What is "Declaration of Idiot" (1983)?
"Declaration of Idiot" (aka Declaration of Fools, 바보선언, Baboseon-eon) is a 1983 South Korean film directed by the renowned Lee Jang-ho, known for his innovative and socially conscious approach to filmmaking. The movie is a significant piece of cinema that delves into the harsh realities of 1980s South Korea, a period marked by military dictatorship, rapid industrialization, and severe social inequalities. It stands out as a road movie that also functions as a scathing critique of society, wrapped in a narrative that is both absurdist and deeply human.
This film is the second part of a series based on the novel Children of Darkness by author Lee Cheol-yong, with the first being the 1981 film of the same name. "Declaration of Idiot" is a unique take on the struggles of those marginalized by society, presenting their stories with a mix of dark humor, tragedy, and poignant social commentary.
Plot and Themes
The story follows three main characters: Dong-chil (played by Kim Myung-gon), a limping man labeled as a fool by society; Yuk-deok (Lee Hee-seong), a somewhat naive taxi driver; and Hye-young (Lee Bo-hee), a woman who poses as a college student but is working as a prostitute in Seoul's Cheongnyangni red-light district. These characters embark on a seemingly aimless journey across Korea, drifting from one place to another, as they seek to escape the harsh realities of their lives.
The film paints a vivid picture of the underbelly of South Korean society during a time of great turmoil. It explores themes of social alienation, the loss of innocence, and the desperate search for meaning in a world that seems to have lost its moral compass. The movie is also a biting critique of the political landscape of the time, particularly the apathy of the political elite towards the suffering of ordinary people.
Lee Jang-ho’s Vision
Director Lee Jang-ho is one of the pivotal figures in Korean cinema, particularly known for his willingness to tackle controversial subjects and push the boundaries of conventional filmmaking. In "Declaration of Idiot," his directorial style is both bold and experimental. He employs a blend of exaggerated physical performances and minimal dialogue, creating a film that feels at times like a silent movie brought into the modern era.
The film was produced during a period of intense censorship in South Korea, yet it manages to convey its critical message through clever subtext and visual metaphors. Lee Jang-ho's use of satire and irony allows him to bypass the censors while still delivering a powerful indictment of the society he portrays. The film’s opening and closing sequences, featuring a child’s voice narrating a naive and overly patriotic view of the country, are particularly striking in their use of irony.
The Cast
Lee Bo-hee (as Hye-young) is a prominent actress in Korean cinema, especially known for her roles in the 1980s. In this film, she portrays a complex character struggling with her identity and circumstances. Her performance adds depth to the narrative, making her a central figure in the story’s emotional arc.
Kim Myung-gon (as Dong-chil) is a celebrated actor who later gained fame for his role in "Sopyonje." In "Declaration of Idiot," he delivers a moving portrayal of a man who, despite being labeled as a fool, exhibits profound humanity and resilience. His performance is both subtle and powerful, capturing the tragic essence of his character.
Lee Hee-seong (as Yuk-deok) brings a mix of humor and pathos to his role, effectively balancing the absurdity of the situations he finds himself in with the underlying sadness of his character’s life.
Cinematic Style and Music
The film’s cinematic style is distinctive, often evoking the feel of a silent film. Lee Jang-ho minimizes dialogue, allowing the actors' exaggerated physicality and the carefully chosen background sounds to carry much of the narrative. The film also employs surreal and symbolic imagery, making it a visually engaging experience.
The soundtrack is notable for its use of classical music, particularly Handel’s "Rinaldo" HWV 7, which is used to underscore the emotional intensity of key scenes. The juxtaposition of this grand, baroque music with the bleak, often absurd reality of the characters’ lives creates a powerful contrast that heightens the film’s impact.
Awards and Legacy
"Declaration of Idiot" received significant acclaim, particularly for its bold and unconventional approach to storytelling. It was selected as the opening film for the Forum section of the 1988 Berlin International Film Festival, where it won the Reader Jury of the "Zitty" award, further cementing its status as a cult classic in Korean cinema.
The film’s influence extends beyond Korea, with noted Japanese filmmaker Sion Sono citing it as an inspiration for his own work. In South Korea, it remains an important film for its daring critique of society and its innovative cinematic techniques.
Watch "Declaration of Idiot" for Free!
For those interested in experiencing this unique film, "Declaration of Idiot" is available to watch for free on YouTube. The film offers English, Malay, Vietnamese, Arabic, Italian, Indonesian, Thai, and Korean subtitles.
YouTube link: Watch "Declaration of Idiot" for Free
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