Hanji (2011 Film)
Hanji (Korean: 달빛 길어올리기; RR: Dalbit Kileoolrigi) is a 2011 South Korean drama film directed by Im Kwon-taek. The film explores the cultural significance of hanji, the traditional handmade paper of Korea, through the narrative of a local government official tasked with a restoration project.
Plot
The story follows Pil-yong (played by Park Joong-hoon), a low-ranking public official in Jeonju. His personal life is marked by the care of his wife, Hyo-kyung (Ye Ji-won), who suffers from the long-term effects of a cerebral infarction. Seeking a promotion to a higher administrative grade before his retirement, Pil-yong transfers to a department focused on the promotion of hanji.
His professional life intersects with Ji-won (Kang Soo-yeon), a documentary filmmaker who is researching the traditional craft. Initially at odds, the two eventually collaborate on a project to restore a copy of the Annals of the Joseon Dynasty using authentic, traditionally crafted hanji. As Pil-yong becomes deeply committed to the restoration, his obsession begins to affect his relationship with his wife and the stability of the project itself.
Production and Release
Directed by veteran filmmaker Im Kwon-taek, the film was released in South Korea on March 17, 2011. It has a runtime of 118 minutes. The production highlights the meticulous process of papermaking, serving as both a narrative drama and a tribute to Korean cultural heritage.
Film Festival Screenings
The film was featured at several major South Korean film festivals in 2011, including:
- 12th Jeonju International Film Festival (Cinemascape: Korean Cinema Showcase)
- 5th Cinema Digital Seoul Film Festival (Perspective)
- 16th Busan International Film Festival (Korean Cinema Today: Panorama)