Young-goon, mentally deranged and frequently electro-charging herself with a transistor radio, has been admitted into a mental institution. Firmly believing herself to be a cyborg, she refuses to consume like a human being. Il-soon is another patient, who catches the eye of Young-goon and soon becomes a close friend. Il-soon is now confronted with the biggest task: to cure Young-goon’s mental problem and have her eat real food.
I’m a Cyborg, but That’s OK is a unique romantic comedy directed by Park Chan-wook, known for his darker films like Oldboy and Lady Vengeance. The movie revolves around Cha Young-goon (played by Im Soo-jung), a young woman who believes she is a cyborg. She has been admitted to a psychiatric hospital after attempting suicide, convinced that she can only survive by recharging herself through batteries. Her delusions make her an eccentric and intriguing character, as she refuses to eat and instead licks batteries to gain energy.
The story takes a turn when she meets Park Il-soon (Rain), another patient who is diagnosed with anti-social behavior and a penchant for stealing from others. Il-soon becomes fascinated by Young-goon and decides to help her, despite his own emotional detachment. As he observes her, Il-soon starts to develop feelings for her, and his own emotional growth begins. Their relationship evolves as they find solace in each other’s quirks, leading to a journey of self-discovery and love.
The film explores themes of mental illness, self-identity, and the power of human connection. Young-goon’s belief that she is a cyborg represents her struggle with her identity and the trauma she has experienced. Her refusal to eat and reliance on batteries symbolize her attempt to detach from the human world, which she feels has betrayed her. Il-soon, on the other hand, represents the possibility of change and emotional healing. His journey from an apathetic, self-centered person to someone capable of love highlights the transformative power of empathy.
The film also touches on the idea of magical realism, where elements of fantasy are blended with reality. This is evident in the portrayal of Young-goon’s delusions, which are treated as real experiences within the context of the film. The quirky, surreal elements of the story give it a unique charm, but also serve as a vehicle for deeper exploration of human emotions and relationships.
I’m a Cyborg, but That’s OK stands out as a departure from Park Chan-wook’s usual genre of intense thrillers and revenge dramas. It is a film that blends dark humor, psychological exploration, and romance in a way that feels fresh and unconventional. The movie’s unusual premise and quirky characters make it a standout in the romantic comedy genre, offering a deeper, more introspective take on love and mental health.
While the film was not a major commercial success, it garnered critical acclaim for its originality and emotional depth. It won the Alfred Bauer Prize at the Berlin International Film Festival and was praised for its performances, particularly by Rain and Im Soo-jung. The film’s unconventional narrative and visual style also contributed to its lasting impact on audiences and critics alike.
After watching I’m a Cyborg, but That’s OK, you may feel a mixture of emotions. The film’s quirky humor and surreal elements will likely leave you amused and intrigued. However, as the story progresses, the emotional depth of the characters will touch you, making you reflect on themes of love, empathy, and the human experience. The unconventional love story will likely evoke a sense of warmth and understanding, even as it presents a dark and whimsical portrayal of mental illness.
The film’s ending may leave you with a bittersweet feeling, as it explores the complexities of healing and human connection. While the narrative may seem odd or even unsettling at times, it ultimately offers a message of hope and redemption through the power of love and empathy. You’ll likely feel a deep sense of appreciation for the characters’ journey and the unique way the film addresses important psychological and emotional themes
