Watch Kim Kong

Kim Kong is a captivating television series that aired on Sundance Now in 2017. This show cleverly navigates the unfamiliar territory of behind-the-scenes filmmaking in an authoritarian regime, shining a unique light on modern North Korean society through its humorous yet insightful portrayal. This engaging French miniseries offers viewers a captivating blend of drama, humor, and heart.

Kim Kong closely follows the story of a once successful and now struggling filmmaker, Mathieu Stannis. Standards in the film industry have taken a dive, and he finds himself pressured to make low-budget, high-grossing blockbuster films that lack artistic value. The role of Stannis is brilliantly enacted by Jonathan Lambert, who captures the essence of a suffering artist lost amidst commercial filmmaking.

However, Mathieu's life takes an abrupt turn when he is abruptly kidnapped by an Asian dictatorship, which is never explicitly mentioned but highly resembles North Korea. The authorities of this regime coerce him into making a giant monster movie. The ruler of this peculiar land possesses an eccentric disposition towards cinema, especially French films, which he wishes to recreate with his own eccentric touch.

The series masterfully explores the blend of a Western artist's perspective in an Eastern totalitarian regime. Mathieu finds himself facing a major culture clash and grappling with communicating his artistic vision to a crew that operates under a completely different work ethic. The film set becomes a microcosm of the broader socio-political context of the regime, highlighting the stark contrast and conflicts between thought control and creative freedom.

As Mathieu navigates this unusual circumstance, he is faced with a host of unique characters that add richness and depth to the narrative. From his hard-nosed, no-nonsense cinematographer to the keen and quick-thinking interpreter, each character offers a glimpse into the world behind the iron curtain. This varied cast of characters not only helps to heighten the comedic elements of the series but also serves to underscore the complex human realities that exist within authoritarian societies.

One of Kim Kong's most remarkable features is its cinematography style - blending reality with elements of the surreal, mirroring the contrasting elements of Mathieu's reality and his imposed upon film-making task. The series features stunning visual effects and a richly atmospheric soundtrack that truly sets it apart. The visual aesthetics of the show are an exquisite blend of absurdity and realism, balancing between the familiar and the bizarre, which reflects perfectly on the conflicting situations Mathieu finds himself in.

While the series often treads on a humorous and absurd note, it never shies away from delivering sharp social commentary. It throws light on the power dynamics and limitations experienced by workers in the film industry working under repressive regimes. The misinterpretation of orders, the layered bureaucracy, the censorship - all these crucial aspects are depicted in an entertaining but poignant manner.

On a broader level, Kim Kong is an exploration of identity, with Mathieu grappling with his artistic ethics and moral obligations. As the series progresses, characters evolve, revealing unexpected layers of their existence, contributing to an ever-thickening plot that keeps the viewers eagerly anticipating each new turn of events.

Moreover, the series shows a clever use of the language barrier to drive forward its plot, underscoring the importance of communication, and the complications and miscommunications that arise from language differences. This element of the show adds a gripping layer to the ongoing tension in the series.

In summary, Kim Kong is a thrilling and thoughtful miniseries that marries art and politics in a most unexpected way. Through its unique premise and brilliant execution, the show provides a fresh perspective on the power of cinema and the transformative experiences it holds for both creators and audiences alike. Whether you're a fan of dark humor, gripping narratives, or thought-provoking storylines, this Sundance Now series promises a viewing experience you won't soon forget.