1987: When the Day Comes (2017) NYAFF 2018

One of the best films at this year's New York Asian Film Festival is also one of the best films I've seen in 2018. A moving retelling of the events of the events of the democratic uprising in South Korea that followed the death of a student activist who was in the custody of the anti-communist wing of the government. As their attempt cover up the death goes instantly off the rails long simmering resentment in the country boils over.

Somehow managing to both get the epic scope of the story  and the small scale human story right 1987 will move you to tears. By the time the film hit the end credits with actual footage of the protests and the memorial service I was misty.

Beautifully acted by a stellar cast this is a fil clearly near and dear to everyone's hearts since everyone is great. Not only great but truly invisible. Sure there was a momentary  "oh look..." when a few people walked on screen, but mostly I just went with it and if you pressed me now as to who was in it or who anyone played I couldn't tell you.

Making the film all the more resonate for this non-Korean is the state of America. In a time where out leader would love to silence the press and have storm troopers crush his enemies, 1987 acts as a warning to any two bit tyrant that the people will only take so much before they will throw them out on their ass.

I don't know what to say beyond this is a great film and you must see it.

For tickets and more information on the NYAFF screening go here.

It plays July 25 and 27 at Fantasia. (more information here)