Bhiksuni 2017
Bhiksuni (2017) transports viewers to 1984 South Korea, where director Im Kwon-taek's groundbreaking film was abruptly halted due to fierce opposition from the Buddhist community.
Director: Im Kwon-taek
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Bhiksuni (2017) about?
Bhiksuni (2017) explores the halted production of a 1984 film by director Im Kwon-taek, which faced opposition from the Buddhist community. The documentary blends restored footage with behind-the-scenes interviews, chronicling a woman's spiritual struggle and the artistic controversy surrounding the project.
Who directed Bhiksuni?
Bhiksuni was directed by the acclaimed South Korean filmmaker Im Kwon-taek, known for his profound exploration of cultural and social themes in cinema.
Who stars in Bhiksuni?
The film features reflections from key figures including actress Kim Ji-mi, cinematographer Jung Il-sung, writer Song Gil-han, and director Im Kwon-taek himself.
Is Bhiksuni (2017) worth watching?
Given its unique blend of drama and documentary, Bhiksuni offers a fascinating look into the intersection of art and religion. While its runtime is short, the film's historical and emotional depth makes it compelling for fans of Im Kwon-taek's work and those interested in South Korean cinema.
How long is Bhiksuni?
Bhiksuni (2017) has a runtime of 70 minutes.
About Bhiksuni (2017) — The lost film's fight for faith and cinema
Bhiksuni (2017) transports viewers to 1984 South Korea, where director Im Kwon-taek's groundbreaking film was abruptly halted due to fierce opposition from the Buddhist community. This partially restored documentary offers a rare glimpse into the struggle of a woman embracing Buddhism, blending raw personal agony with cinematic resilience. Featuring reflections from the cast and crew, including actress Kim Ji-mi and cinematographer Jung Il-sung, the film merges drama and documentary to chronicle both the making of the original project and the spiritual journey at its heart. The atmosphere is tense yet deeply introspective, capturing the clash between artistic vision and cultural resistance while exploring themes of faith, perseverance, and the power of storytelling.
At its core, Bhiksuni (2017) is a testament to the unfinished battles of art and belief. Through interviews with director Im Kwon-taek and writer Song Gil-han, the film peels back layers of censorship and conviction, revealing the emotional toll of a project left in limbo. The restored footage and accompanying documentary stitch together a narrative that feels both personal and political, where the pursuit of spiritual enlightenment mirrors the fight for creative freedom.