Kristen Yoonsoo Kim

is a film critic and culture writer from South Korea, currently based in New York. Her work has appeared in The New York TimesThe Village VoiceGQ, and elsewhere.

Celine and Julie Go Boating

The Triumph of ‘Céline and Julie Go Boating’ The Triumph of ‘Céline and Julie Go Boating’

Why Jacques Rivette’s 1974 film of female friendship and surrealism remains a masterpiece.

Apr 7, 2021 / Books & the Arts / Kristen Yoonsoo Kim

‘Minari’ Is a Landmark for Asian American Cinema

‘Minari’ Is a Landmark for Asian American Cinema ‘Minari’ Is a Landmark for Asian American Cinema

Lee Isaac Chung’s poignant immigrant drama is the kind of film that can be felt with all five senses. 

Feb 11, 2021 / Books & the Arts / Kristen Yoonsoo Kim

Éric Rohmer’s Most Underrated Masterpiece

Éric Rohmer’s Most Underrated Masterpiece Éric Rohmer’s Most Underrated Masterpiece

His 1987 film Four Adventures of Reinette and Mirabelle receives a restoration—and hopefully a newfound reputation as classic in the canon of female friendship.

Sep 14, 2020 / Kristen Yoonsoo Kim

A Queer Love Story That Does Away With the Male Gaze

A Queer Love Story That Does Away With the Male Gaze A Queer Love Story That Does Away With the Male Gaze

Set in 18th-century France, Céline Sciamma’s new film Portrait of a Lady on Fire finds a new way to chronicle a queer romance.

Dec 5, 2019 / Books & the Arts / Kristen Yoonsoo Kim

With Its Nuanced Portrayal of Asian American Life, ‘The Farewell’ Shines

With Its Nuanced Portrayal of Asian American Life, ‘The Farewell’ Shines With Its Nuanced Portrayal of Asian American Life, ‘The Farewell’ Shines

Lulu Wang and Awkwafina’s new film shows that complex and diverse Asian American films can succeed in the mainstream.

Jul 17, 2019 / Kristen Yoonsoo Kim

In the Maze of Love: Hong Sang-soo and Kim Min-hee’s Intricate Tales of Romance

In the Maze of Love: Hong Sang-soo and Kim Min-hee’s Intricate Tales of Romance In the Maze of Love: Hong Sang-soo and Kim Min-hee’s Intricate Tales of Romance

The partnership between the South Korean director and actress in recent years has led to an endlessly analyzable body of films about the darker sides of modern courtship. 

Apr 26, 2019 / Kristen Yoonsoo Kim

‘The Favourite’ Is a Delectable Tale of Aristocratic Tricksters

‘The Favourite’ Is a Delectable Tale of Aristocratic Tricksters ‘The Favourite’ Is a Delectable Tale of Aristocratic Tricksters

Yorgos Lanthimos’s latest film is his most intricate and sumptuous work to date.

Dec 5, 2018 / Kristen Yoonsoo Kim

Luca Guadagnino’s ‘Suspiria’ Is a Thrilling Mess

Luca Guadagnino’s ‘Suspiria’ Is a Thrilling Mess Luca Guadagnino’s ‘Suspiria’ Is a Thrilling Mess

His remake of the 1977 horror classic is stylish and intriguing despite its flaws.

Oct 29, 2018 / Books & the Arts / Kristen Yoonsoo Kim

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