Chronicle of a Blood Merchant (2015 Film)
Chronicle of a Blood Merchant is a 2015 South Korean drama film directed by Ha Jung-woo, who also stars in the lead role. The film is an adaptation of the 1995 Chinese novel of the same name by author Yu Hua.
Plot
Set in post-war South Korea in 1953, the story follows Heo Sam-gwan, a man working on a construction site. In his village, men often sell their blood to earn money and demonstrate their health, a practice that allows them to afford marriage. Heo Sam-gwan sets his sights on Heo Ok-ran, considered the most beautiful woman in the village, despite her existing relationship with another man. Heo Sam-gwan eventually secures the funds to marry her through blood selling. Eleven years later, the couple faces a crisis when rumors circulate questioning the paternity of their eldest son.
Production
The film was directed by Ha Jung-woo, with a screenplay adapted by Kim Joo-ho, Ha Jung-woo, Park Soo-jin, and Yoon Jong-bin. The first script reading was held on May 22, 2014. Principal photography commenced on June 7, 2014, and concluded on September 28, 2014. Filming locations included Suwon, Suncheon, and Hapcheon in South Korea.
Cast
The film features an ensemble cast including:
- Ha Jung-woo as Heo Sam-gwan
- Ha Ji-won as Heo Ok-ran
- Nam Da-reum as Heo Il-rak
- No Kang-min as Heo Yi-rak
- Jun Hyun-suk as Heo Sam-rak
Release and Reception
Chronicle of a Blood Merchant was released in South Korea on January 15, 2015, by distributor Next Entertainment World. The film was later featured at the 2016 Okinawa International Movie Festival.