Watch When I Turned Nine

When I Turned Nine is a heartwarming Korean film that follows the life of a young boy named Soon-gwi as he turns nine years old. The movie is set in the 1960s and takes place in a rural village in Korea. It was released in 2004 and directed by Yoon In-ho. The story begins with Soon-gwi eagerly awaiting his ninth birthday. As the youngest of six siblings, he is the last one to turn nine in his family, and he is excited about the prospect of finally being considered a big boy. His family, however, is struggling to make ends meet, and his father works long hours in a factory to provide for them.

Soon-gwi's life takes a turn when he is involved in a serious accident while playing with his friends. This event causes him to reflect on his own mortality and makes him realize that life is fragile. It also forces him to confront some of the harsh realities of the world around him, such as poverty and the struggle to survive.

Despite these challenges, Soon-gwi remains optimistic and finds joy in the simple things in life, such as playing with his dog and spending time with his family. He also develops a deep bond with a new teacher at his school, Miss Yun, who encourages him to pursue his dreams and helps him see the world in a new light.

The film is filled with moments of tenderness and humor, as well as poignant reminders of the difficulties that people faced in Korea at that time. As Soon-gwi grows and learns, he comes to understand the sacrifices that his parents make for him and his siblings. He also learns about the importance of friendship, community, and compassion.

Throughout the movie, the audience is treated to beautiful cinematography that captures the natural beauty of the Korean countryside. The scenery serves to underscore the film's gentle message of hope and renewal, as well as the enduring power of human connection.

The acting in When I Turned Nine is top-notch, with Seok Kim delivering a standout performance as Soon-gwi. He brings an infectious enthusiasm and a childlike wonder to the role, making it easy for viewers to empathize with his experiences and emotions. Se-yeong Lee is also excellent as Miss Yun, bringing a warmth and empathy to her character that makes her a wonderful mentor and friend to Soon-gwi.

Myeong-jae Kim, who plays Soon-gwi's father, is equally impressive in his portrayal of a hardworking and devoted family man. He conveys a quiet strength and stoicism that serves as a counterpoint to the more exuberant performances of his younger co-stars.

Overall, When I Turned Nine is a touching and resonant film that is sure to leave a lasting impression on viewers. It is a timeless tale of childhood innocence and wonder that is made all the more poignant by its historical context. Whether you are a fan of Korean cinema or simply looking for a heartwarming story that celebrates the human spirit, this movie is a must-see.

When I Turned Nine is a 2004 kids & family movie. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.4.