“Hot young bloods” or “Blood boiling youth” is a movie I had in my hard drive for years and for some reason had forgotten about. As usual, I didn’t have a clear idea what this is about, but I had heard really good reviews, don’t remember where, it’s been years, and the reviews were right.
Joong Gil (Lee Jong Suk) is the Casanova of the class, presumably the one with the most experience and better moves. He keeps score of the girls he kisses, aiming to kiss every girl. He succeeds not because he is that good, frankly he is quite the dork, but because his targets are just as naïve as he is. I loved the characterization by Lee Jong Suk. It was his little moves and expressions that brought his character to life. Even though I think he overacted towards the end, it made sense since he was supposed to be teenager and he couldn’t control his emotions.
Young Sook (Park Bo Yeong) is the leader of the girls at their school and she acts as a formidable gangster boss. I would find her role funny if Bo Yeong wasn’t so scary. When she decides that she wants Joong Gil, it is unclear to Joong Gil and the viewers whether she has an ulterior motive or she truly likes him. Her attempts to warm him towards herself are … well, she has her own unique charm, sort of.
The highlight, though, for me is the representation of the eighties. Everything is so well placed that you can smell the eighties. And the music! The music is so on point, it has that distinct flair. Also, the beautiful scenery and the golden tones created the sense of an endless summer.
The tone of this movie distinguish it from other romantic comedies, making it stand out. It’s not too laugh-out-loud comedy, and it’s not that romantic either. And it makes poignant remarks about teenage violence as their only way to express the tension they feel around them.
What is this about:
Directed by Lee Yeon Woo. Star Park Bo Yeong, Lee Jong Suk. This is a story of two teenagers at the last year of high school at a rural area of South Korea during the 80’s.My review:
From the first five minutes I understood what the title was about. It really is about the young generation in the 80’s, whose blood was boiling and they were ready to fight at any excuse. This behavior is a direct result of the political state at South Korea at that time, with all that tension being reflected to the teenagers as anger.
The highlight, though, for me is the representation of the eighties. Everything is so well placed that you can smell the eighties. And the music! The music is so on point, it has that distinct flair. Also, the beautiful scenery and the golden tones created the sense of an endless summer.
Why you should watch:
- A romantic comedy that isn’t too ridiculous or romance-centered, but makes thoughtful remarks.
- Very good acting from all the actors, especially the two leads.
- Excellent representation of the 80’s.
- It shines in the little moments.
Why not to watch:
- It’s not strictly comedy and it’s not romance-centered.
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