Exploring the Emotional Power of a Classic: The Allure of "Ppong (Mulberry)"
In 1986, a film that would leave a lasting mark on the history of Korean cinema was released. Based on the novel "Mulberry" by Na Do-hyang, Ppong (Mulberry) was brought to the screen by director Lee Doo-yong, starring the talented Lee Mi-sook, Lee Dae-geun, and Lee Mu-jung. Upon its release on February 8, 1986, the film attracted over 137,000 viewers, marking a significant success at the box office.
A Story of Desire and History: Human Characters Caught Between the Two
Ppong (Mulberry) is set in the 1920s during Japan's colonial rule over Korea, in a small village called Yongdamgol. The film centers around the struggles of An-hyeop (played by Lee Mi-sook), whose husband Sam-bo (Lee Mu-jung) is a gambler neglecting his family. However, the story takes a dramatic turn when it's revealed that Sam-bo is secretly a member of the Korean independence movement. This twist adds a layer of depth to what could have been perceived as a straightforward erotic drama, elevating it into a story about resistance and the personal costs of survival. Meanwhile, Sam-dol (Lee Dae-geun), a servant who is infatuated with An-hyeop, represents the hardships faced by the common people, torn between their desires and the harsh realities of life.
Differences from the Original: Adding a New Perspective
While Ppong (Mulberry) is based on Na Do-hyang's novel, the film introduces unique elements that set it apart from the original text. Notably, the revelation that Sam-bo is an independence fighter is an invention of the film, not present in the novel. This addition provides a broader historical context and deepens the narrative, transforming it from a simple tale of desire into a more complex exploration of human endurance under colonial oppression.
Music and Cinematic Expression: Capturing the Era’s Sensuality
The film's soundtrack leaves a memorable impression, particularly with the inclusion of the traditional Korean folk song "Ppong Dda-ruh Ga-se" (Let’s Pick Mulberries). This song connects the film to Korea's cultural roots, enhancing its authenticity. Director Lee Doo-yong also employs a mix of explicit and subtle imagery, using metaphorical scenes like the flowing water of a waterwheel to suggest sensuality without being overt, showcasing his ability to blend artistry with the film's more provocative elements.
Box Office Success and the Birth of the "Ppong" Series
Despite being an adult film, Ppong (Mulberry) was a commercial hit. Released alongside Jang Mi-hee's Hwang Jin Yi, Ppong outperformed its counterpart, attracting a larger audience. This success led to the creation of sequels, although none of them achieved the same level of acclaim as the original. Nevertheless, Ppong (Mulberry) remains a significant work in the history of Korean erotic cinema.
Lee Mi-sook's Award-Winning Performance
In her role as An-hyeop, Lee Mi-sook delivered a powerful performance that challenged the social taboos of the time. Her portrayal of a woman grappling with love, desire, and survival earned her the Best Actress award at the Asia-Pacific Film Festival. Through her nuanced acting, Lee Mi-sook was able to convey the complex emotions of a character who is both a victim of circumstance and an agent of her fate.
Ppong (Mulberry) is more than just an erotic drama; it is a film that thoughtfully examines the intersection of human desires and historical realities. The combination of Na Do-hyang's literary depth and Lee Doo-yong's creative vision results in a classic film that resonates with audiences today.
You can watch Ppong (Mulberry) on YouTube for free. Experience the captivating charm of 1980s Korean cinema for yourself. The film is accessible with Korean, English, Thai, Indonesian, Arabic, Vietnamese, and Malay subtitles.
https://youtu.be/6-Vn_As1IG8?si=CmVpZEQazmnBUKBS
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