Lee Chang-dong was on set in Gunsan, South Korea, making 'Possible Love,' his first feature film in eight years. At seventy-two years old, Lee, dressed in casual attire, moved at a relaxed pace reminiscent of his background as a novelist. The film is inspired by a real labor dispute involving SsangYong Motor, which announced significant layoffs in 2009, affecting approximately 2,600 workers. The layoffs led to protests, including a sitdown strike, and resulted in tragic outcomes for some workers involved.
The narrative of 'Possible Love' explores the aftermath of the layoffs through the lives of characters such as Ho-seok, a former welder, and his wife Mi-ok, as well as filmmaker Ye-ji, who aims to document the events. The film's setting includes a simulated encampment reminiscent of the actual protests, where Lee and his crew worked to capture the essence of the workers' experiences.
Lee's filmmaking style is characterized by a commitment to realism, often using nonactors and striving for authenticity in performances. He has been compared to notable filmmakers like John Cassavetes and Krzysztof Kieślowski, and his work is recognized for its literary approach and political consciousness.
Lee's early life in Daegu, South Korea, was marked by poverty and a strong influence from his mother, who supported the family through her sewing work. His interest in storytelling developed during childhood, leading him to pursue a career in film and literature despite the challenges posed by the political climate in South Korea during his youth.
'Possible Love' reflects Lee's ongoing engagement with social issues and his unique artistic vision, continuing a legacy of critically acclaimed cinema that addresses the complexities of human experience and societal struggles.