STORYLINE: 7/10 - CHARACTER: 7.5/10 I do oddly enjoy dramas or films based in past Korean culture and Chunhyang truly lived up to that while addressing a part of the culture then I was not aware of. The film provides narration from a Pansori – “a Korean genre of musical storytelling performed by a vocalist and drummer” Google. This was the first I had come across this sort of storytelling so I was intrigued to experience. It did take me awhile to get used to the Pansori’s delivery of the events through what felt like slow-motion singing, however, as the plot developed it became more prominent and at times the Pansori’s delivery style provided life to the scene on screen. Chunhyang is a film about a governor’s son named Mong Ryong whom falls in love with a Gisaeng’s daughter, named Chun Hyang. At first I had to google what a courtesan was too – “was the Korean equivalent of a geisha or courtesan knowledgeable in poetry, dance, music, culture and politics, who entertained noblemen and royalty of the Joseon Dynasty”. However in the subbed copy I watched she was called a courtesan whom is “a prostitute, especially one with wealthy or upper-class clients” Google. Chun Hyang had insured that she grew up with the mentality and essence of a fair lady in hopes of distancing herself from the title and stigma of her mother choice of career. As the young lovebirds get to know one another (*EXPECT SOME MILD NUDITY*); unexpected occurrence happen that require Lee Mong to leave the town. This is when the story begins to interestingly unfold through the introduction of a new governor in town whom you could say provides life to the love based plot through his use of power from his title. It is refreshing that the main characters do not allow their social class or age to undermine their feelings and love. They both respected one another enough to faithfully love each other despite the distance. ACTING: 9/10 The chemistry between the actors is believable due to their credible acting abilities. They skills of acting in a manner that you can sense the chemistry of the lovers is made more outstanding due to this have been their debut roles for both. However I did enjoy watching Jo Seung Woo more than Lee Hyo Jeong. He just had a presence of importance in a non-arrogate way to him. MUSIC: 6.5/10 Not much to say regarding the music for the drummer accompanying the narrator; beside the narration of the story through song. LIKED: My favourite scene would have to be Mong Ryong’s part at birthday celebration. DISLIKED: Can’t actually think of something I did not like for despite the governors abuse of his power may be viewed as wrong, however without it the Chunghyang’s story would probably be boring. CONCLUSION: You should definitely watch this movie if you enjoy genres such as FORBIDDEN LOVE due to indifferent SOCIAL STATUS/ CLASS – REBELLION – PANSORI STORYTELLING – 13th CENTURY KOREA – FAITHFULNESS – USAGE OF POWER/ STATUS -