Planet of Snail 2012
Distributed by Cinema Guild, 115 West 30th Street, Suite 800, New York, NY 10001; 212-685-6242
Produced by Kim Minchul & Gary Kam
Directed by Yi Seungjun
DVD, color, 87 min., Korean with English subtitles
Jr. High - General Adult
Biography, Disability Studies, Language, Writing
Date Entered: 10/11/2012
Reviewed by Kathleen Spring, Nicholson Library, Linfield College, McMinnville, ORA documentary film occasionally has the power to transport the viewer so completely into the world of its subject that the viewer emerges changed by the experience. Planet of Snail, in its intimate portrait of a Korean marriage, is just such a film. Cho Young-Chan and Soon-Ho live a life very different from most couples. Cho Young-Chan lost most of his hearing and sight at a young age, and his disabilities force him to communicate with people through a combination of finger Braille, touch, and speech. Director Yi Seungjun’s beautifully shot film traces the obstacles inherent in everyday activities, such as changing a light bulb or exercising, while simultaneously sharing the tremendous love story of Cho Young-Chan and Soon-Ho. Through voiceovers of his writings, viewers glimpse the inner turmoil Cho Young-Chan endures as he continues to navigate his way through a world that he cannot see or hear. The soundtrack adds to the film, approximating at times what it would be like to move through the world as Cho Young-Chan does. An appropriate film for courses in disability and deaf studies, language, psychology, or writing, this film should also appeal to non-academic audiences with an interest in the nature of human relationships.
Awards:
- Winner, Best Documentary, International Film Festival Amsterdam
- Winner, Sterling Award for Best World Feature, SilverDocs Film Festival