a woman who has spent her life working diligently with her hands, earning numerous certificates for her skills. Despite her efforts, her career is disrupted by technological advancements. After marrying, she and her husband take out a significant loan to purchase a home. As she struggles to repay the debt, her situation spirals into further financial instability, eventually leading to a desperate attempt to resolve her circumstances.

Production

The film was produced by Yoo Young-sik and Choi Ik-hwan under the KAFA Films banner. Principal photography commenced on November 6, 2013, and concluded on February 10, 2014.

Cast

Lee Jung-hyun as Soo-nam
Lee Hae-young as Kyu-jung
Seo Young-hwa as Kyung-sook
Lee Joon-hyuk as Hyung-suk
Dong Bang-woo as Do-chul
Lee Dae-yeon as Subsection Chief
Bae Je-ki as Detective Jo
Ji Dae-han as Detective Park

Reception and Awards

The film premiered at the Jeonju International Film Festival in May 2015 and was released theatrically in South Korea on August 13, 2015. Lee Jung-hyun received the Best Actress award at the 36th Blue Dragon Film Awards in 2015 for her performance. Additionally, Ahn Gooc-jin was awarded Best Screenplay at the 52nd BaekSang Arts Awards in 2016.