Film Reviewer's Corner: Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter and Spring

By B G Phan
Senior Contributor
The Fairbank Report

We have long known that this is the Pacific Century when it comes to the economy and technology. We can now add with much excitement that it is also the Pacific Century when it comes to the cinematic arts. One such film is "Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter and Spring" by Korean director Kim Ki Duk.

Set in a magnificent back-drop, the story follows the life cycle of a child monk, who grows up and is then tempted by carnal passion to leave his monastic life for the "outside world." True to Buddhist philosophy, the outside world is cruel, destructive and fleeting, and the young monk/man returns to his old monastery to seek peace and permanence through meditation and hard work.

This is a simple story beautifully told through stunning cinematography. A definite hit. Moving and inspiring at the same time.