[Local and Foreign Films With English Subtitles]

▣ Miso (A Smile) (2003)
Seoul Selection Bookstore
Saturday at noon
This film shows the significance of a smile after a tragedy has been experienced. So-jong (Chu Sang-mi) is one day diagnosed with pigmentary degeneration of the retina, which doctors say will eventually lead to a total loss of sight. The disease is fatal to So-jong, a professional photographer, and she gives up her plan to study abroad with her lover Ji-sok (Song Il-gon) and breaks up with him. The film then proceeds to show So-jong as she copes with her disease and attempts to find a new perspective on life. Her travels lead her to visit her family in the country, look for solace in the darkness of an ancient tomb in Kyongju, and spend time at a secluded pilot training center where she learns to fly. The movie shows how the disease paradoxically allows So-jong to face life's existential questions. On DVD. Located near Anguk Station on subway line 3. Tickets: 3,000 won. Details: (02) 734-9565 or www.seoulselection.com.

-Provided by Seoul Selection

▣ Join Security Area (2000)
Tuesdays at 4 p.m.
KNTO Building

This acclaimed film by Park Chan-wook, who also directed "Old Boy", looks at a friendship that develops among South and North Korean soldiers serving at the DMZ. Located near exit 5 of Chonggak Station on subway line 1. Free. Details: (02) 729-9497/8.