Manok

Supporting film: HY HEART IS GOING TO EXPLODE, Jung Inhyuk, South Korea 2023, 19 min, OmeU

MANOK is director Lee Yujing's first feature film – a warm-hearted, totally cheeky, yet slightly schmaltzy comedy with a slight leaning towards classic Korean drama, set in the South Korean hinterland. In a world characterised by conservatism, homophobia and religious zeal, anti-discrimination laws are still lacking today – and this is precisely where the wild grotesque that follows unfolds, breathing community with every fibre (wonderful cast!!): Instead of focusing on the conflicts, the film focuses on cohesion and mutual support within the LGBTQ+ community. At the centre is Manok, the owner of a lesbian bar who returns to her hometown – and decides on the spur of the moment to run against her ex-partner in the mayoral election. What begins as an act of rebellion becomes a touching story about intergenerational solidarity, chosen family and the power to stand up for one another. MANOK tells with humour and heart what community can mean.