Crush and Blush (2008 Film)

Crush and Blush (Korean: 미쓰 홍당무; RR: Misseu Hongdangmoo) is a 2008 South Korean black comedy film directed by Lee Kyoung-mi. The film, produced by Moho Films, marks the directorial debut of Lee Kyoung-mi and features a screenplay co-written by Lee, Park Chan-wook, and Park Eun-kyo.

Crush and Blush promotional poster — Promotional poster for the film Crush and Blush.

Plot

The story follows Yang Me-sook, a 29-year-old teacher struggling with chronic blushing and social isolation. Formerly a Russian language teacher at a high school, she is transferred to a middle school to teach English, a subject she is not proficient in. Me-sook develops an obsessive, unrequited infatuation with a married colleague, Mr. Seo, mistakenly believing he reciprocates her feelings. Upon discovering that Mr. Seo is involved with an attractive Russian teacher, Me-sook forms an unlikely alliance with his daughter, Seo Jong-hee, to sabotage the relationship.

Cast

The film features an ensemble cast including:

Kong Hyo-jin as Yang Me-sook
Lee Jong-hyuk as Mr. Seo
Hwang Woo-seul-hye as Lee Yu-ri
Seo Woo as Seo Jong-hee
Pang Eun-jin as Seong Eun-kyo

Production and Release

Crush and Blush premiered at the 13th Pusan International Film Festival in October 2008. It was released theatrically in South Korea on October 16, 2008. The film was distributed by Vantage Holdings.

Scene from the film — A scene from the film featuring the main characters.

Reception and Awards

The film received critical recognition for its screenplay and direction. At the 29th Blue Dragon Film Awards in 2008, Lee Kyoung-mi won Best New Director and Best Original Screenplay. Seo Woo received the Best New Actress award at the 28th Critics Choice Awards. Additionally, the film was honored with a Special Award for Audacity at the 2009 New York Asian Film Festival.