Kim Byung-woo’s latest film, “The Great Flood,” initially presents itself as a conventional apocalypse movie, depicting a catastrophic deluge that submerges Seoul. However, it quickly veers into the realm of sinister science fiction, transforming its narrative and thematic focus. The film stars Kim Da-mi as An-na, a second-ranking science officer involved in a crucial research project, whose journey through a flooded apartment block evolves into a complex exploration of human responses to disaster.
The film begins with a familiar apocalyptic scenario: An-na and her six-year-old son, Ja-in, played by Kwon Eun-seong, find their apartment inundated by floodwaters. As they attempt to escape by climbing the stairs, they encounter Hee-jo, a corporate security officer portrayed by Park Hae-soo. Hee-jo reveals that an asteroid impact in Antarctica has triggered catastrophic rains, threatening to end civilization. A helicopter is dispatched to rescue An-na and Ja-in due to An-na’s critical role in a secret UN lab that holds the key to humanity’s survival.
From Apocalypse to Sci-Fi Intrigue
As the narrative unfolds, “The Great Flood” shifts from a disaster film to a sci-fi thriller. Upon reaching the rooftop, An-na’s work is unveiled, leading the audience down a metaphorical rabbit hole. The film draws inspiration from various sources, including “Edge of Tomorrow,” Charlie Kaufman’s cerebral storytelling, and the apocalyptic tones of Christopher Nolan’s “Interstellar.”
Kim Byung-woo’s film challenges viewers to consider the future of entertainment itself. The narrative suggests that emotional responses to the unfolding drama can be calibrated, reflecting the influence of algorithmic entertainment. An-na’s interactions with other characters, such as a girl trapped in a lift and a woman in labor, reveal her evolving emotional responses, hinting at a deeper commentary on human nature and technology’s role in shaping it.
Exploring Human Fallibility and Technological Influence
Despite its futuristic themes, “The Great Flood” does not shy away from highlighting human fallibility. The film’s storytelling, marked by brittle moments and a lack of a clear antagonist, underscores the persistence of human imperfections. This reluctance to fully embrace an optimized future suggests a nuanced perspective on technological advancements and their impact on humanity.
Kim’s film raises questions about the potential complicity of creators in shaping an entertainment landscape driven by algorithms. The film’s recursive narrative and cut-and-paste disaster imagery serve as a metaphor for the evolving nature of storytelling in the digital age.
Implications for the Future of Entertainment
“The Great Flood” offers a thought-provoking exploration of the intersection between human emotion and technological influence. By intertwining apocalyptic scenarios with sci-fi elements, the film challenges audiences to reflect on the implications of an increasingly algorithm-driven world. As An-na navigates her journey, the film invites viewers to consider the ethical and emotional dimensions of a future where entertainment and reality are inextricably linked.
As the film concludes, it leaves audiences pondering the role of technology in shaping human experiences and the potential consequences of an entertainment industry driven by algorithms. “The Great Flood” serves as both a cautionary tale and a reflection on the evolving nature of storytelling, offering a glimpse into the future of cinema and its impact on society.
