One is a North Korean defector trying to survive in a foreign land while the other is a former national athlete who’s lost all hope to live. At the heart of “My Name Is Loh Kiwan,” the film delves into the unlikely bond forged between the two polar opposites.
Produced by Yong Film, the visionary studio behind acclaimed works such as “20th Century Girl,” “The Call,” and “The Handmaiden,” this compelling character-driven drama marks the feature directorial debut of the talented Kim Hee-jin, who approaches the nuances of the story with keen sensitivity.
Escaping from China, North Korean defector Loh Kiwan sets out to fulfill his mother’s dying wish — to find a place where he can truly own his name and live on his own terms. He travels to Belgium to seek refugee status but ends up being in limbo with no means to make a living nor put a roof over his head.
Marie, who used to represent the Belgian national shooting team and is now battling her inner demons, chances upon an exhausted Kiwan and steals his wallet. The two end up in a heated confrontation. And it’s only when Marie realizes that the wallet is the only memento left by Kiwan’s mother that they begin to be drawn to each other over their shared experiences and emotions.
Superstar Song Joong-ki (“Reborn Rich,” “Vincenzo”) portrays Loh Kiwan and delivers a heart-wrenching performance, revealing new facets of his acting prowess in this raw role. Choi Sung-eun (“The Sound of Magic”) imbues the role of Marie with vulnerability and despair. Cho Han-cheul (“Gyeongseong Creature,” “Reborn Rich”) plays Marie’s father, Yoon Sung, who is concerned over their increasing closeness.
The poster and trailer for “My Name Is Loh Kiwan” give a sneak preview into the poignant exploration of the indomitable human spirit and the quest for self-discovery. As their paths intersect, Kiwan and Marie are drawn together by a shared sense of defiance and determination, finding solace and strength in each other.
Do they deserve happiness? Find out in “My Name Is Loh Kiwan,” now streaming on Netflix.
Watch the trailer of “My Name Is Loh Kiwan” below: