Minari, directed by Lee Isaac Chung and released in 2020, is a deeply moving drama about a Korean-American family’s pursuit of the American Dream. Set in the 1980s, the film centers on the Yi family, who move to rural Arkansas in hopes of building a better life by starting a farm. A semi-autobiographical work inspired by Chung’s own childhood, Minari touches on universal themes of resilience, family bonds, and cultural identity while offering an intimate glimpse into the immigrant experience in America.
Plot Summary
The Yi family, consisting of Jacob (Steven Yeun), Monica (Han Ye-ri), their young children David (Alan Kim) and Anne (Noel Cho), and eventually Monica’s mother Soon-ja (Youn Yuh-jung), relocates from California to a plot of farmland in Arkansas. Jacob dreams of cultivating Korean produce to sell to a growing immigrant community, convinced that this venture will secure his family’s future and independence. However, his wife Monica is skeptical of the move, worried about their financial instability and the isolation of their new environment.
David, the youngest child, struggles with a heart condition, and his health is a constant source of anxiety for the family. When Soon-ja joins them, her unconventional behavior—playing cards, swearing, and drinking Mountain Dew—clashes with David’s expectations of what a grandmother should be. Despite their initial friction, a bond forms between them that becomes central to the film.
As the family adjusts to their new life, they face numerous challenges: the farm’s irrigation issues, cultural and social isolation, and the strain on Jacob and Monica’s marriage. The arrival of a charismatic yet eccentric farmhand, Paul (Will Patton), adds another layer of complexity to their lives. Amid these struggles, the Yi family’s resilience and love for one another shine through, culminating in moments of hope and heartbreak.
Themes and Messages
The American Dream and Resilience
At the heart of Minari is the quintessential pursuit of the American Dream. Jacob’s determination to build a thriving farm symbolizes the immigrant’s aspiration for success and independence in a new land. His belief in hard work and self-reliance drives him to take risks, even at the cost of his family’s stability. However, the film also challenges the idealized notion of the American Dream, highlighting the sacrifices and uncertainties it entails.
Jacob’s struggles with the farm underscore the unpredictability of life and the perseverance required to overcome adversity. His journey reflects the experiences of countless immigrants who have faced similar hardships while striving to carve out a place for themselves and their families.
Cultural Identity and Assimilation
Minari thoughtfully explores the complexities of cultural identity and assimilation. The Yi family straddles two worlds: their Korean heritage and their new life in rural America. This duality is evident in their language, food, and customs, as well as in their interactions with neighbors and the local community.
David and Anne, as second-generation immigrants, navigate this cultural intersection in different ways. While they are more comfortable speaking English and adopting American norms, they also maintain a connection to their Korean roots through their family’s traditions and values. The tension between preserving cultural identity and adapting to a new environment is a recurring theme that resonates with audiences from diverse backgrounds.
Family and Intergenerational Bonds
The film’s emotional core lies in its portrayal of family dynamics and intergenerational relationships. The Yi family’s journey is marked by love, conflict, and moments of quiet connection. Jacob and Monica’s differing priorities create tension in their marriage, yet their shared commitment to their children anchors them. Meanwhile, the bond between David and his grandmother Soon-ja evolves into one of the film’s most touching elements.
Soon-ja, with her unapologetically unconventional ways, serves as a bridge between past and present, tradition and change. Her relationship with David highlights the power of love and understanding to transcend generational and cultural divides. Her resilience and humor become a source of strength for the family, even in the face of tragedy.
Nature and Growth
The title Minari refers to a Korean water celery that Soon-ja plants by a nearby creek. This humble plant becomes a metaphor for resilience and adaptability, thriving in challenging conditions and providing nourishment. The minari’s growth mirrors the family’s journey, symbolizing hope, renewal, and the enduring strength of their roots.
Nature plays a significant role throughout the film, reflecting the family’s connection to the land and their struggles to cultivate it. The beauty and unpredictability of the natural world serve as both a source of solace and a reminder of life’s fragility.
Cinematic Excellence
Direction and Writing
Lee Isaac Chung’s direction is marked by a gentle, observational style that allows the story to unfold organically. The screenplay, written by Chung, is deeply personal yet universal in its themes, capturing the nuances of family life and the immigrant experience with authenticity and sensitivity. By drawing from his own childhood memories, Chung creates a narrative that feels intimate and heartfelt.
Performances
The cast of Minari delivers outstanding performances that bring the characters to life. Steven Yeun as Jacob portrays a complex and determined father torn between his ambitions and his responsibilities. Han Ye-ri captures Monica’s quiet strength and vulnerability, embodying a mother’s unwavering devotion to her children.
Youn Yuh-jung’s portrayal of Soon-ja earned her widespread acclaim, including an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress. Her performance is both humorous and deeply moving, adding depth and humanity to the film. Alan Kim, as the mischievous yet tender-hearted David, steals hearts with his natural and endearing performance.
Cinematography and Music
The cinematography by Lachlan Milne beautifully captures the rural Arkansas landscape, emphasizing the contrast between the family’s dreams and the harsh realities they face. The use of light and space creates a sense of intimacy and warmth, drawing viewers into the Yi family’s world.
Emile Mosseri’s evocative score enhances the film’s emotional resonance, blending traditional Korean influences with contemporary sounds. The music serves as an integral part of the storytelling, reflecting the film’s themes of hope and perseverance.
Critical and Cultural Impact
Minari received widespread critical acclaim for its poignant storytelling and universal themes. It was lauded as a groundbreaking film that brought greater visibility to Asian-American narratives in mainstream cinema. The film earned numerous accolades, including the Golden Globe for Best Foreign Language Film and six Academy Award nominations, with Youn Yuh-jung’s historic win marking a significant moment for representation.
Beyond its awards and recognition, Minari resonated deeply with audiences worldwide. Its exploration of family, identity, and resilience struck a chord with viewers from all walks of life, transcending cultural and linguistic barriers. The film’s success also sparked important conversations about diversity and inclusion in Hollywood, highlighting the need for more stories that reflect the experiences of marginalized communities.
