I could very much relate to the central character and his dispositions in Chang-dong Lee's Burning who becomes obsessed with his mysterious childhood friend and her even more mysterious new acquaintance who does not seem to be who he claims to be. Director Lee's slow-burning concoction (pun unintended) is a parable of sorts that tries to make its audience dive into the mind of the characters that are honest and dishonest at the same time. The build-up of the thriller drama is a pleasure to watch supported by a dreamy, nonchalant score and some great shots of countryside South Korea. And even better experience is the climax which will take some analysis on your part for you to make complete sense of it. And when you do make sense of it, you will find yourself sitting in your chair numb and unable to move. Burning is a silent attack on the philosophy of life and it's a pleasure best served in a 150-minute container. But not everyone will agree. TN.
