DOCUMENTARY SHORT
JANUARY 5, 2023
KOR | 14 minutes | 2022
Documentary directed by Bunny Kim
Featuring Chang Soo Kwon
thirty-three
After a tragic incident, Chang Soo Kwon changes his perspective on how he wants to live his life.
Interview
CineAsian Films (CAF): This film explores such an important topic. What was the inspiration behind thirty-three?
Bunny Kim: After the last few years, it became apparent to me how necessary it is to emphasize the importance of taking care of your mental health. Once you can do that for yourself, you can become that support for another because essentially everything is so interconnected. I started to see the world from a place of compassion and empathy because that was what I was receiving through the kindness and support of others. I realized the power of love, especially the love you give yourself. This is something very close to my heart and something very important to me on so many levels, culturally and emotionally. I am truly grateful to have the opportunity to share this story.
CAF: What were some of the challenges you faced during production?
Kim: There were a few challenges and one in particular that actually enhanced the shot. I think that’s the beauty of filmmaking that I really love. We had only one day for exterior shots and it started raining, quite heavily because it was summer in South Korea so within 10 minutes, it just started pouring. I was actually really worried that we didn’t get enough shots but it all worked out and when you watch the film, you can see the connection with the rain.
CAF: What do you hope people can take away from watching this film?
Kim: That you are not alone.That you are loved. And that you will get through it. Also, taking care of yourself whether it’s mentally, emotionally, physically, or spiritually– it looks different for each person and to have compassion without judgement because it is so difficult to sit with these things. Finally, I hope the stigma surrounding this topic, especially in South Korea, can be brought to light in a way to bring more awareness, more empathy and more action.
CAF: Are you working on anything new?
Kim: I am in the process of a new project which is very exciting and terrifying but I really love it. It’s become this yearning and desire to continually learn, discuss and be surrounded by cinema and I feel so lucky to find what I love to do.
thirty-three is one of the many great projects shared with CineAsian Films through our submissions process. If you’d like to join them, submit your project.
Credits
Director, Writer, Producer: Bunny Kim
Cinematographer: Dominykas Faustas Bilcius
CineAsian Films 