Banga Talyeong: A slow, heavy watch about lost time

Is it worth your time?

If you like movies that let you sit in the silence of regret, maybe. If you want a fast-paced drama, look elsewhere. Banga Talyeong is a heavy, slow-burning look at what happens when the world moves on without you. It’s definitely not a date-night flick unless you want to feel absolutely crushed by the end of the second act.

Watching the protagonist walk back into his hometown after four decades is just… painful. The way the director frames his face when he finally spots her, it’s not some big Hollywood reunion. It’s just confusing and sad.

Small moments that hit hard

There’s this one shot of his hands. They look completely different than they did in his memories. He’s reaching for a gate that isn't even painted the same color anymore.

The pacing is a bit of a mess, honestly. Some scenes feel like they drag on for an hour, especially the ones inside the prison yard. You can practically hear the clock ticking on the wall. It reminded me a bit of the suffocating atmosphere in Hara-Kiri, though without the swords and the blood.

• The lighting in the final scene is weirdly blue.
• I swear the background music cuts out way too abruptly.
• Yeong Shim looks genuinely terrified, not just acting.

It’s hard not to compare this to The Lady in terms of how it handles grief, but this feels way more grounded. It’s not trying to be a big statement on politics. It’s just a story about a guy who missed the bus, and the bus never came back.

Some people will probably hate the lack of closure. The movie just stops. It doesn't tell you how to feel or if he finds peace. He just stands there on the road, and then the credits roll. I sat there for a minute just staring at the black screen, feeling kind of annoyed but also weirdly satisfied. 🎥

It’s a bit of a chore to get through, but the last ten minutes? They stick with you like glue. Don't expect a polished masterpiece. Expect something messy, quiet, and a little bit hollow.