Movie Review: ‘Compatibility’ - A Tale of Fate and Fortune
Release: EBS1’s ‘Korean Film Special’ program features the 2016 South Korean film ‘Compatibility’.
Plot Summary:
During the Joseon Dynasty, when famine threatens the kingdom, King Kim Sang-kyung seeks a solution. He believes the marriage of Princess Songhwa can end the drought. Fortune teller Seo Do-yoon assesses potential suitors’ compatibility with the princess. However, Princess Songhwa, known for her fierce spirit, refuses to marry a stranger. She secretly spies on the candidates.
Themes:
- Fate and compatibility
- Fortune-telling and its influence
- The importance of human relationships
Review:
‘Compatibility’ is a captivating film that explores the complex concepts of fate, destiny, and human connection. The story is engaging and the performances by the talented cast are commendable. The film’s exploration of fortune-telling adds an intriguing layer of mystery and suspense.
Strengths:
- Strong performances by Shim Eun-kyung and Lee Seung-gi
- Intriguing premise and exploration of fate
- Humorous and heartwarming moments
- Beautiful cinematography and production values
Areas for Improvement:
- Some dialogue could be more concise.
- The pacing could be slightly faster in the first act.
Conclusion:
‘Compatibility’ is a well-crafted film that offers a unique blend of drama, humor, and philosophical exploration. Its engaging story and talented cast make it a must-watch for fans of Korean cinema.
Additional Notes:
- The film is the second in a trilogy.
- It is based on the theory that a person’s nature and fate are determined by their birth year/month/day/hour.
- The film features various fortune-telling data and practices.