Voice of Silence (2020)

joshuarenealvarez

Voice of Silence is a South Korean
independent crime-drama written and directed
by Hong Eui-jong. This is her first feature
length film and her screenplay was selected as one of the top 12 projects at Vennice Bennale College-Cinema 2016/2017 in 2016.
The plot follows Tae-in (portrayed by
Yoo Ah-in) whom has become of my favorite actors in South Korea. He delivers an excellent performance through his facial expressions and mannerisms as a mute man who reluctantly agrees to be the caretaker of an eleven year girl surrounding a ransom scheme.
He was persuaded by his religious companion Chang-bok (portrayed by Yoo Jae-myung) after recieving orders from their boss.
These two men are morally conflicted
as they tidy up the dirty work committed
by criminal organizations in order to
make ends meet. A result of living
in impoverished environments.

This is where the film succeeds as Eui-jong attempts to humanize Tae-in and Chang-bok through an exceptional character driven-narrative. Indicating that not all men are monsters and these are individuals/victims who have been receiving the
short end of the stick.

During the course of events,
we witness the bond between Tae-in
and this young girl who develops Stockholm syndrome for her captor due to his kindness and humility towards her as he has a younger sister around her age-range who she forms
a connection with. And I believe the common theme this movie deals with is the relationships that we build with others and how they can leave a lasting impact on our lives despite them not being blood relatives. Helping us become better people in the process.
Although, not quite as original,
this is a satisfying slow-burn
with touching moments in-between.

Follow me on Instagram: @joshuarenealvarez

score 8/10

joshuarenealvarez 7 December 2020

Reprint: https://www.imdb.com/review/rw6345939/