'Bedford Park' director tells Korean American story she wanted to see
BUSAN — Stephanie Ahn, director of the American drama film "Bedford Park," said Thursday her longing to see a film that deeply explores the Korean American experience inspired her to make her first feature. The film, which won the U.S. Dramatic Special Jury Award for Debut Feature at Sundance, portrays an unlikely bond between Korean American physical therapist Audrey (Moon Choi) and Eli (Son…
Stephanie Ahn, the director of the American drama film Bedford Park, revealed on Thursday that her desire to see a film that authentically portrayed the Korean American experience motivated her to create her directorial debut. The film, which secured the U.S. Dramatic Special Jury Award for Debut Feature at Sundance, tells the story of an unexpected connection between Korean American physical therapist Audrey (played by Moon Choi) and Eli (played by Son Suk-ku), a Korean immigrant who was adopted by a white family.
While numerous Korean American and Asian American films have been made, Ahn expressed that many of them merely skimmed the surface of these communities' experiences. During a press conference at the Busan International Film Festival (BIFF), Ahn explained, "I felt they touched upon the Korean or Asian American experience in sort of a surface level."
She emphasized that Bedford Park doesn't shy away from exploring the characters' backgrounds and surroundings, delving deep into their family traumas and personal struggles. Through a genuine portrayal, Ahn aimed to ensure that viewers feel seen and understood on a personal level.
Written by urgent.news from The Korea Times's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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