Go Go 70s (2008 Film)

Go Go 70s (Korean: 고고70) is a 2008 South Korean musical drama film directed and written by Choi Ho. Set against the backdrop of the 1970s, a period characterized by strict military rule and a burgeoning youth culture, the film follows the rise and struggles of a rock band named The Devils.

Plot

The story centers on Sang-Kyu (played by Cho Seung-Woo), a singer, and Man-Sik (played by Cha Seung-Woo), a guitarist. After performing in clubs near a U.S. military base, they form the six-member rock group, The Devils. The band travels to Seoul to participate in a music competition, where their energetic and unconventional performance leaves a lasting impression. The group eventually finds success performing at the go-go dance club, Nirvana. Alongside them, a woman named Mimi (played by Shin Min-A) rises to prominence as a fashion icon and dancer, though the group's period of success is eventually challenged by the social and political climate of the era.

Production

To prepare for his role as the lead singer Sang-Kyu, actor Cho Seung-Woo learned to play the guitar and practiced with a professional band. He also spent time living in the Hongdae area of Seoul, a district known for its active indie music scene, to better understand the cultural context of the era.

Reception and Awards

The film was screened at several international events, including the 2009 New York Asian Film Festival and the 2009 Fantasia Film Festival. It received recognition for its musical elements and performances, including the Best Music award at the 2008 Blue Dragon Film Awards for composer Bang Jun-seok, and a Best New Actor award for Cha Seung-Woo at the 2009 Golden Cinematography Awards.