Minari

      

       This semi-autobiographical drama by writer/director Lee Isaac Chung has been nominated for 6 Academy Awards this year, including best picture.

       It tells the story of a Korean family trying to succeed in rural Arkansas in the 1980's. Steven Yuen plays Jacob, the father, who is determined to farm the land growing Korean vegetables. Han Ye-Ri plays his wife Monica, torn between her loyalty and love for her husband and her family's well-being.  Their children are played by Noel Kate Cho as Anne and Alan Kim as her younger brother, David. Master Kim is adorable and a terrific little actor. He steals the film as well as your heart. Also co-starring is Youn Yuh-Jung as their not so typical Grandmother and veteran actor Will Patton as Paul, Jacob's farmhand.

      A very original story, it plays against the stereotypical direction you might expect. It is very much about the little things that happen and the consequences that follow. It is filled with wonderful moments throughout the film. A timely story of immigrants determined for a better life. 

     Available now on VOD or in theaters.