Land of Sorrow

Synopsis

Land of Sorrow (서산개척단) is a 2018 South Korean historical drama set during a turbulent era. The film centers on the life of Park Chung-hee and the pioneering community that faces hardships and political upheaval in their quest for stability and progress. Through intimate storytelling, the movie explores themes of resilience, sacrifice, and the complexities of leadership during trying times. Blending personal and political narratives, Land of Sorrow offers a poignant portrayal of how ordinary people grapple with extraordinary circumstances, revealing the human cost behind historic events.

Cast

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  Park Chung-hee

  Self (archive footage)

Reviews

Land of Sorrow received a mix of reactions from critics and audiences alike. On Rotten Tomatoes, the film holds a moderate rating, with praise often directed at its authentic depiction of historical settings and compelling performances, especially the portrayal of Park Chung-hee. Some reviewers noted that the movie's deliberate pacing allows for deep emotional engagement, while others felt it occasionally lacked narrative momentum. IMDb users rated the film around 6.8/10, appreciating its earnest storytelling but pointing out moments where the plot could be more cohesive. Metacritic scores reflected a similar sentiment, with critics highlighting the film's strong cinematography and production design, but mentioning that it might not appeal to viewers seeking a fast-paced or heavily dramatized biopic. Overall, the consensus suggests Land of Sorrow is a thoughtful and respectful historical drama that resonates more with viewers interested in character-driven stories than mainstream commercial cinema.

See also

Ride Along 2

Pieces of a Woman

The Man Who Killed Hitler and Then the Bigfoot

The Front Runner