Sang-hyun (Parasite's Song Kang-ho) runs a small launderette in Busan. He's proud of his work, but – saddled with debt and leaned on by local gangsters – gradually resorts to another, less publicly acceptable activity with his right-hand man. It involves "baby boxes" – safe places set up in Korean churches for new mothers to leave unwanted infants.
One night in the pouring rain, they make a decision that brings young mother So-young (Lee Ji-eun) into their orbit, as they pick up her young baby for their unofficial adoption brokerage, then set out to find him a new home.
Meanwhile, two police detectives are on their tail, as they embark on a journey that brings to the surface their own family history and sense of belonging.
From Hirokazu Kore-eda (Shoplifters, Our Little Sister, After Life), known for intimate, compassionate, beautifully composed dramas exploring unconventional family dynamics, Broker is the Japanese director's first South Korean production.
A moving, funny and heartwarming story with delicate human moments, an absolute must-see.
You have a second chance to catch the film when it returns to the screen at Film Unit in May.
- Words by
- Joe Harris
