25 August 2014

Oasis (South Korea, 2002)

Jong-du, a young man just out of prison for manslaughter, is a social misfit. When released, he calls on the family of the victim; they send him away, but not before he has seen Gong-ju, a young woman disabled severely by cerebral palsy. Both are abused by their families, and both are used by them as well. Although their relationship begins with Jong-du's criminal behavior, a friendship develops. They talk of favorite things; they go out; in late night phone calls, he helps her past her fears of the dark. Is there a place in the world for these two inarticulate people?

Oasis features so strong performances that it can make you very uncomfortable watching it, and it has a bunch of scenes where the atmosphere is incredibly awkward. It's far from being a feelgood-movie, with its dark story and broken characters. It tackles subjects such as prejudice and selfishness, but also romance between those who stand outside the normal society. 

A tough watch from time to time, but a film that feels very genuine and real in its way of portraying love in a reality that's far from perfect.


Genre: Drama

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