Modern Boy (2008 Film)
Modern Boy (Korean: 모던보이; RR: Modeonboi) is a 2008 South Korean drama film written and directed by Jung Ji-woo. Set in 1937 during the Japanese occupation of Korea, the film explores themes of identity and romance against a backdrop of political tension in Gyeongseong (modern-day Seoul).
Plot
The story follows Lee Hae-myeong (Park Hae-il), a government official working for the Japanese colonial administration. His life changes when he falls in love with a mysterious woman named Jo Nan-shil (Kim Hye-soo) after seeing her perform at a cabaret. Their relationship takes a dramatic turn when Nan-shil disappears, leaving behind a package that explodes within a government building. Hae-myeong, still captivated by her, begins an investigation into her true identity, uncovering a complex web of secrets and multiple aliases.
Production
The film was originally scheduled for release in April 2008. However, the production team delayed the premiere by six months. This decision was driven by two primary factors: the saturation of the market with other films set in the 1930s and 1940s during the early part of the year, and a desire to re-shoot scenes that the filmmakers felt were rushed during initial production. The film features significant use of computer-generated imagery (CGI), most notably to recreate the historic Gyeongseong Station.
Cast
- Park Hae-il as Lee Hae-myeong
- Kim Hye-soo as Jo Nan-shil
- Kim Nam-gil as Hidaka Shinsuke
Reception and Awards
The film received recognition for its technical achievements. At the 29th Blue Dragon Film Awards in 2008, it won the award for Best Lighting (Dae-hee Kang) and a Technical Award (Insight Visual). Additionally, it received the Best Technical Achievement award at the 28th Critics Choice Awards in 2008.
