【Beneath Bong Joon-ho’s Lens】 Memories of Murder (South Korea, 2003, R16)

Rating: R16 – Restricted to persons 16 years and over; contains violence, offensive language & sex scenes.

Based on your votes, we’re diving into the cinematic world of Bong Joon-ho this May—screening two of his most compelling works: Memories of Murder and Mother.

Bong Joon-ho, best known internationally for Parasite, has long been a master of blending genre with sharp social commentary. From haunting mysteries to deeply human dramas, his films captivate with striking visuals, tonal precision, and a quiet, simmering tension. Join us as we explore two early masterpieces that reveal the emotional and political depths of his storytelling.

Part One: Memories of Murder
Based on Korea’s first serial murder case, Memories of Murder is a gripping crime drama that transcends genre. Bong Joon-ho weaves suspense, dark humor, and biting social commentary into a story about two detectives—one brash and instinctive, the other coldly rational—grappling with a case that offers no clear answers.

Set against the backdrop of 1980s political unrest, the film captures the chaos and futility of a system under pressure. With atmospheric cinematography, complex characters, and a haunting sense of ambiguity, Memories of Murder is not just a thriller—it’s a meditation on failure, obsession, and the human cost of uncertainty.

After the discussion, stick around to chat, debate, and connect with fellow cinephiles. Whether you're here for the thrill or the themes, there's always more beneath the surface in a Bong Joon-ho film.

Location: Ellen Melville Centre, 2 Freyberg Place, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1000
Date and Time: Sunday, May 4, 2025, at 3:30 PM
Fee: Free entry!

Note: We’re hosting the event on the second floor of the Ellen Melville Center. Please use the entrance on the right side of the building on the ground floor. Once you go up to the second floor, you’ll see our venue right there.

Please try to arrive on time, and if you have any trouble getting in, feel free to send me a text message at 0274306328 – Rick.