Watch Set Me Free

Set Me Free is a captivating 2014 South Korean film that centers around the life of a troubled teenager, Yong-ju (played by Choi Woo-sik). The movie opens with Yong-ju, who lives with his abusive father and mute grandmother, trying to escape from his oppressive home life by running away from home. However, he is caught and returned home by the police, and he finds himself trapped once again in his painful reality.

Despite his unbearable circumstances, Yong-ju dreams of becoming a writer and leaving his hometown to pursue his aspirations. However, his father, who has taken on the role of his son's guardian after his mother left home, is against Yong-ju's dreams and instead wants him to work in the fishing industry like he does. Yong-ju's struggles are compounded when he discovers his mother is in prison, causing him to spiral deeper into despair.

The movie takes a dramatic turn when a new teacher, Mr. Kim (played by Sin-cheol Kang), is assigned to Yong-ju's class. Mr. Kim recognizes Yong-ju's potential and becomes a mentor to the teenager, encouraging him to pursue his writing dreams. Mr. Kim also reveals to Yong-ju that his mother was sent to prison for killing a man who tried to harm her, leading Yong-ju on a journey to learn more about his past and confront his demons.

Throughout the film, Yong-ju's character is developed in a sense that is authentic and relatable. He is a teenage boy struggling with identity, abandonment, and trauma. Choi Woo-sik's performance as Yong-ju is outstanding, and the emotional turmoil he portrays is heart-wrenching.

Set Me Free also features poignant subplots involving Yong-ju's classmates and their struggles in their own homes. Su-hyeon Kim plays Jae-rim, whose mother is a prostitute, and he is constantly bullied at school. Yong-ju and Jae-rim build a strong friendship that offers hope and solace to both boys.

The film's cinematography captures the gritty reality of Yong-ju's life and the beauty in his moments of hope. Director Kim Tae-yong brings a delicate and nuanced touch to the film's themes of trauma, emotional pain, and redemption. The final shot of the movie is especially moving, and it lingers with the viewer long after the movie ends.

Set Me Free is a beautiful masterpiece that delves deep into the complexities of the human spirit. The film takes the audience on a journey through the harsh reality of Yong-ju's life and reveals the tragedy of his mother's story. Simultaneously, it delivers hope through the friendship that Yong-ju builds with Jae-rim and the mentorship he receives from Mr. Kim.

The movie is a powerful exploration of the healing that can come from unlikely sources and how friendship can change someone's life. The performances of the actors are exceptional, and the story is extremely moving. Set Me Free is a deeply emotional and thought-provoking film that will leave you feeling touched and inspired. It is a must-watch for anyone who appreciates brilliant storytelling and moving performances.

Set Me Free is a 2017 art house & international movie with a runtime of 1 hour and 48 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.6.