FANTASIA FEST 2022: ‘Chun Tae-Il: The Flame that Lives On’ is a Piece of History

Fantasia International Film Festival’s animation slate offers up a diversity of animation types and genres. In Chun Tae-Il: The Flame that Lives On, audiences get a window into 1960s South Korea and the real-life fight for labor rights through the lens and self-sacrifice of one man, Chun Tae-Il. Directed by Jun-Pyo Hong, Chun Tae-Il: The Flame that Lives On is a historical drama animated by Myung Films.

In it, audiences are introduced to Chun Tae-il, a young man who has lived in a constant struggle since he was born. Denied an education and put into the workforce to survive, Tae-Il learned tailoring from his bitter, alcoholic father and attempted to make a life for himself. So when his family relocated to Seoul, they hoped their fortunes would improve.

The promise of a new future in a big city is quickly destroyed when Tae-Il takes a job in Peace Market, only to spend his days earning low wages in dangerous conditions in one of the many sweatshops. Here, he learns about the country’s labor laws that aren’t enforced. As he tries to fight for their enforcement by different officials, he’s told to be grateful to be able to work. Tae-Il takes matters into his own hands, studying labor laws and spreading the word to those around. As his movement is strangled at every turn, he’s pushed to give his own life to his cause.

Chun Tae-Il: The Flame that Lives On is a standard biographical drama; however, its animation style makes it stand out as it presents the abuse of workers’ human rights, poverty, and ultimately Tae-Il’s revolutionary act of self-immolation. The animation style is slightly jarring paired with the subject matter. One is charming and borderline adorable, and the other extremely serious. And while this tonal dissonance is hard to get over in the film’s first half, the back half brings forward an emotional message and looks at Tae-Il’s legacy and importance that works in every way.

In fact, by the film’s third act, it’s clear that the film’s approachable aesthetic will help people learn Tae-Il’s story who may not have before. As told in graphic novels, books, and a documentary before, the life and impact of this 22-year-old has already been explored. Still, this animation style makes it something easily watched and understood, never feeling like homework.

Once Chun Tae-Il: The Flame that Lives On hits its stride—the emotion in every scene is palpable, particularly when visualizing Tae-Il’s internal struggle and choices. There is a tragic beauty to the film that is honored even more so in its end with title cards that briefly explain his impact on the Labor Movement in South Korea. It’s clear that his death wasn’t in vain, but it’s also clear that the world hasn’t been entirely cured of the abuses against those in poverty and workers. This is clear by showcasing how long it took for things to “get better” after Tae-Il’s death and highlighting how those around him continued the fight.

Through strong vocal performances from the cast and a solid and emotive score, Chun Tae-Il: The Flame that Lives On is a window into South Korean history. While not without its issues, this film is a perfect entry point to a story that will leave audiences wanting to know more without feeling incomplete. An Important film, Chun Tae-Il: The Flame that Lives On is worth watching.

Chun Tae-Il: The Flame that Lives On screened as a part of the Fantasia International Film Festival 2022.