Top 10 Korean Movies Of 2021
In 2021, the Korean film industry showcased a diverse range of movies, captivating audiences with compelling narratives and outstanding performances. Here is a list of the top 10 Korean movies from that year, each offering a unique cinematic experience:
1. Escape from Mogadishu
Topping our list is "Escape from Mogadishu," an action-packed film inspired by real events during the Somali Civil War in 1990. South Korean and North Korean diplomats join forces to flee the conflict, making it both the highest-grossing South Korean movie of 2021 and South Korea's submission for the 2022 Oscars.
2. Book of Fish
"Book of Fish" explores an odd bond that exists between an exiled scholar & an ambitious fisherman from a small fishing town during the Joseon era. Director Lee Joon-ik skillfully explores themes of Confucianism versus Western thought, making it a thoughtful and visually captivating experience.
3. Miracle: Letters to the President
Set in the 1980s, "Miracle: Letters to the President" revolves around a young man's quest to establish a train station in an isolated village. This heartwarming film, featuring Im Yoon-ah from the K-pop group SNSD, strikes a balance between romance and comedy while offering a nostalgic glimpse into the past.
4. Night in Paradise
"Night in Paradise" explores the story of a gangster enforcer named Tae-goo, exiled to Jeju Island, who forms an unexpected bond with a young woman named Jae-yeon. Director Park Hoon-jung crafts a visually stunning gangster revenge film, featuring stylish cinematography and intense action sequences.
5. Sinkhole
A hilarious take on the challenges of homeownership, "Sinkhole" follows an office worker whose new house falls into a massive sinkhole. Director Kim Ji-hoon skillfully blends disaster and comedy elements, offering a satirical commentary on housing prices in Seoul.
6. Mission: Possible
"Mission: Possible" combines fun and action, featuring a secret agent who teams up with a mistaken-identity detective to thwart an arms smuggling operation. Lead actors Lee Sun-bin and Kim Young-kwang deliver excellent performances, making this movie a delightful and entertaining watch.
7. On the Line
In "On the Line," a former detective seeks revenge against phone scammers who target him and his colleagues. Despite the familiar revenge theme, the film's fast-paced plot and focus on phone scams add a unique twist, making it a gripping and engaging thriller.
8. Waiting for Rain
"Waiting for Rain" tells the heartfelt story of Young-ho and So-hee, who develop a connection through handwritten letters despite being miles apart. This film stands out in the romance genre, emphasizing the evolution of their relationship over time and distance, evoking nostalgia and genuine emotional depth.
9. Spiritwalker
"Spiritwalker" explores the life of a man who wakes up in a new body every twelve hours, forced to rediscover his identity. With dynamic action sequences and a touch of comedy, this fantasy-action film captivated audiences, earning praise for its unique storyline and engaging performances.
10. Hard Hit
"Hard Hit" follows the gripping tale of a bank head in Busan who receives a restricted phone call, setting off a thrilling chain of events. With its intense atmosphere, pumping background music, and high-stakes narrative, "Hard Hit" successfully captivated viewers, making it a standout thriller of 2021.
These films represent the best of Korean cinema in 2021, showcasing the industry's creativity, diversity, and storytelling prowess. Whether you enjoy action, romance, comedy, or drama, there is something for every movie enthusiast in this list.