Watch A Stray Goat

A Stray Goat is a South Korean drama film released in 2017 that tells the story of a high school boy named Min-sik (played by Park Jin-young). Min-sik has just moved to a small rural town where he struggles to fit in due to his difficulty in making friends and his reserved personality. He is also the victim of repeated bullying from his classmates, who torment him with cruel jokes and physical harassment.

One day, while wandering in the countryside, Min-sik encounters a stray goat and decides to care for it. He finds solace in the animal's company and devotion, and the goat becomes his only friend in the town. However, as Min-sik tries to keep the goat safe and hidden, he faces new challenges that force him to confront the town's prejudices and his own anxieties.

The central conflict of the movie revolves around the tension between Min-sik and his classmates, especially a girl named Ye-joo (played by Ji Woo). Ye-joo is a popular, outgoing girl who initially ignores Min-sik's presence, but later becomes involved in his life through her own experiences of grief and isolation. As Min-sik and Ye-joo's relationship evolves, they both learn to understand and appreciate each other's struggles, and find hope in their mutual struggles.

The film's director, Jo Jae-min, uses a slow pace and contemplative visual style to convey the characters' emotional journey. The rural landscapes and the isolated school campus give a sense of loneliness and detachment that echoes the protagonists' feelings. The film's score, composed by Lee Jun-oh, also reflects this mood, with its poignant and minimalist melodies.

One of the strengths of A Stray Goat is its nuanced portrayal of the characters, who are multi-dimensional and complex. Min-sik is not explicitly portrayed as a victim, but as a teenager dealing with trauma and anxiety. Ye-joo is not solely a romantic interest, but a character with her own issues to overcome. Other supporting characters, such as Min-sik's parents and his classmates' parents, also have their own stories and motivations that add depth to the movie.

Furthermore, the film offers a nuanced commentary on themes such as bullying, prejudice, and mental health. It does not shy away from the dark realities of these issues, but also offers a message of resilience and hope. A Stray Goat shows how small acts of kindness and love can make a difference, and how people can find strength in compassion.

In conclusion, A Stray Goat is a poignant and thought-provoking drama that explores the themes of isolation and empathy. It boasts a strong cast and a beautiful cinematography, and its message of hope and resilience is both timely and timeless. The film leaves a lasting impact on its viewers, and is a must-watch for anyone interested in Korean cinema or human relationships.

A Stray Goat is a 2017 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 31 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.1.