A Dwarf Launches a Little Ball

Synopsis

"A Dwarf Launches a Little Ball" (1981), directed by Lee Doo-yong and starring Jeon Yang-ja, is a poignant South Korean drama adapted from the acclaimed novel by Cho Se-hui. The film delves into the harsh realities of an impoverished family struggling to survive amidst rapid industrialization and societal change. It portrays the life of a dwarf father and his family, emphasizing themes of social injustice, poverty, and the human spirit's resilience. Through intimate storytelling and powerful performances, the movie offers a critical reflection on the exploitation of the working class and the impact of modernization on marginalized individuals in 1970s Korea.

Cast

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  Jeon Yang-ja

  Mother

• 

  Ahn Sung-ki

  Young-soo

• 

  Geum Bo-ra

  Young-hee

• 

  Lee Hyo-jeong

  Young-ho

• 

  Kim Chu-ryeon

  Park Woo-chul

• 

  Jeon Young-sun

  Myeong-hee

Reviews

"A Dwarf Launches a Little Ball" has received a mix of critiques that recognize its cultural significance and emotional depth, while noting its challenging viewing experience. On IMDb, the film holds a rating of 6.5/10, reflecting audience appreciation of its raw and unflinching portrayal of social issues. Critics have praised Jeon Yang-ja's compelling performance and Lee Doo-yong's direction, highlighting the film's ability to evoke empathy and provoke thought. However, some reviews point out that its slow pacing and bleak narrative can be difficult for viewers not familiar with the socio-political context of the time. The film is often regarded as a seminal work in Korean cinema that thoughtfully addresses class struggles, although its niche subject matter may limit broader appeal. Despite this, its artistic value and historical importance remain widely acknowledged among film scholars and enthusiasts.

See also

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