Lee Chang Dong's 'Possible Love' Explores the Depths of Human Desire

Acclaimed director Lee Chang Dong's newest project, Possible Love, marks his seventh feature film and dives into the lingering repercussions of a tragic 2009 event in South Korea. When a major Korean corporation laid off 2,600 employees, many faced devastating consequences, including suicide. Lee's film poignantly examines this somber reality through its narrative of desire and ambition.

A Reflection on Aftermath

Instead of focusing on the immediate struggles of the labor force, Possible Love delves into the complex emotional landscape that follows such upheaval. The movie opens with the biblical phrase, "Thou shall not covet," setting the tone for a story immersed in human longing as characters yearn for each other's success, relationships, and material possessions.

At the film's center is Mi-ok (Jeon Do-Yeon), a devoted wife grappling with the fallout of her husband Ho-seok's (Sul Kyung-gu) recent job loss. Their journey intertwines with Ye-ji (Cho Yeo-jeong), a documentary filmmaker, along with her affluent spouse Sang-woo (Zo In-sung). This gathering takes place amid the solemn backdrop of mourning for a colleague lost to despair.

The Ethics of Filmmaking

During a visit to New York, Lee engaged in a revealing discussion about the moral dilemmas filmmakers face. "Whenever you wield a camera, you're bestowed with a certain authority that can shift perceptions," he noted. He elaborated on the nuances of craftsmanship, reflecting on how both documentarians and narrative directors navigate their roles amidst complex social narratives.

He cited his contemporaries Bong Joon Ho and Park Chan Wook, expressing a shared understanding shaped by their experiences in modern Korean history. Lee recalled a time when Bong struggled with how to capture a mother's pain authentically in his film Mother, highlighting the ethical considerations in portraying the emotional depths of others.

Capturing Personal Stories

The character of Ye-ji embodies a deeper examination of the filmmaker’s role in documenting personal stories. While she possesses a strong desire to record her subjects' experiences, Lee emphasizes that filmmakers tread a fine line, bound to their own evolving status. "They may originate from humble beginnings, but their current positions reshape the narratives they choose to tell," he shared.

This theme resonates throughout Possible Love, where Mi-ok photographs moments of her family's struggles, hoping to bring light to her husband's hidden trauma through the lens. Each character holds distinct motives regarding the camera, leading to a powerful commentary on the nature of storytelling.

Collaborative Dynamics

Integral to the film's development was Lee's collaboration with screenwriter Oh Jung-mi, whom he met at the Korea National University of Arts. "Oh is a unique talent, exceptional among already gifted peers," Lee expressed. Their partnership is characterized by Oh's ability to refresh Lee’s creative processes, challenging his perspectives and provoking thought.

Although their collaboration can lead to numerous scrapped projects, Lee values Oh's enduring patience and commitment. He considers himself fortunate to work alongside her and other talented individuals passionate about impact through their art.

Vision for Social Change

As Possible Love prepares for its release, including availability on Netflix, Lee underscores the importance of confronting labor issues within the film's narrative. By balancing dramatic storytelling with documentary elements, he seeks to encapsulate the collective trauma of displaced workers and stimulate critical discussion.

Lee firmly believes that cinema's role extends beyond entertainment; it has the power to provoke thought and inspire change. “We carry the responsibility of sparking conversations through our narratives,” he asserts. “As storytellers, we can make small strides toward altering society for the better.”

Possible Love premiered in select U.S. theaters on October 23 and will be available for worldwide streaming on Netflix starting November 6, inviting audiences to engage with its compelling themes and ethical explorations.