The usual thing is to go to the movies (or turn on your cell phone or computer and check the internet), to fall in love, or at least to see kisses and hope for a happy ending.
That is not exactly the theme of '.avi', since this South Korean 'LGBT+' short film portrays the deflagration of affection, distancing, disagreement, deception, betrayal...
But at what point does what was united break? When does what seemed like lifelong happiness become an unbearable burden? There are many reasons for the disagreement, and where they are missing, in this case, one of the members of the couple will be responsible for providing them.
In this little masterful gem, the first film by South Korean Lim Kyu Hyung, two young people, Min Cheol and Chan Gyu, seem the height of rapport and affection, making plans for the future once they have to join their country's army to do the military service. They will find time and ways to meet and enjoy love.
However, when a video of her boyfriend having sex with another man arrives in Chan Gyu's hands, everything irrevocably changes forever. A shared world becomes the loneliest of places.
Although the plot sounds a bit generic, watch it for the beautiful cinematography and excellent performances. South Korean aesthetics are not something you will regret investing your time in. Seo Tae Woong ('Cheer Up') is an interesting casting choice, but it's Kim Chan Kyu ('Discipline Z: Vampire', 'Summer Déjà-vu'), who catches our attention as the indignant and hurt boyfriend Min Cheol who tries to find the truth behind the images.
Both actors had already starred in the romantic drama LGBT+ 'Twins' (2024).
The profound effects of infidelity on those who have been deceived are reflected in a fascinating way. Furthermore, the intimate moments between the two characters are subtle, elegant and hot. The use of body language and silences takes the cake in the film's treatment.
Erotic and dramatic is a combination that we love. The hot chemistry between the two lead actors is VERY good to watch. The film is visually impressive, leaves us speechless from time to time and makes us want to punch Min Cheol. But to understand it... would we also be attracted to understanding his actions, with his back to his boyfriend?
'. avi' is definitely a drama about relationships worth watching, since it explores the consequences of infidelity, of the betrayal of one of the members of the couple who acts as if he were an escort, but I would have liked it to explore not only from the perspective of the deceived, but also that of the cheater.
The dialogue is wonderfully intense and the performances memorable. Honestly, if Kim Chan Kyu and Seo Tae Woong are in a movie, just watch it.
Despite their separation, the journey they take is impressive to watch. If you're looking for a happy ending or a reconciliation between these two, you're barking up the wrong tree.