It is Soonja who brings the —a resilient, water-loving Korean herb that grows easily even in the worst conditions. She plants it near a creek, far from the family’s main fields, telling David, “It grows anywhere, like a weed. So everyone can pick it and eat it. Rich or poor, anyone can enjoy it.”
At its core, "Minari" is a film about family. The Yis' journey is a testament to the power of family bonds, and the sacrifices that parents make for their children. The film's portrayal of the relationships between parents and children, as well as between siblings, is both nuanced and authentic. Minari
The film also explores themes of identity, community, and the immigrant experience. The Yis' struggles to adapt to rural American life serve as a microcosm for the experiences of countless immigrant families who have come to the United States in search of a better life. Through the lens of the Yi family's story, Chung sheds light on the challenges faced by immigrant communities, from language barriers to cultural differences. It is Soonja who brings the —a resilient,
She pushed a gnarled finger into the mud and buried a seed. David, skeptical, buried one too, his small hand vanishing into the cold earth. Rich or poor, anyone can enjoy it