'A Taxi Driver' is a 2017 South Korean film that captures a significant historical event through the lens of cinema. Directed by Jang Hoon and starring Song Kang-ho, the film tells the story of a taxi driver who becomes inadvertently involved in the Gwangju Uprising of 1980. The film's production, release, and reception highlight its impact both domestically and internationally.
Production and Filming
The production of 'A Taxi Driver' began on June 5, 2016, and concluded
on October 24, 2016. The film was directed by Jang Hoon and written by Eom Yu-na. It stars Song Kang-ho in the lead role, alongside Thomas Kretschmann, Yoo Hae-jin, and Ryu Jun-yeol. The narrative is based on the real-life experiences of a taxi driver and German journalist Jürgen Hinzpeter, who documented the Gwangju Uprising.
During the filming, the production faced several challenges, including government censorship. The main actor, Song Kang-ho, was blacklisted by the government from appearing in major films. Despite these obstacles, the film was completed and prepared for release, capturing the emotional and historical significance of the Gwangju Uprising.
Release and International Premiere
'A Taxi Driver' was released in South Korea on August 2, 2017. On the same day, it had its international premiere at the Fantasia International Film Festival in Montreal, where Song Kang-ho was awarded Best Actor for his performance. The film was subsequently released in North America, Australia, New Zealand, and several Asian countries, including Hong Kong, Taiwan, and Japan.
The film's release was met with significant attention, including a viewing by South Korean President Moon Jae-in, who watched the film with the widow of Jürgen Hinzpeter. President Moon praised the film for its portrayal of the Gwangju Uprising and its contribution to understanding South Korea's democratization.
Critical and Commercial Success
'A Taxi Driver' received positive reviews from critics, with a 97% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Critics praised the film for its emotional impact and its portrayal of the Gwangju Uprising. The film was also a commercial success, becoming the second highest-grossing South Korean film of 2017 and the fifteenth highest-grossing South Korean film in history.
The film's success was not limited to South Korea. It resonated with international audiences, particularly for its depiction of historical trauma and its ability to educate viewers about the Gwangju Uprising. 'A Taxi Driver' stands as a testament to the power of cinema in preserving history and promoting understanding across cultures.
