[zegalba]

Cho Gi-Seok: 'Bad Dream' (2023)

[stillblu3]

[REVIEW] Look Back - A Oneshot by Tatsuki Fujimoto

"Look Back" stands out as one of the greatest one-shots I've ever come across. Created by Tatsuki Fujimoto, known for "Chainsaw Man," it brings depth to the Shounen Jump style.

With 145 pages, most of which lack dialogue, Fujimoto skillfully conveys complex emotions through art alone. The story explores the relationship between an aspiring comedy manga artist and an antisocial artist.

It's one of those pieces that is best understood firsthand, so I'd recommend reading it before proceeding with my review.

Characters

Unlike most manga, this one doesn't have a main character who stands out. Instead, it shows that every character is equally important to the story. [Spoiler] Kyomoto, who tragically dies, remains present for both Fujino and the readers, as she inspires Fujino to continue working on her manga series despite her grief over her friend's death. 

Kyomoto Fujino

Snippets from Fujino (left) and Kyomoto's (right) comic submissions to the school newspaper, highlighting their differing artistic talents and styles throughout various parts of the manga.

The manga starts by introducing Fujino, a cocky and arrogant fourth grader who believes she's the greatest artist. Fujino shares her comic strip in the school newspaper, a funny comic loved by the class. They suggest she should become a manga artist, but Fujino refuses, wanting to be an athlete instead.

Fujino's decisions take a turn when Kyomoto is introduced, an antisocial who recluses at home to work on her artwork. Fujino cockily wonders how someone who is afraid to come to school could draw well. But Upon observing her work, the class begins to call Fujino's work average, and as a result, this infuriates Fujino. Thus, she begins to dedicatedly work on her artwork, neglecting her academic duties.

Fujimoto portrays the process of Fujino's dedication through various montage panels. Through the montage we see Fujino practicing her drawing at home, school, library, park and many other places, along with buying various different guide books and watching tutorials to help teach her.

Fujino, feeling disheartened by her friends' and sister's advice to focus on schoolwork and by Kyomoto's superior art despite her own year-long dedication, ultimately gives up on her manga aspirations. Her decision seems to bring a tear to her eye, reflecting the pain it causes her, but she pushes aside this emotion to spend time with her friends and family—until she meets Kyomoto.

Discouragements Fujino receives from her friends and her sister.

The First Encounter Between Fujino and Kyomoto:

The initial encounter between Fujino and Kyomoto symbolizes the sharp contrast between their personalities. Fujino stands in the light while Kyomoto remains in the shade of her house, illustrating their differing life situations, with Fujino being outgoing and Kyomoto more introverted.

As Kyomoto nervously confesses to being a fan of Fujino's, the latter reacts dramatically. Fujimoto emphasizes her reaction by bathing Fujino's face in light, symbolizing the significance or value of Kyomoto's confession as a source of inspiration for Fujino, who regains her spark and passion to pursue drawing manga.

Recurring Panel and its Significance:

Fujimoto effectively uses the concept of montage to depict the passage of time. He does this by showing different panels of Fujino sitting at her desk, working on her manga. This mirrors the cover of the manga, creating a connection between the beginning and the end of the story.

Identification with Fujino:

When I read Look Back, I saw parts of myself mirrored in Fujino's character. Her dreams and determination resonated with me, especially when faced with criticism from her peers and family. It reminded me of my own childhood, where I spent countless hours refining my art skills and carrying my sketchbook everywhere I went. I often faced negative and sarcastic comments from classmates and teachers who were worried about my future if I kept drawing.

Fujino's shift from seeking validation to finding value in the creative process parallels my own journey. Initially, I pursued art for validation, but over time, I grew to appreciate the process itself. Similarly, I found inspiration in a friend, much like Fujino found hers in Kyomoto.

Ending Note:

Look Back appears to reflect Fujimoto's experience as a manga artist primarily through Fujino's character. Initially, Fujino writes manga to gain praise and outdo a rival. However, her perspective shifts as she begins to prioritize the experience of the readers, influenced by Kyomoto.

The manga serves as a reminder to reflect on our experiences, even if they provoke negative emotions such as anger or sadness. Despite how brief it is, this manga conveys significant messages about the long-term impact we can have on others, even if it appears fleeting. While it may not always be easy to digest, it is a worthwhile read with application to specific situations and mindsets.

Look Back is one of the few manga that I will remember for years due to its impact and relatability. It reflects my own experience as a creative person and the challenges that come with it.

The manga is being adapted into an anime film scheduled to premiere in Japanese theaters on June 28th!! :D

[stillblu3]

A Tribute to Cho Gi Seok

Having used Cho Gi Seok in numerous presentations and assignments, I believe it is a crime not to have written a blog post about him. So here's my appreciation to my favorite photographer and muse:

Admiration at First Sight

Nostalgia #2, Cho Gi Seok, 2020

While browsing Pinterest, I came across a photo of a girl in a school uniform. She was adorned with a series of small fish or shark figurines that seemed to flow over her head, across her face, and towards her shoulder. It was one of those photographs that gave me a "aha" moment as I stared at it for hours, amazed by the idea of combining a human figure with unconventional prop, unlike the typical table or still life objects seen in other photographs and paintings. I found myself wondering whether these fish were computer-generated, hand-drawn or crafted. Another intriguing aspect was how the girl was framed, with her face seemingly divided or "sliced" into two by the diagonal flow of the fish, revealing only one of her eyes and her mouth. Despite its simplicity, with a plain white background, the photo exuded a sense of movement and life. This was my initial encounter with Cho Gi Seok's work, and it sparked a deep sense of inspiration and admiration within me.

Cho Gi Seok: Biography

Cho Gi Seok, Photographer

"I think flowers are the easiest thing to find that anyone around us can think of as beautiful, It’s like taking a portrait for me. By transforming and recombining them, I try to express my own thoughts through them.” 

Born in 1992, the South Korean photographer aspired to be an art director from a young age. Before pursuing photography, he had experience with graphic and set design, which he incorporates into his work and techniques. His photographs depict abstract themes, combining human figures with unusual props. He grew up in an internet generation, so he draws inspiration from technology and its advancements, which sets his work apart from the rest. 

Gi Seok's Visual Archive: My Favorite Collections

The following are my interpretations of some of my favorite collections and photographs. These are not entirely accurate to the photographers' intentions, but rather my own.

Not Alone, Cho Gi Seok, 2021

This collection of images portrays the sensation of feeling trapped or targeted by judgment or bullying during high school. The subject, positioned centrally, is accentuated by accusatory fingers or phones aimed at the subject. The close-ups and portrait-style shots echo the traditional yearbook photos, and the attire reminiscent of school uniforms adds to the overall theme. The flower prop serves as a symbol of innocence or vulnerability.

The title of the collection therefore imply a dark meaning, indicating that the subject is "not alone" but rather accompanied by dominating forces, accusations, and intimidation. It depicts the isolation experienced when one deviates from societal norms or stands out as different from others.

Alone, Cho Gi Seok, 2022

In contrast to the previous photographs titled "Not Alone", these photographs depict the relationship within a society. Cho utilizes technology as props to symbolize our connection to our phones or digital devices. Despite being closely positioned within the composition, each subject gazes in different directions, mirroring the way individuals search for cellular signals or internet. In instances where Cho omits props, he maintains consistency with his concept and theme through lighting techniques. For instance, in the second photograph, where the heads of the individuals are framed diagonally, a vibrant blue light illuminates them, resembling the glow of phone screens or theater displays that illuminates our faces.

These photographs not only convey their message visually but also capture the sensation of being without a smartphone in a sea of people who possess one.

Both of these collections, in my view, are not only semiotically rich but also visually engaging as photographs. Before I conclude my interpretation, I want to express my appreciation for my favorite collection:

Different, Cho Gi Seok, 2023

These series of photographs hold a special place for me; I find myself revisiting them time and again on Cho's Instagram. The way Cho utilizes props, framing, composition, and colors never fails to captivate me and serves as a source of inspiration. Cho skillfully conveys the notion of being different, drawing parallels with Franz Kafka's depiction of dehumanization and alienation through the symbolism of the bug in "The Metamorphosis." This connection underscores the theme of feeling looked down upon and met with disgust. The muted grays and greens evoke feelings associated with anxiety or dysmorphia, further enhanced by the use of paper-cut eyes that portray the sense of being judged and scrutinized. I've added it to my to-do list to capture a series of photos resembling Cho's "Different" collection, using his ideas and techniques.

Final Thoughts:

Cho Gi Seok truly stands out in a sea of photographers by skillfully capturing complex emotions and exploring unconventional, abstract themes. His work contributes to building a valuable visual library for both amateurs and beginners. While his style may not resonate with everyone, there's much to learn and appreciate from his captivating images.

[stillblu3]

A Thorough Analysis of Ai Yazawa's NANA

"The dreams we are chasing and the reality that is chasing us are always parallel; they never meet."

Nana is a Japanese manga series written and illustrated by Ai Yazawa. The story set in Tokyo, revolves around two 20 year-old women with the same given name - "Nana".

Nana Komatsu Nana Osaki

Nana Osaki, an independent, ambitious, and outspoken woman, meets a naive, dependent, and talkative Nana Komatsu (often referred to as Hachi) when she moves to Tokyo after turning twenty. Although they are completely opposite in terms of character and personality, they share a common goal: to discover themselves and the true meaning of love and happiness. 

Storytelling and Compelling Characters

At its core, "Nana" encompasses dynamics of human relationships, exploring themes such as identity, sacrifice, and aspirations or dreams. What sets it apart from other shoujo manga or anime is the complexity of each character in the story. As a 13-year-old, I was surprised by the depth of humanity portrayed in the characters. Yazawa presented the audience with a set of characters navigating difficult situations with utmost honesty, avoiding any romanticized portrayal which makes it relatable for young adults going through their own transformations.

Art Style

Aside from the story itself, Ai Yazawa skillfully renders emotions through subtle facial expressions and body language allowing readers to connect with the characters on an emotional basis, adding narrative depth. Her precise linework, expressive character designs, and intricate attention to details makes her work standout and enough reason to be a source of inspiration for others (including myself).

Yazawa seeks inspiration through a variety of sources, including fashion, music and pop culture. She adorns her characters with outfits and hairstyles, reflecting the trends and subcultures of contemporary Japanese society. She draws inspiration from her own life experiences and observations, reflecting her love for music, through depictions of concerts, recording studios and backstage interactions.

Fashion in Nana: Vivienne Westwood

The distinct personalities of Nana Osaki and Nana Komatsu shine through their contrasting clothing styles: one punk and edgy, the other casual and feminine. It is evident that fashion plays an important secondary role in the stylistic choices. Despite dropping out of fashion school, Yazawa draws on her industry knowledge to skillfully convey her characters' emotions through clothing in her work.

Nana Osaki wearing Vivienne Westwood's "Armour Ring"

Nana is heavily influenced by Vivienne Westwood. The logo, also known as The Orb of Vivienne Westwood, is a combination of Saturn's rings and the sovereign orb of the English monarchy, and is one of the brand's most memorable elements. The symbol of Nana Osaki's rebellious nature is evident throughout "Nana," notably in the first episode where she wears the "Armour Ring." This accessory reflects her desire for protection from the challenges of the external world, setting the tone for her character's personality.

Nana Osaki wearing Vivienne Westwood Fall 1994 

Nana Osaki wearing Vivienne Westwood's 'Super Elevated Gillie'

Nana Osaki's wardrobe is predominantly filled with pieces from Vivienne Westwood, showcasing her strong connection to the punk community. She often reuses and styles these pieces in various iconic ways, serving as an inspiration for self-expression through fashion choices.

Ren Honjo: An Imitation of Sid from Sex Pistol

Ren Honjo and Nana Osaki

Sid Vicious and Nancy Spungen

Nana Osaki and Ren Honjo are often compared to the infamous couple Sid Vicious from Sex Pistols and Nancy Spungen. Ren's intense love for Nana mirrors Sid's obsession with Nancy. Additionally, Ren's fashion choices, such as his leather jacket and padlock necklaces, are reminiscent of Sid's style, as Vivienne Westwood designed pieces with Sid in mind. Malcolm McLaren, Westwood's partner and Sex Pistols manager, emphasizes this connection even more.

Ren Honjo Sid Vicious

Despite the intensity of Nana Osaki and Ren Honjo's relationship, Yazawa carefully avoids romanticizing their obsession through portraying their love as an unhealthy codependency.

Nana Komatsu: Personality and Style always changing

Nana Komatsu dressed in outfits reflecting the dream/ career she is chasing

Nana Komatsu, known by the nickname Hachi, is a typical Shoujo female character who lives a conventional life and is always looking for validation from her romantic partners. She often wears pastel-tones housewife-inspired dresses, reflecting her femininity and desire for male approval. She lacks ambitions and often changes jobs and wardrobe to become independent. Hachi's fashion sense evolves, reflecting her changing personality. She initially embraces a 70s bohemian art style in art school, then adopts Vivienne Westwood jewelry to fit in with Osaki and her bandmates. Hachi's style draws from Mori and Gyaru subcultures.

Final Thoughts

Whether exploring themes of love, friendship, or personal growth, Ai Yazawa's art serves as a powerful medium for storytelling, capturing the nuances of human emotions and relationships with honesty and authenticity. Yazawa inspires others to create something new and special from their own experiences. She does this with precision and patience.

[stillblu3]

Forgotten (2017) - Movie Review

If there's one movie I have watched multiple times, it's forgotten (2017), a korean psychological thriller, directed by Jang Hang-jun. Although the story is intricate, the storytelling keeps it clear and easy to follow. It's layered, but the movie explains everything well as it unfolds. There are no boring parts; each scene keeps you engaged.

The Story: Synopsis | Overview 

The movie starts with Jin Seok waking up from a bad dream in the car with his family. They're moving to a new house, and when they arrive, Jin Seok experiences a sense of déjà vu, as though he's seen it before. At dinner, Jin Seok's dad warns him and his brother Yoo Seok not to go into a certain room which belonged to a previous owner. Jin Seok hears strange noises and investigates, despite his father's warnings, but Yoo Seok intervenes and they go outside. Yoo Seok is kidnapped that night and remains missing for 19 days. When he returns, he is unable to remember anything. Jin Seok becomes suspicious and secretly follows his brother, discovering something shocking.

Personal Thoughts and Ideas:

The main actors' performances kept the mystery alive throughout the story. I couldn't tell who was more delirious. Halfway through, I was trying to figure out what Yoo Seok experienced during his 19-day disappearance. But upon encountering a plot twist (which I won't go into details so to avoid spoiling the story), I wondered the reason behind Jin Seok's trauma. The movie portrays the psychological aspect of the genre really well, unlike many other movies.

The two main characters have different personalities; Jin Seok is quiet and timid while Yoo Seok is strong and intimidating. The connection between them depicted in different timeline of the movie, feels like watching them in parallel universes.

My favorite aspect of the film is its cinematography, which helps to solidify the story. Warm tones such as yellows, greens, and maroons are used consistently throughout the film, helping to maintain the timeline of the scenes. The exception is the scene after the tragic ending, which is depicted in bright colors, giving the impression that the viewers are witnessing an unrealistic ending or a delusion. It's similar to what-if scenarios, like "What if all of those tragic events hadn't happened?" that leave viewers feeling overwhelmed.

[stillblu3]

The Evolution of Slam Dunk: From Anime to Personal Passion Project

As a child, after finishing school for the day, I would switch on MBC3, a television channel that aired anime. I'd gather with my cousins and we'd watch anime during our pastime together. Among the popular shows like Dragon Ball Z, Beyblade, Sailor Moon, and Yu-Gi-Oh, one that stands out in my memory is Slam Dunk.

The anime adaptation of Slam Dunk ran for 101 episodes, which were based on the manga series written and illustrated by Takehiko Inoue from 1990 to 1996. The story's narratives revolves around Hanamichi Sakuragi, who develops feelings for a girl named Haruko Akagi. Sakuragi decides to join the Shohuku High School Basket Team in an attempt to win her affections.

Slam Dunk first volume manga cover, featuring Hanamichi Sakuragi (redesigned)

The First Slam Dunk (2022): An Overview

Takehiko Inoue took on the roles of both screenwriter and director for the First Slam Dunk movie, making it a personal passion project. The film picks up where the anime left off, after the climactic match between Shohoku and the Shoyo and Ryonan teams combined. However, rather than focusing on Hanamichi Sakuragi, the protagonist of the original story, the movie shifts its focus to Ryota Miyagi. It follows Miyagi's journey as he navigates the world of basketball, his relationships within the team, and his own personal growth.

The Establishing Shot

The movie opens with a scene of Ryota engaged in a one-on-one basketball match with his older brother, Shota Miyagi, on a court. The opening scene effectively sets the tone for the film by showcasing the close bond between Ryota and his brother, and illustrates their deep connection to basketball. Despite the scene's initial brightness and joy, it carries a sense of foreboding, hinting at the tragedy to come: Shota's unexpected death.

Following this loss, the movie delves into Ryota's journey of grief and his determination to honor his brother's memory by pursuing basketball.

Throughout the film, we see present-day or specifically courtside scenes intercut with flashbacks to Ryota's childhood, which is heavy with the weight of processing grief. This storytelling technique slows the pace of the film, allowing the emotional impact to unfold and resonate with viewers.

The Film's Animation

Inoue wanted the movie to capture the essence of the manga, so he chose a light and muted color palette. The film combined 3D CG imagery for basketball scenes mixed with traditional hand-drawn 2D animation for everyday life scenes. Personally, I believe Inoue achieved his goals because as I watched the movie, it felt like the manga illustrations were coming alive. I particularly enjoyed the "watercolor" effect created by the sharp outlines around the characters, and the soft, layered colors.

Lessons Learnt from Shota Miyagi

"I’m always like this too, my heart pounds like crazy. That’s why… I have to pretend that I’m fine."

In the opening scene, at the basketball court, Shota is not only teaching Ryota how to play basketball but also valuable life lessons about strength and resilience. In the scenes leading up to this, we witness Shota processing with the loss of his father while also being a support for his mother. Despite his own grief, Shota bravely declares to his mother that he will take on the responsibility of being the head of the household. This display of strength and determination resonates deeply, almost as if Shota is speaking directly to the audience (breaking the fourth wall), urging them to remain steadfast in the face of adversity. His courage serves as an inspiring reminder to stay strong during trying times, no matter how challenging they may seem.

Final Thoughts

"The First Slam Dunk" stands out from other sports and action anime or movies by taking viewers on a journey from pain and trauma to resilience and strength. It blends fast-paced basketball scenes with slow flashbacks, creating tension and anticipation that keeps viewers engaged. When I watched the film in the cinema, I felt inspired and motivated—it made me want to start drawing in my sketchbook right then and there. The movie left a strong impression on me and remains my biggest inspiration for improving my artwork.

It was incredible to see how the narrative shifted from focusing solely on sports and romance in the anime adaptation I watched as a child to a more personal and meaningful message in the movie years later. As the title suggests, Inoue intended for both familiar and unfamiliar audiences to experience it as though it were their first time watching, establishing a different perspective and impact.

[stillblu3]

Tableau Vivant in Ateez's Guerrilla

An Overview "Guerilla" refers to a small, often politically motivated group opposing a larger armed force. The term was used thoughtfully in the song by rappers Hongjoong and Mingi from ATEEZ, a South Korean group, to inspire action and resistance against suppression. The accompanying music video depicts ATEEZ as rebels in a dystopian society where creativity and individuality are "banned". They infiltrate and break into government centers to spread a message of freedom, urging citizens to resist the oppressive system.

Elements of Tableau Vivant

The music video, featuring an anthemic rock-influenced beat, is rich in symbolism and references to historic artwork. One notable scene bears a striking resemblance to French artist Eugène Delacroix’s 1830 painting, Liberty Leading the People, which symbolized the French Revolution's unity among all social classes (peasants to elites). This echoes ATEEZ's message of unity and common purpose in their track.

Additionally, the scene evokes Joe Rosenthal's iconic photo, Raising the Flag on Iwo Jima, capturing the planting of the U.S. flag during World War II. This photo symbolizes the resilience of the U.S. Marines. Similarly, ATEEZ's stance in the scene reflects strength and resilience, resonating with the bravery of endurance in the face of adversity.

Final Thoughts

In "Guerilla," what really stands out to me is how they effectively depict the presence of the opposing armed force that the guerrillas are against. It's fascinating how they utilize imagery such as airships hovering ominously in the sky, symbolizing a pervasive surveillance, as well as dynamic camera movements that pan from above to below to highlight the contrast between the two opposing groups. Additionally, their use of symbolic elements such as the anarchy symbol and the Metropolis cityscape serve to emphasize the overarching theme of power dynamics at play.

[stillblu3]

Shingo Tamagawa's Vision: The Influence of Puparia

A few years ago, I watched a documentary by Shingo Tamagawa, not knowing much about him, and he became one of the most important influences in my decision to pursue a career in animation.  Tamagawa is the talented animator behind the three minute short film PUPARIA, released in 2020. The title refers to the hard outer shell that pupae form during metamorphosis, suggesting that it explores themes of transformation, metamorphosis, and the nature of reality.  About the Creator

Shingo Tamagawa had always enjoyed drawing as a child, and by the time he reached high school, he was impressed and inspired by renowned animators and creators such as Hayao Miyazaki and Hideaki Anno, encouraging him to begin working in the industry. However, Tamagawa began developing fear of losing admiration for his work and went on a hiatus. He made the most out of his break from drawing, and naturally, began to work independently, intending to leave a trace of his mindset through the animation medium which led to PUPARIA. Tamagawa created the film to recover the value lost during production due to the industry's emphasis on efficiency and profitability. As a result, he decided to create something entirely artistic and personal, without any commercial purpose.

The Making of Puparia

Unlike other productions created by large studios and groups of creators, Puparia was painstakingly handcrafted over three years, entirely by Tamagawa himself, combining traditional and digital mediums with precision. Tamagawa, used a variety of techniques to create his backgrounds, including watercolor, gouache, and digitally scanned each frame for composition. This gives the film a soft, organic appearance while still producing a sharp and detailed image.

Tamagawa, who used to take the task of cleaning and scanning drawings in the world-renown sunrise studio, decided it was a "necessary step" to leverage all his experience into his independent project while allocating some time to the studio to manage his finances. Most of his approaches and solutions found him during his progress, working on each scene until he reached a point of satisfaction and instead of following a strict storyboard, he developed the scenes as he drew. An Overview: Key Elements and Themes of "Puparia"

The beginning of the film sets the mood with a girl sitting in a beautiful, sunny place. There's a strange creature behind her that looks like a giant butterfly or moth. This mysterious moment symbolizes the pupa, the middle stage of transformation. "Puparia" employs symbolism to represent the mysterious and transformative aspects of life, depicting the transition from larva to adult as a metaphor for change and growth. The film's captivating hand-drawn animation transports viewers on an emotional journey, prompting reflection on human existence and the role of art in deepening understanding. It encourages reflection on the meaning of metamorphosis in both personal and universal contexts, revealing art's ability to bring out emotions and provoke self-reflection The portrayal of puparia as haunting yet illuminating beings draws interest and wonder about life's complexities, subtly encouraging exploration of change and growth. Final Thoughts (and My Favorite Screencaps)

My favorite aspect of the film was that, as I previously stated, it was hand drawn by a single person. Tamagawa portrays the strength to work independently, pursuing personal goals while also balancing the real world and responsibilities. The film's other feature was its lack of dialogue, which immersed the audience in its visuals and abstract concepts. The creator successfully conveys the intended message and the meaning behind it, making up for the lack of values lost as he describes. I have nothing but admiration and respect for the creator, who inspires me in my animation pursuits.

[stillblu3]

Themes in Sion Jung's 'Flying Fish'

The South Korean-German singer and songwriter, signed under the label Beautiful Noise, caught my attention and adoration with the 2022 EP "LOVE." This collection, featuring tracks like "Cutlery Collector," "Lies," "Hypocrite," and "Comedy," revolves around themes of deception, pain and the complexities of relationships. A year later, he released the single "Flying Fish," a moderato piece exploring themes of escape, identity, and the repercussions of innocence and naivety. As an overview, the song depicts the struggles of breaking free from dependence and facing the consequences of ignorance, conveying emotions like regret, determination, and acceptance. When I first listened to it, I found the song's intentions easy to interpret, particularly due to the effective use of metaphors, evident even in the title. "Flying Fish" suggests someone seeking freedom and a better life while navigating challenges represented by "concrete walls" and "shark-infested waters." The lyrics portray the struggles within contemporary society, addressing economic inequality, institutional barriers, and unachievable societal norms through the metaphorical imagery of swimming between concrete walls. The shark fins symbolize predatory forces such as corrupt individuals in institutions or governments. The overall lyrics describe the difficulties people face when attempting to be themselves amidst societal pressures. Spreading wings and jumping out of the water symbolizes the desire to go beyond one's limitations. However, the song also addresses the disappointment and unexpected difficulties that can arise due to the pursuits. The chorus emphasizes the value of practical experience over theoretical knowledge. The second verse delves into the internal struggles of those who speak out against injustice, represented by the threat of being torn apart. The pre-chorus implies an ongoing struggle for freedom, while the bridge emphasizes the sacrifices some may make to survive. From another perspective, the interpretation could also be linked directly to the artists' struggles and expression as a musician. Starting out as an artist is difficult; at first, the dream stems from the desire to think and create freely. However, entering the music industry reveals a less-than-ideal reality: there are people in positions of power who actively seek to control both money and creativity. Trends that make the most money often take over being original. As a result, artists are forced to make a difficult decision: give up on their artistic beliefs in pursuit of fame or remain behind. Sion Jung stands out among singers and songwriters as he delves into the harsh realities of the world and personal struggles through his melancholic and dreamy musical style, utilizing instruments such as the guitar and synthesizer, complemented by remarkable vocals. He uses his music to address and bring attention to the often unnoticed or neglected challenges and truths.

[stillblu3]

Ballerina: A Cinematic Recital of Revenge

Ballerina, an action-packed film, takes a unique approach to the revenge genre by incorporating ballet elements into its narrative. The story kicks off with Okju, who appears to be on leave from a high-end security firm, thwarting a robbery with canned vegetables. However, her life takes a dark turn when her friend Min-hee, known as "Ballerina," commits suicide and leaves a note asking for vengeance. Director Lee Chung-hyun, known for his previous work on The Call, creates Ballerina, a cinematic masterpiece (at least to me) that serves as the platform for a revenge story. Determined to convey a sense of recital or performance art, Lee successfully emphasized factors such as cinematography, production design, and music, to the point where the title tracks directed by GRAY were titled after ballet terms such as "Adagio" or "Coda" aligning with the film's theme. A standout feature is the virtual spaces designed for the main characters—Okju, Min-hee, and Choi (the antagonist). The art director Kim Min-hye utilized symbolic elements to convey emotions, such as warmth in Okju's lonely house, fragility in Min hee's space decorated with a fish tank, and humility in Choi's house adorned with antique pieces and artworks. Ballerina addresses dark themes of assault, grooming, and human trafficking, highlighting a woman's fight for justice. The film relies on striking visuals and cinematography, using fluorescent lights and vibrant colors in flashback scenes to contrast the harshness of the overall story. Okju's character development and strength lead to a satisfying ending, with the villain meeting a painful demise at her hands.

[stillblu3]

Fatboy Slim - Praise You

In comparison to the usual performances we see today, Fatboy Slim's "Praise You" music video, directed by Spike Jonze and Roman Coppola, offers a refreshing portrayal of a "flash mob". The video begins with a group of people dancing to the beats of the song. At first glance, it looks as though they've practiced their moves but as the video progresses, it becomes clear that their dancing is spontaneous and not planned. This breaks away from the typical carefully choreographed dance routines we now see in contemporary music videos and performances. What stood out to me the most was the unexpected interruption by the guard, who turned off the music halfway through the video. Instead of getting upset, Spike Jonze jumps onto the guard and gives him a hug. This act eases the tension and encourages the crowd to clap and cheer. Instead of a stage, the dancers make use of a regular location such as the movie theatre where people are waiting to buy tickets, essentially repurposing the space and establishing an interesting atmosphere by combining the everyday activity of buying tickets with a sudden burst of dancing. The happiness and togetherness that come from this impromptu dance make it a special moment in that ordinary space.