Burning (2018 Film)

Burning (Korean: 버닝; RR: Beoning) is a 2018 South Korean mystery drama film directed by Lee Chang-dong. The screenplay, written by Lee and Oh Jung-mi, is based on the short story Barn Burning (Naya wo Yaku) by Japanese author Haruki Murakami, which was originally published in the 1984 collection Hotaru.

Plot

The story follows Jong-soo, an aspiring writer working part-time as a delivery man. He encounters Hae-mi, a childhood friend from his rural hometown. Before traveling to Africa, Hae-mi asks Jong-soo to care for her cat. Upon her return, she introduces Jong-soo to Ben, a wealthy and enigmatic man she met during her travels. The narrative centers on the shifting dynamics between the three characters and Ben's unsettling confession regarding his unusual hobby.

Production

The film was directed by Lee Chang-dong and produced by Ok Kwang-hee, Lee Joon-dong, and Lee Chang-dong. Cinematography was handled by Hong Kyung-pyo. Principal photography commenced on September 11, 2017, and concluded on January 30, 2018. The role of Ben was initially offered to actor Gang Dong-won, who declined the part.

Cast

• Yoo Ah-in as Jong-soo
• Steven Yeun as Ben
• Jeon Jong-seo as Hae-mi

Release and Reception

Burning held its world premiere on May 16, 2018, at the Cannes Film Festival, where it competed in the main competition section. It was released theatrically in South Korea on May 17, 2018. The film received critical recognition, including the Art Award for cinematographer Hong Kyung-pyo at the 55th Baeksang Arts Awards and Best Film at the 55th Daejong Film Awards.