If You Were Me is a 2003 South Korean omnibus film, comprising six short films directed by six prominent Korean directors, including Park Chan-wook. Commissioned by the National Human Rights Commission of Korea for ₩50 million (US$39,000) each, the shorts deal with discrimination in Korea and the directors were given free rein with regard to subject and style. The film has spawned three live-action sequels, as well as two animated films, which deal with similar themes.
Contents
Plot
"Crossing" - A disabled man on crutches hobbling along the streets of Sejongno, downtown Seoul. On paralytic actor Kim Moon-joo and disabled theatre group Hwol. Directed by Yeo Kyun-dong.
"The Man with an Affair" - A former sex criminal has been cut off by his neighbors. Raises questions about the human rights of sex offenders. Directed by Jeong Jae-eun.
"The Weight of Her" - A high school student must struggle to secure a job because of her undesirable appearance. Discusses discrimination against women. Directed by Yim Soon-rye.
"Face Value" - Depicts work settings where job applicants are evaluated by their physical appearance in looks-obsessed Korean society. Directed by Park Kwang-su.
"Tongue Tied" - Korean parents' extreme fervor for education is exposed as a child undergoes a tongue operation to enhance his ability in spoken English. Directed by Park Jin-pyo.
"N.E.P.A.L.: Never Ending Peace and Love" - A Nepalese woman named Chandra spends six years in a mental hospital after she was mistaken for a Korean who had lost her mind. Based on the true story of Chandra Kumari Gurung. Addresses the human rights of foreign laborers in Korea. Directed by Park Chan-wook.
Cast
Jeong Jae-eun
Yim Soon-rye
Yeo Kyun-dong
Park Chan-wook
Park Jin-pyo
Park Kwang-su
Lee Ji-hyun as Nurse
Kim Dae-gon as Physical education teacher
Film series
There were five subsequent films in the series:
If You Were Me 2 (2006)
If You Were Me 3 (2006)
If You Were Me 4 (2009)
If You Were Me 5 (2011)
If You Were Me 6 (2013)