In the intimate and revealing Netflix documentary 'Persona: Sulli', viewers are given a rare insight into the life and struggles of the late K-pop star Sulli, also known as Choi Jinri. Released as a segment of her final work 'Persona: Sulli,' the documentary, which aired on November 13, presents a deeply personal portrait of an artist grappling with fame and identity.
'Persona: Sulli' contrasts with the conventional glitz of the K-pop industry, offering a candid look at Sulli's inner thoughts and challenges. Through interview-style narration, Sulli herself guides the audience through her life's journey, discussing the burdens of beauty and the objectification she faced as a public figure. She reflects on her childhood, her complex relationship with her mother, and her views on the K-pop industry, revealing her multiple identities and her struggle to reconcile them.
A notable segment of the documentary highlights Sulli's contemplation on the dehumanization of idols, where she painfully recalls being treated as a product, expected to conform to public tastes. Her comments on the necessity of a labor union for idols and her criticism of the industry's treatment of women add layers to the narrative.
In more personal moments, Sulli shares her aspirations, like her dream of making dolls, and her frustrations with adapting to new changes in life, symbolized by her struggle with a new phone. The documentary also touches upon her views on feminism, contrasting the societal double standards for men and women, particularly in the context of her experience with going braless.
The documentary concludes with Sulli in a contemplative state, symbolizing her ongoing internal dialogue and search for peace. The release of 'Persona: Sulli' has elicited a wave of empathy and sadness among viewers and netizens, who expressed their heartbreak over Sulli's struggles and the pressure she faced in the limelight. Many reflected on the ongoing challenges faced by idols and the need for greater support and understanding for public figures.
'Persona: Sulli serves as a poignant reminder of the human behind the celebrity, offering a raw and unfiltered glimpse into Sulli's life, thoughts, and the battles she fought behind the scenes. It stands as a testament to her legacy and a call for more empathy and humanity in the world of entertainment.
The release of 'Persona: Sulli' has sparked discussions on the need for more empathy and support for public figures.
Netizens have expressed heartache and sympathy after watching the documentary. Comments like "Sulli, I miss you," and "I think she would have lived happily as an ordinary person with more freedom rather than as a celebrity," highlight the emotional impact of the film. Others reflect on the ongoing challenges idols face, with remarks such as, "Even after this, people would still criticize idols if they said things are challenging," and "Her last words are making my heart feel heavy."
