“History doesn’t repeat itself, but it often rhymes.” Houman Seyedi’s World War III starts with this quote oft-attributed to Mark Twain. One of the four Iranian titles premiering at Venice this year and the director’s sixth feature, the Orizzonti section finalist proves a bracing slow-burner that leaves you gaping by the time the credits start…
Where Words Fail, Music Speaks – Wonho Takes Over Indigo at the O2 in London
What makes K-pop such a global phenomenon? There are many reasons: ingenious approach to music videos, sophisticated choreography, the charming personalities of idols, and catchy songs. Although lyrics might not always be relatable, the melody itself can be enough to hook listeners. But what about vocal abilities? While I am strict in my judgement when…
A Night to Remember – JUNNY Shows off His Vocal Talent at The Garage in London
The Garage is one of the most iconic music venues in London. Although average in its capacity, the artists who have passed through its doors over the years include Green Day, Muse, Red Hot Chilli Peppers, My Chemical Romance, and Oasis. On August 28th, JUNNY, a Korean-Canadian R&B singer came to The Garage to perform…
“Laundromat on the Corner” Review
The Laundromat on the Corner is a 17-minute short film and the directorial debut of Japanese producer and writer, Tetsuki Ijichi. While it takes the form of a traditional “Asian” ghost story, it uses this form to relate an intercultural love story, which crosses not only cultures but also the boundary between life and death….
“A Wicked Tale” Review
A Wicked Tale is an experimental film that reworks the cautionary story of Little Red Riding Hood. With a running time of just over 44 minutes, Singaporean director Tzang Merwyn Tong’s debut feature premiered at the 34th Rotterdam International Film Festival in 2005. While there are numerous versions of Little Red Riding Hood across cultures,…
Let the Music Play! Let SUNMI Sing! – SUNMI Brings Refreshing Energy to London’s Troxy
Troxy, London. The clock strikes 8 pm, the lights fade away, and music begins to play. SUNMI, to the piercing cheers of her fans, appears on stage alongside her dancers. She commences her performance with Siren, an enchanting song from her 2018 EP, Warning, which is inspired by the retro beats of the 80s. Following…
“When I Listen To Music That I Like, My Heart Beats Way Too Fast” – In Conversation with SUNMI, a Singer, Dancer and Record Producer
What makes a great singer? It is hard to answer such a question. We all have our own music preferences, so it can be difficult to stay objective when discussing our favourite artists. However, when you find a singer who is able to deliver every note, every word, and every emotion, you will instantly know…
“The Roundup” Review
When The Outlaws, written and directed by Kang Yoon-sung, came out in 2017, the film became the third highest-grossing film of that year in South Korea. The production had enough thrills and suspense to satisfy even the most jaded sensation-seekers. It took a few years before the second instalment, The Roundup, was released onto the…
“Perhaps Love” Review
Do not be fooled by the title: Perhaps Love is not your typical rom-com. In fact, it is not a rom-com at all. This emotionally honest, amusing screwball comedy offers us different angles on what love is and what it can be, more in line with the Greek differentiations of the concept. The most interesting…
“I Wanted to Describe My Emotion and Experiences with “blanc” Album.” – In Conversation with JUNNY, a Singer-songwriter
When I first met Kim Hyeong-Jun, a.k.a JUNNY, it was a scorching day in Seoul. We met nearby Hongdae, sat down on a white sofa, and spent hours chatting like we had known each other for a really long time. By then, I was already aware of what a one of a kind talent JUNNY…
Pure Vocal Perfection – Kim Woojin Takes Over O2 Academy Islington
Kim Woojin, a 25-year-old South Korean K-pop singer, is well known for his great vocals. Whilst he began his career as a member of an idol group, he later chose a different path in life and began a successful solo career. In August of 2021, Woojin released his first mini-album, The Moment: 未成年, a Minor,…
“For Me, Performing Live Is Vital” – In Conversation with Woojin, a K-pop Idol
“My career towards music has been very natural. I always knew music was [something] I wanted to do. I also went to an art-centric high school, and [in all honesty] I have never considered any other career apart from being an artist”, Woojin confesses when asked about the role of music in the early years…
MIK Festival 2022: Hip-Hop Day Review
There is no denying that the Korean music industry is mainly associated with K-pop, which often draws on Hip-hop whether this is obvious to listeners or not. What’s more interesting is that Hip-hop has now become an indispensable part of K-pop and, while the latter is the one with the most popular tunes around the…
MIK Festival 2022: K-Pop Day Review
The UK has always been famous for its incredible music festivals. Since the 1960s, the country’s outdoor music events have boasted diverse line-ups and a variety of music genres to offer fans. Whether it is Pop, Jazz, Hip-hop, Rock or Metal, there is always something for everyone. But what about K-pop? This particular music genre…
VIEW OF THE ARTS 