Next Sohee

"Next Sohee" is a poignant and socially conscious film that quietly builds emotional weight as it unfolds. It explores harsh realities faced by young people entering the workforce, and the pressure and neglect that can lead to devastating consequences.

The film is split into two parts, and while the first half focuses on the titular character and her struggles, the second half shifts perspective in a way that feels both jarring and effective. This narrative structure adds depth, even if it may not resonate equally with everyone.

Visually, the movie is restrained but purposeful, and the performances-especially by Kim Si-eun as Sohee-are subtle yet impactful. There's a lingering sadness throughout the film that stays with you, though at times the pacing can feel a bit slow or stretched.

"Next Sohee" doesn't offer easy resolutions, but it handles its themes with sensitivity and care. It's a solid film that's not always easy to watch, but certainly worth it.

Jung's attempt to expose South Korea's externship program for the self-serving and labor-exploiting enterprise that it is, is a noble one; and while I'm sure she invested a great amount of emotion and effort into the research and making of this film, for the greater part of its two-hour-plus runtime, Next Sohee fails to create a compelling appeal.

The first half is bogged down by its setting, which depicts the sole-sucking listlessness of a call center with incredible authenticity. A mid point climax then severs the film in halves, forcing itself to retrace the arduous steps taken in the first hour, as a detective goes to all the places we've already been and asks all the questions we already know the answers to.

Korean director once again used concise and powerful shots to criticize a certain kind of difficult-to-solve structural defect in society.

The first half of the film is a bit tedious, but the story progresses gradually and vividly reflects common workplace culture. The second half of the film turns sharply, and the film begins to question relevant departments sharply. The shots in this section are powerful and inspiring. Interestingly, when you look back at it, all kinds of trivial descriptions in the first half are indispensable and extremely vivid. The whole movie is seamless and neat. There are no superfluous scenes, and each character is designed appropriately and full of details.

Someone can use this as a topic to expose the universality of corporate trampling on labor laws, which is a brave and admirable behavior in East Asia where governments often fail to protect workers' rights. I am very pleased with this.

South Korea is one of the only country that managed to make the switch from military dictatorship to democracy within a few decades. Scientists claim this transition happened so fast because of civil disobedience and massive protests in reaction to an unjust government.

Next Soohee is a film about injustice and the protagonists react intensely emotional to it, thereby keeping the Korean tradition alive. The parody on the classic 'Keep calm and carry on' in the title of this review, should be seen as a tribute to South Korean resilience.

After Broker, Doona Bae is brilliant again as a police detective. This role fits so well to her personal appearance. I would love to watch multiple seasons of a crime series with her in the leading role.

July Jung's "Next Sohee" (2022) delivers a profoundly impactful and emotionally resonant social drama, immersing viewers in the tragic realities of corporate exploitation and systemic indifference. The film excels in its unflinching portrayal of a young woman's struggle, building a narrative that is both meticulously detailed and deeply heartbreaking. Kim Si-eun's performance as Sohee is raw and captivating, while Bae Doona anchors the second half with a powerful, empathetic portrayal of a detective seeking justice. Its strength lies in its courageous exploration of a critical societal issue, feeling authentic and contributing significantly to a vital conversation. Instead of a mere procedural, it offers a searing, unforgettable cinematic experience that demands attention and empathy.

Is it worth watching? Absolutely. "Next Sohee" is a must-watch for those who appreciate powerful, thought-provoking cinema that tackles important social issues with honesty and emotional depth. It's a truly memorable and essential film.