Lee Isaac Chung’s heartwarming Minari is an award-winning, semi-autobiographical drama that paints a beguiling portrait of a Korean American family weathering all of life’s joys and sorrows.
In the 1980s, Jacob (Steven Yeun) and Monica (Yeri Han) arrive in rural Arkansas determined to make a fresh start for their family. The dream is to grow Korean vegetables for the other immigrant families. The reality is a dilapidated trailer in a muddy field and the daily grind of paid work at the local chicken hatchery. They also worry over the future of their son Daniel (Alan S Kim) who has a heart murmur. The arrival of Monica’s mischievous mother Soon-ja (a scene-stealing Youn Yuh-jung) to help with childcare adds further tensions to the mix. Named after a Korean herb, similar to watercress, Minari has the authentic taste of those precious little moments that make up our daily lives. A beautiful, uplifting film told with charm, humour and a fond regard for everyday struggles. GFF21