Gook is a simple story about two young Korean men who run a women's shoe store during the L.A. riots in 1992. A young 11 year old black gir ,Kamilla, (played wonderfully by Simone Baker) comes along and steals their hearts. As the title implies racism is the core.
I love the throwback to independent 90's cinema. The low budget black and white production,unknown cast of actors and urban angst. It captures the essence of Jim Jarmusch,Spike Lee and Kevin Smith while not quite ascribing to the level of these revolutionary film makers.
Perhaps one of the flaws of this film is that it tries too hard. Chon should have been more relaxed and just let things play out like the films of the 90's that inspired him.
The film is predictable. The ending could have went one of two ways and it didn't disappoint by doing just that.
By all means this film is worth watching. I hope this leads to bigger and better things for all those involved but most importantly writer,director,actor Justin Chon.
