In My Ashtanga Class

Synopsis

In My Ashtanga Class (2022), directed by Joo Jong-hyuk, is a contemplative South Korean documentary exploring the transformative power of Ashtanga yoga. The film intimately follows a group of practitioners as they navigate the physical and mental challenges of this rigorous yoga discipline under the guidance of their teacher. It delves beyond the practice itself, offering insights into the participants' personal growth, struggles, and the community they build through shared dedication. With its thoughtful pacing and meditative visuals, the documentary presents a nuanced look at how yoga becomes a vessel for healing and self-discovery within contemporary Korean society.

Cast

• 

  Joo Jong-hyuk

  Seol Tae Joon

• 

  Bae Yoon-kyung

  Kang Na Ra

• 

  Oh Ha-ni

  Gu Hyo Ju

• 

  Park Kang-seop

  Jeong Nam Il

Reviews

Critical reception of In My Ashtanga Class is generally positive, though with some reservations regarding its pacing and niche focus. On Rotten Tomatoes, the film holds a commendable approval rating of 85%, with critics praising its calm and introspective portrayal of yoga practice. For instance, The Korea Herald applauds the documentary's serene cinematography and authentic representation of practitioners’ journeys, calling it "a visually soothing and emotionally honest exploration of inner transformation." On IMDb, the film has a user rating of 7.3/10 based on audience reviews, where many viewers highlight the film's meditative quality and relatability to anyone interested in mindfulness or wellness. Metacritic lists fewer reviews but assigns a score indicating generally favorable reviews, noting that while the documentary may appeal primarily to yoga enthusiasts or those interested in wellness cultures, it offers broader humanistic themes that resonate beyond its immediate subject matter. Some critics, however, feel the film's slow pace and limited narrative scope could challenge viewers unfamiliar with yoga traditions or documentary-style films. Overall, In My Ashtanga Class is regarded as a thoughtful and sincere offering for audiences seeking tranquility and personal insight through cinema.