Huh Jin-ho's 'Assassins' confronts the dark history of 1970s Korea

Huh Jin-ho reflects on a pivotal historical event

Huh Jin-ho’s latest film, Assassins, draws inspiration from the assassination attempt on former first lady Yuk Yong-soo, a tragedy that resonated throughout Korea. The film opens on September 23 and follows a group of fictional characters, including journalist Chaek-koo, played by Yoo Hae-jin, as they investigate the events surrounding the incident that shocked the nation.

In a recent interview at a café in Jongno, Seoul, Huh shared his memories of the event, which occurred when he was in the fifth grade. "I can still recall the collective sorrow that gripped the country," he said, noting that the incident left a profound mark on his childhood. Huh emphasized that this film is not only a mystery but a commentary on the oppressive atmosphere of the 1970s.

Exploring themes of truth and violence

The film cleverly weaves together layers of intrigue and societal issues, focusing on the implications of a politically charged environment. Huh aims to highlight the oppressive violence that characterized the era, stating, "Many people lived in fear during those times, where even a simple night out could lead to arrest." He also posed a philosophical question central to the film's narrative: "What is truth?" This inquiry resonates today, suggesting that discerning truth remains a vital concern, especially in the face of bias shaped by social affiliations.

Huh noted, "This story emerges from the unresolved questions and limitations found in existing facts, and I wanted to bring forth the voices of those who lived passionately during such difficult times." His intention is to depict the relentless struggle for truth amid societal chaos, fostering a conversation about the past and its relevance today.

A new direction in filmmaking

With Assassins, Huh Jin-ho steps outside his traditional style of restrained emotion seen in earlier works like Christmas in August and Spring Days. Instead, he embraces a more visceral storytelling approach, emphasizing the emotional intensity of characters involved in pressuring situations. One notable scene features journalists confronting external pressures, exhibiting a raw energy that contrasts with Huh's previous directives.

He remarked on the challenge of conveying such intensity: "It was somewhat unsettling and uncomfortable for me, as I've long favored restraint. This project taught me to engage closer with the characters and their emotions." Alongside the lead cast, renowned actors such as Jung Woo-sung and Park Jung-min also make impactful appearances, enhancing the film with their strong screen presence.

A seasoned director's evolving vision

As Huh marks 28 years since his feature debut, he reflects on his journey and the evolving nature of his storytelling. He observed a striking trend among his contemporaries, noting that few remain active in the industry after so many years. Ultimately, he expressed his desire to continue making films not strictly for their thematic significance but for the joy of storytelling itself. "I want to explore more everyday stories, infused with my perspective on the world," he stated.

Assassins promises to be a nuanced exploration of both a specific historical moment and the universal quest for truth, setting the stage for a gripping cinematic experience that encourages audiences to reflect on their own understandings of history.

As the release date approaches, anticipation is building for what many hope will be a landmark film in the context of Korean cinema.