Watch Daddy-Long-Legs

Daddy-Long-Legs is a 2005 South Korean movie based on a novel of the same name by Jean Webster. The story follows the development of a young girl named Young-mi, who grew up in an orphanage. A mysterious benefactor, known only as Daddy-Long-Legs, finances her education to help her fulfill her dreams of becoming a writer. The film opens with a scene of Young-mi as a young girl running around with her friends in the orphanage. There, she is given a pencil and a notebook by a man who is never seen. Fast forward several years later, and Young-mi is a young woman, now living and working in Seoul, but still dreaming of becoming a writer. One day, she receives a letter from Daddy-Long-Legs, who agrees to finance her education.

Young-mi is overjoyed and grateful for the opportunity. She moves to a small town and attends a prestigious university, where she meets her handsome and charming tutor, Joon-ho. While an unexpected romantic connection forms between them, Joon-ho and Young-mi keep their distance, knowing that maintaining their professional relationship is essential to her success in school. She continues to receive letters from her mysterious benefactor, the details of which she shares with Joon-ho.

As Young-mi continues to blossom, she becomes increasingly curious about Daddy-Long-Legs. She starts to investigate his identity, questioning everyone she knows, including Joon-ho. Her search leads her down an unexpected path to the truth that changes everything.

The film features a strong and emotionally rich performance by the lead actress Bo-ra Geum, who portrays Young-mi exceptionally well. Her nuanced and subtle acting, which perfectly captures the character's vulnerability and innocence, is one of the film's highlights. Hyun Bin, who plays Joon-ho, delivers an impressive performance as well. He expertly balances his character's gentle and romantic side with a more reserved and professional demeanor.

The film is beautifully shot, capturing the lovely Korean countryside and picturesque university campus life. Director Yong-hwa Kim expertly creates a romantic and dreamlike world that draws you in and never lets go. The score is also noteworthy, successfully setting a melancholic and nostalgic tone that complements the film's bittersweet story.

One of the movie's charming aspects is the central relationship between Young-mi and Daddy-Long-Legs, which is mostly played out through letters. This adds a sense of mystery and romance, as well as providing a unique and engaging narrative device.

Overall, Daddy-Long-Legs is a delightful and heartwarming romantic drama that tells a timeless story about hope, dreams, and love. The film's strong themes, beautiful cinematography, and strong performances make it a true gem of South Korean cinema. It's a story that will resonate with anyone who has ever struggled to make their dreams a reality or has experienced the transformative power of love.