The Way Home

The Way Home

Year: 2002

Runtime: 80 min

Language: English

Director: Jeong-hyang Lee

Drama

In this stirring drama, a tight-knit rural community comes together to support a grief-stricken family in their desperate search for their two-year-old son, lost and alone. As the search unfolds, secrets are revealed, and the true power of human connection is tested against the crushing uncertainty of the unknown.

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Timeline & Setting – The Way Home (2002)
Explore the full timeline and setting of The Way Home (2002). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

The story unfolds in contemporary South Korea, reflecting modern societal challenges and familial dynamics. It highlights the relationship between a city boy and his rural grandmother during a summer visit, capturing timeless themes of growth and understanding across generations.

Location

Quaint Korean village, Countryside

The film is set in a quaint Korean village, characterized by its simplicity and natural beauty. The rural landscape is marked by modest homes, farming fields, and a close-knit community. This serene environment starkly contrasts with the urban life Sang-woo is accustomed to, emphasizing the cultural and generational divide.

🏡 Village 🌾 Countryside

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 20:02

Main Characters – The Way Home (2002)
Meet the key characters of The Way Home (2002), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Sang-woo (Seung-ho Yu)

Sang-woo is a seven-year-old city boy initially portrayed as spoiled and rude towards his grandmother. His contempt for her rural lifestyle highlights his immaturity. However, through various experiences during his stay, he evolves, ultimately recognizing and valuing her love and sacrifices.

👶 Child 👎 Anger

Grandmother (Eul-boon Kim)

The grandmother is a resilient 78-year-old woman who, despite her inability to speak, exhibits deep love and care for her grandson. Struggling with her own hardships yet remaining nurturing, she embodies selflessness and strength, ultimately becoming a pivotal figure in Sang-woo's emotional growth.

👵 Elderly 💖 Love

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 20:02

Major Themes – The Way Home (2002)
Explore the central themes of The Way Home (2002), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

❤️ Family

Family bonds and unconditional love are central themes in the movie. As Sang-woo navigates his resentment towards his grandmother, he gradually learns to appreciate her sacrifices and kindness. The film poignantly illustrates how familial relationships can evolve through understanding and shared experiences.

💔 Isolation

The theme of isolation is evident in both Sang-woo's initial rejection of his grandmother and her own loneliness due to her old age and mute condition. This isolation is challenged as they slowly begin to connect, prompting reflections on empathy and human connection despite differences.

🌱 Growth

Personal growth is a prominent theme as Sang-woo transitions from indifference to affection for his grandmother. His experiences in the village teach him important lessons about compassion, responsibility, and the value of relationships, marking a significant change in his character by the end of the film.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 20:02

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