Minari

Named after a Korean herb that keeps its character wherever it grows, director Lee Isaac Chung's delicate family drama offers a distinct and deeply personal take on immigrant struggle. The semi-autobiographical story unfolds through the eyes of David (Alan S Kim), a seven-year-old newly relocated from California to Arkansas with his Korean-American family. Despite his father's faith in the American Dream, things do not go to plan; meanwhile, David spends much of his time clashing and - slowly - connecting with his wily grandma, Soonja (Oscar-winning Youn Yuh-jung). Though the set-up seems sown for tragedy or something more sentimental, Chung's granular approach finds vivid life in microscopic details and supple tonal shifts. Parental clashes are handled with nuanced complexity, while David's bond with Soonja adds wit and warmth. Though the narrative focus drifts, the lovingly tended result is a gentle character piece with a flavour of its own, rich in empathy and unforced charm.