Minha Kim, a name that has gained notable traction in the film industry, marks her first lead role since her acclaimed appearance in AppleTV+’s “Pachinko.” In her latest venture, “A Girl with Closed Eyes,” directed by Chun Sun-young, Kim dives into a complex character entangled in a murder mystery. While the film excels in its atmospheric quality and strong performances, notably from Kim and co-star Choi Hee-seo, it falters in narrative coherence, which compromises the film’s overall impact on the audience.
Set against the backdrop of Hongcheon, a serene mountain region in South Korea, the film opens with a striking scene: Kim’s character, claiming the name Min-ju, is found holding a smoking gun over the lifeless body of the celebrated author Jeong Sang-woo (played by Lee Ki-woo). This scene sets a high-stakes tone, creating immediate intrigue as Kim’s character claims the author was linked to a 20-year-old kidnapping case, a revelation that twists the narrative into unexpected territories. As the story unfolds, the audience learns that she is, in fact, Lee In-seon, the victim in the kidnapping case that served as inspiration for Jeong’s best-selling novel.
The involvement of Park Min-ju (Choi Hee-seo), a detective and former classmate, adds layers to the plot. Their strained relationship serves as a mirror to the underlying themes of betrayal and unresolved conflict that permeates the film. As Park reluctantly investigates the case, the tension escalates, complicating their relationship further and deepening the narrative.
“A Girl with Closed Eyes” is not shy about showcasing its cinematic influences. The film draws comparisons to “Memories of Murder,” highlighting the dichotomy between urban and provincial law enforcement. Such intertextual references, though evident, enrich the viewing experience while potentially overshadowing Chun’s unique voice. Other nods to works, such as “Misery” and “The Secret Garden,” demonstrate a diverse tapestry of inspirations, allowing viewers to engage with familiar themes while following the unique storyline.
However, while these influences bolster the film’s credibility, they also signify a reliance on established narratives rather than innovative storytelling. This reliance becomes problematic as the second half of the film begins to spiral into a series of incoherent plot twists and red herrings that distract from the initial intrigue.
The film begins with a compelling premise, but as the plot develops, it gets bogged down by convoluted threads that meander away from the original tension. The introduction of conflicting plots and unnecessary complexity disrupts the viewer’s immersion, transforming what was once a gripping narrative into a puzzling disarray.
Despite Chun’s commendable directorial skills, notably in crafting visually striking set pieces and suspenseful confrontations, the deterioration of the plot undermines the strength of the performances. In Kim’s portrayal of Lee In-seon, academy-worthy moments exist, as she vacillates between villainy and victimhood. Yet, the script’s descent into absurdity mitigates her character’s potential, leaving audiences questioning the storyline instead of emotionally engaging with it.
“A Girl with Closed Eyes” serves as a study in contrasts. It demonstrates exceptional direction, strong performances, and an intriguing premise but ultimately stumbles due to weak narrative execution. Minha Kim shines as a lead, anchored by her versatility and emotional depth, yet the film’s failure to maintain narrative clarity diminishes its potential impact. As a new entry in the crime thriller genre, it leaves the audience with both admiration for its ambition and disappointment for its shortcomings. This film encapsulates the struggle of artistic vision, caught between homage to cinematic influences and the necessity for originality, ultimately prompting viewers to consider both the merits and pitfalls of the thriller genre.
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