Review of Welcome to Dongmakgol (2005) by Ng P — 21 Dec 2007

I haven't been this uplifted by a film since seeing Amelie for the first time. I was expecting something good but not this amazing. I've heard it described as a live action Studio Ghibli film and I think that captures the essence of this classic best.

It is not only a fantastical journey of a film, but one with stunning visuals and expertly crafted scenes. The funny moments are absolutely hilarious and it mixes dark comedy with a much sweeter variety effortlessly.

The scene with the boar is pure excitement and the sad scenes are tear jerking. Never failing to shift the mood with some consistency the film has a fantastic array of characters each played to perfection.

Only the American cast let the film down as their acting styles seemed so forced. The political morals do not swamp the film and it is quite simply a delightful piece.