The documentary film "Dear Jinri" captures the profound longing that cannot be erased. At the same time, there are concerns surrounding "Dear Jinri."
"Dear Jinri" began filming in the second half of 2019, aiming for a 2020 release. However, with Sulli's passing in October 2019, it became her posthumous work. The film features Sulli's last interviews and various aspects of her life.
Premiered at the 28th Busan International Film Festival, "Dear Jinri" was deeper, more sincere, and more serious than expected. It candidly portrays Sulli's lifelong struggle with the "pretty girl complex," memories of her childhood longing for her mother, painful recollections of feeling commodified during her idol days, times when she was labeled as an "attention-seeker," and the controversies surrounding her feminist declarations.
A particularly poignant moment in the film shows Sulli shedding tears as she discusses her decision to sue online trolls, saying, "I was hurt in the process of suing." The film reveals sides of Sulli she never showed during her lifetime.
As Sulli cried on the screen, the audience cried with her. The theater was filled with the sound of sobbing.
Some have expressed reservations about the release of "Dear Jinri." They believe it might be better left unreleased. Although the film has the consent of Sulli's family, the late Sulli cannot express her opinions on the work. There's also concern that the film, containing potentially controversial content, might be consumed more for its sensational aspects than as a tribute.
In response, director Jung Yoon-seok stated, "The protagonist agreed to the interviews with the principle of public disclosure. The late Sulli raised many significant issues in our society. It could be about women's issues, issues concerning the marginalized, or equality. It might also touch upon the values of the younger generation or stories between mother and daughter."
He added, "What we deemed most important was highlighting her as an artist. We believe that, in its own way, it can be a genuine tribute."
