(35:37-37:58), Clip #8: The family goes to church, and people there react in various ways to them being Korean. A week-long analysis of this Oscar-nominated screenplay. I' ve had the feeling of following the film Minari around for a few months now since the first time I saw the trailer last year. Later, he sprints after his grandmother to retrieve her after Soon-ja wanders off, post-barn fire. Minari is a leafy green vegetable ( sometimes called water celery or water dropwort) popular in Korean cooking. I'm not sure what to make of David's relationship with his mother and father. Develop interests and a sense of purpose. Jacob and Monica have long chased the American dream. When the kids on the bus make fun of Paul because he doesn't have water at his house, David realizes that's true about his family, too. What are our options when our priorities are fundamentally different from a loved one's? Grandma drinks it, he's punished, and Grandma defends him. Special contents include Lee Isaac Chung's never-before-published alternate ending, a foreword by Steven Yeun, an original essay by Ocean Vuong, a poem by Claude . Minari first and foremost is a Korean immigrant story, so Korean Americans and Korean immigrants will connect and understand this story in a way that other Americans cannot, but at the heart of this story is a very American story, a story of wanting to better oneself and family. Charming, limpid, and earnest, it's both a familiar tale and a wholly new one.. When they find the creek, and after she plants minari seeds, David is there with her to witness the entire process as the plants grow to maturity. Soon-ja, who has recently suffered a stroke, accidentally sets fire to the barn where Jacob keeps his produce. Cinemablend is part of Future US Inc, an international media group and leading digital publisher. What do you think this statement shows about Jacob's motivations? And who is even included in this fantasy of America? What does Jacob's decision to grow Korean vegetables in Arkansas say about culture and identity? Have students complete the After You Watch Activities. Without forcing emotions on the audience, it gives them the room to step back and see how these characters live their lives and go through growing pains. Minari can be put in kimchi, put in stew, put in soup. Since the diagnosis, the distraught parents have consciously provided David with a sheltered existence. How do priorities seem to shift during the fire? Plot summary: A Korean family starts a farm in 1980s Arkansas. The movie taps into common family dynamics that most students will connect with,while complicating those dynamics through a story of migration and cultural displacement. You might also want to discuss some of the learning objectives or the concept of active viewing. The Minari ending especially offers a satisfying and showstopping conclusion. Cottagecore stems from the notion of going back to agricultural life and living in simplicity and harmony. When it comes to representation, its hard not to feel the lack of differences and experiences onscreen. Jacob explains that the male chicks are discarded, so it's important to be useful. When "Minari," a semiautobiographical film directed by Lee Isaac Chung, won the Golden Globes' best foreign language film in February 2021 because the majority of the movie's dialogue is in. After all is said and done, the fact Monica helps Jacob save the harvested crops from the burning barn is a sign she is still committed to the relationship. While she was in California, she was surrounded by other Korean expatriates, which created a sense of community. Korean people use their heads." Grandma sees David as an American kid and Monica asserts that he's a Korean kid. It could be a sculpture or diorama, a drawing, a poem that describes it, or a virtual one (using Minecraft, etc.). As in the film, it grows rampant along the banks of streams and over damp ground, requiring little attention. Minari Film Discussion, March 11, 2021. Starring: Steven Yeun, Yeri Han, Alan Kim, Yuh-jung Yoon, Will Patton. If . What are the pressures of "fitting in" while also being true to yourself/where you came from? Jacob relies on knowledge and planning, so dismisses the dowser. It speaks to the very human threads of hope, struggles, and perseverance. "Minari" is directed by Lee Isaac Chung. What are Jacob's priorities? Instead, she plays cards and swears. Do you think this is a positive or negative thing? All the films tension bubbles over into the heartbreaking but hopeful Minari ending. (25:49-27:39), Clip #5: Grandma (Soonja) arrives, and David is unsure about her. Students will be writing down notes about one character's motivations. Students can write down responses individuallyand then discuss in pairs, small groups, or as a whole class. She says American kids don't like sharing their room and Monica says, "He's a Korean kid." Alan S. Kim, left, Steven Yeun, Noel Kate Cho and Yeri Han star in "Minari.". The one thing that surprised me was how little of the story touched on racism. Is there a "right"? One would think Attractor, but at times, they are Mentors, other times Nemeses, other times Tricksters. It describes a romanticized idea of living self-sustaining, tending the garden, caring for farm animals as well as baking and handcrafts. And the fire is completely a Trickster type of thing. And an interesting exploration of two subcultures: Korean home life and the rural south. Things that hide are more dangerous and scary." Anne is a quiet force in the movie, taking care of David and trying to make things easier for her parents. Seeing as the movie is about the struggles of trying to get a farm up and running, it's not surprise that three big events -- well, two really big ones, another which is not as dramatic visually, but just as impactful -- are tied to weather and the land: * The tornado: Not only a danger in and of itself, but a metaphor for the "storm" within the family. The discussion guide and lesson below will help students consider how and why characters in Minari act the way they do. Minari (2020) PG-13 | Drama Watch options Official Trailer A tender and sweeping story about what roots us, Minari follows a Korean-American family that moves to a tiny Arkansas farm in search of their own American Dream. That makes it seem like that dream is possible for all BIPOC people, when we know thats just not true. Integrate their personal and social identities. Monica explains that her mom has no other family because her father died in the war. You can use all of the questions and activities or pick and choose, depending on how much time you have. Chung based the film on what he remembers . If you decide to help students delve deeper into the topic, you might show the entire film and have more extensive discussions over multiple days. and our Edit Details To ask other readers questions about Minari please sign up . In Minari, writer-director Lee Isaac Chung (Munyurangabo) documents a South Korean immigrant familys pursuit of happiness in rural Arkansas. Importantly, theyll return to this after the movie and reflect on it. In an interview with Cinemablend, various cast and director Chung spoke about how minari is special because its a plant that thrives even in rough soil. We also see Monica and Paul (Will Patton) with Jacob as he pays to find a new water well, something he was against in the beginning. Why does his grandma telling him he's a "strong boy" contradict the identity he's used to? David expects his grandmother to be able to bake cookies. Monica wants a sense of community. You will receive a verification email shortly. Is Soonja what you expected? Due to his heart problems, he is discouraged from physical exertion. that made it especially memorable? Jacob explains that the male chicks are discarded, so it's important to be useful. Why? Monica sends the children away and Jacob and her have a passionate confrontation. He further explained in an interview on NPRs Reset how minari really was something that his grandmother grew, and some of his memories with her tie back to them. The tension between Jacob's dreams and Monica's pragmatic worries, between Soonja's discreet wisdom and the childrens' rejection of it these elements of plot and story make for a gripping and engaging movie. Also, he has faith, another quality Jacob's family needs. Jacob faces many challenges and setbacks as he tries to make the farm work, only to lose the crop in the fire. This week is our discussion about the film, Minari: "A Korean American family moves to an Arkansas farm in search of its own American dream. As she starts to wander away into the distance, over-burdened by her emotions, her grandchildren pull her back to sanity and help her return home safely. The film also has many instances where water causes destruction for the Yi family. Soon-ja comes to live with her daughter and her family because of David. What unies the narrative? Jacob and Monica fight as the kids make paper airplanes with the message "Don't fight!" Because of the numerous arguments he has heard between his parents, David is hostile towards his grandmother, who he believes is the cause of all their problems. (1:31:41-1:35:41), Clip #15: Soonja accidentally sets fire to the produce shed. Minari also symbolizes the Yis story. When we hear judgement about who we are or our circumstances that, until that moment, we've just accepted, how does it shape our sense of self? (49:44-55:13), Clip #10: After Jacob learns a deal fell through with a Korean business owner, there's a shot of the smoke stack for "discarded" useless male chicks. Minari Endoh 4.27 179 ratings2 reviews Rahzel, Alzeid, and Baroqueheat continue traveling together to look for the killer of Alzeid's father. Why do you think so? News & Media Literacy What are the pressures of "fitting in" while also being true to yourself/where you came from? Use as few or as many clips as you see fit, but keep in mind that you may need to introduce the movie's overall plot and talk through some of what happens before or after each clip. (7:56-9:40), Clip #2: A thunderstorm is in full swing, and everyone's scared. David wakes up thinking he's wet the bed, but it was Soonja this time because she's had a stroke. Written and directed by Lee Isaac Chung, Minariis, at least in part, based on a true story. Minari is a semi-autobiographical drama film about a Korean-American family growing up in rural Arkansas during the nineteen-eighties. After her stroke, Soon-ja increasingly starts to feel like a burden to her daughters already struggling family and desperately tries to be as self-reliant and helpful as she can. A Korean family starts a farm in 1980s Arkansas. Understand the influences of organizations and systems of behavior. Does she find it at church? People often fall into roles in families: The peacemaker, the comedian, the caretaker, etc. In her last scene, Soon-ja sits wide awake, watching the Yis sleep on the floor together. Much of the movie has subtitles, so if you have students that can benefit from ita simple transcriptand the full screenplay are both available. "Minari" Discussion Group Friday July 16. If that makes sense. Minari, which won a Golden Globe for Best Foreign Language Film, follows the story of an immigrant Korean family who move from California to Arkansas in hopes for a better life and land to call their own.Starring The Walking Dead's Steven Yeun alongside a . The Yi family moves from California to Arkansas because the father, Jacob (Steven Yeun), hopes to grow Korean vegetables on a small plot of land to sell to Korean grocers in Dallas. We see David really run for the first time because hes no longer burdened by the heart murmur and he wants to stop his grandma from leaving. (16:09-19:51), Clip #4: Jacob tells Anne that Koreans immigrate to the U.S. and miss Korean food. Minari won the 2021 Academy Award for best Actress in Supporting Role. Demonstrate personal and collective agency. Jacob and she accept that their marriage is done. But thats too much for one film, one director, and one story to bear. But the well he digs there soon runs dry, and he has no choice but to use county water, which means that the family now has to pay for another thing that they cant afford. Why do you think the filmmakers linger on the shot of the smokestack at the end of this scene? Be the first to contribute! When during the storm outside, Jacob enters the trailer home and talks about "escape" and "the house could blow away," that is the straw that breaks the proverbial back as far as Monica is concerned, at least insofar as her initial reaction to this shocking move to Arkansas. They fight. I think that works for "Minari.". Speaks to the strength David exhibits, but also by extension the entire family. You might also want to discuss some of the learning objectives or the concept of active viewing. Promise. Have students complete the After You Watch Activities. Chung tells this semi-autobiographical story from Davids perspective, effectively using the young character as the filmmakers surrogate. How does Cather bring the novel full circle, mirroring Jim's observation, "What a little circle man's experience is"? Thinking back on the movie, is there one scene thats particularly memorable? At 49:44, there's a scene where David tricks Soonja (Grandma) into drinking his urine. I am a black woman who grew up poor on the Southside of Chicago, and I felt deeply moved and connected to this film because it made me see my parents' struggles in a different way, and thats one of the remarkable things about Minari. By rejecting non-essential cookies, Reddit may still use certain cookies to ensure the proper functionality of our platform. Show the entire film with a more in-depth lesson plan and. We also see the Yi family sleeping on the floor together. There was a problem. For Part 3, to read the Character discussion, go here. On the church bus, kids joke about Paul not having water. The True Story Behind 'Cocaine Bear' Is Lowkey Sad, All the Best Movies Highlighting Black Characters, All the Austin Butler Movies to Catch Up on, The 34 Best Comedies on Hulu to Watch Now, Important: All of Marvels Upcoming Releases. Like minari, the family has finally and fully adapted to their new surroundings while maintaining the morsels of individuality that set them apart. Students can write down responses individuallyand then discuss in pairs, small groups, or as a whole class. Specifically how our choices are influenced by our character traits, values, and virtues. Because entire countries can't have a smell, what is it David is really reacting to? Why? Minari is wonderful, wonderful!". Lee Isaac Chung's depiction of the often lonely path Korean immigrants must tread towards their American dream has won its stars Yuh-jung Youn and Steve Yeun Oscar nominations David wakes up thinking he's wet the bed, but it was Soonja this time because she's had a stroke. Is she what David expected? When Monica asks Jacob which family the move was really for, what does she mean? Tony Minieri creates needlepoint designs, classes and custom stitch & thread guides for the needle artist. After the Dallas deal falls through, Jacob realizes that he will face financial ruin if he doesnt find another buyer for his produce before it starts to rot. Why? Start by introducing the movie and give students some context as to why its worth thinking more deeply about. Fri, Jul 16, 2021, 8:00 PM PDT "Minari" Discussion Group Friday, July 16. Why or why not? Do you agree with her? On the church bus, kids joke about Paul not having water. The kids go to church so they can call their mother. Much of the movie has subtitles, so if you have students that can benefit from ita simple transcriptand the full screenplay are both available. Not a coming-of-age movie so much as a deeply personal and lovingly poetic rendering of his Korean American childhood specifically, how it felt for his immigrant family to adjust to life in . Shadow And Bone: 5 Things To Remember Before Season 2, ABC Execs Are Reportedly Removing Any Remaining Traces Of Amy Robach And TJ Holmes: 'The TV Business Is Rough', Turns Out, Thats An Actor Actually Playing Cocaine Bear, Amidst Alleged Drama With Selena Gomez, Fans Are Remembering Hailey Bieber's Past Obsession With Jelena, Jeremy Renner Nods At Fan-Favorite Marvel Line While Sharing His Recovery Journey After Snowplow Accident. NY 10036. It grows anywhere, like weeds. , Steven Yeun, Noel Kate Cho and Yeri Han, Alan,. Award for best Actress in Supporting Role really reacting to the filmmakers linger on the floor.... To retrieve her after Soon-ja wanders off, post-barn fire jacob which family the move really!, there 's a Korean kid. more deeply about the bed, but it was Soonja this time she... 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Things easier for her parents choices are influenced by our character traits,,... So dismisses the dowser in-depth lesson plan and hopeful Minari ending especially offers a satisfying and conclusion! And earnest, it grows rampant along the banks of streams and over damp ground, requiring little attention harmony. A sheltered existence, he has faith, another quality jacob 's motivations but at,. Of the story touched on racism they can call their mother David 's relationship with mother... Their new surroundings while maintaining the morsels of individuality that set them.... Kim, left, Steven Yeun, Yeri Han, Alan Kim, left, Steven,. She 's had a stroke, accidentally sets fire to the barn jacob!. `` Yoon, will Patton specifically how our choices are influenced by our character,... A wholly new one ; Minari. & quot ; fight! very threads. Church so they can call their mother floor together a stroke `` he 's the... In full swing, and virtues ; discussion Group Friday, July 16 fight! a Trickster of! Responses individuallyand then discuss in pairs, small groups, or as a whole class drinking his urine 2021 Award! Family has finally and fully adapted to their new surroundings while maintaining the morsels individuality! On the church bus, kids joke about Paul not having water important to be.! Film with a sheltered existence romanticized idea of living self-sustaining, tending the garden, caring for farm animals well! By Lee Isaac Chung ( Munyurangabo ) documents a south Korean immigrant familys pursuit of in. The church bus, kids joke about Paul not having water of hope, struggles, earnest. When we know thats just not true true to yourself/where you came?... The diagnosis, the caretaker, etc plot summary: a thunderstorm is full! `` strong boy '' contradict the identity he 's a Korean kid. grandma telling him he 's the! Pressures of `` fitting in '' while also being true to yourself/where minari discussion guide came from Arkansas... Yeri Han, Alan Kim, left, Steven Yeun, Noel Kate and...

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