Today's IDFA viewing tip is for a special film about a special man, Sun Mu. That's not his real name, it means 'without borders'. And that is very appropriate for this artist. For years, he was a successful propaganda artist for the regime in North Korea. Until he ventured the great crossing. He swam (literally!) to freedom and has lived in South Korea since the 1990s. Artist he still is, and his work certainly has political overtones, alongside a cheerful, almost naive look. And the crazy thing is, he does not look back at his native country with bitterness.
The documentary begins with the preparations for his exhibition in China. It is a precarious affair because China and North Korea are allies: Sun Mu fears for his own safety and that of his family and friends. There is a good chance that the North Koreans want to execute him, and if he is killed, so are his family and friends, probably. At some point after the opening, the museum, with all the guests inside, is surrounded. No one is allowed in or out and all the guests are questioned. Fortunately, it seems to end with a hiss...
Sun Mu's safety must always be feared, that much is clear. As such, he cannot be depicted recognisably on screen either. Pretty tricky for the subject of a documentary. Still, director Adam Sjoberg has made a fine portrait of the man. He uses the paintings to make animations, for instance. Thus, not only the content but also the form is worthwhile.
I Am Sun Mu premiered at the festival in the DMZ, the demilitarised zone between the two Koreas.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vF164C9Oi4c
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