Persona (2019)

Persona is an unconventional and utterly intriguing South Korean anthology series that premiered on Netflix in 2019. This fascinating series is unique in its peculiar storytelling and ambiance, creating a framework of sensibilities and aesthetics that are unlike many mainstream shows.

Persona seamlessly combines different genres - drama, rom-com, thriller, and even roadside procedural, among others, to weave together four standalone stories that revolve around a fictitious yet tangibly real protagonist. The title, Persona, refers to the theatrical mask that ancient actors would wear to portray a certain character, and this concept is elegantly personified throughout the series.

The entire series converges on a single protagonist, played by the South Korean singer-actress Lee Ji-eun, who is better known by her stage name IU. IU engages the audience with a captivating performance, transitioning from one diverse role to the next with remarkable skill. Each episode features the actress in a different persona; from a seemingly feeble girl to a brave woman who can walk on tightrope, to a heartbroken lover and an estranged daughter, IU illustrates her versatility as an actress by portraying each character with profound depth.

The series places IU in the heart of four nuanced and thought-provoking stories, each crafted by a different acclaimed director from the South Korean Film Industry. This collaboration of different directors brings a diversity and breadth of vision to the show, as every chapter retains a distinctive storytelling style, tone, and aesthetic while still managing to deliver a cohesive narrative. This medley of distinctive styles is part and parcel of what makes Persona so compelling to watch.

The first story titled “Love Set” is a thrilling tennis match between a young girl and her father’s girlfriend with a twist, expressionistically directed by Lee Kyoung-mi. It comes across as a layered narrative that speaks about generational clashes and the shifting dynamics of power.

“Collector,” the second story by Yim Pil-sung, takes on a lighter note as it dabbles in the rom-com genre with an added element of the surreal. It brings forth a sun-drenched romantic story with an unexpected quirk that makes you smile and chuckle.

By contrast, the third narrative "Kiss Burn" by Jeon Go-woon, engages in a darker tone, drawing the audience into a brooding atmosphere of suspense and heated adolescent emotions, as it explores the story of an adventurous young girl trying to protect her friend from a threatening bully.

Last but not least, “Walking at Night” comes from director Kim Jong-kwan, and it presents an ethereal exploration of love, loss, and the complexities of human relationships in hallucinatory imagery.

What sets Persona apart is that it doesn't demand that viewers watch its stories in a particular sequence. This deliberate choice in the series design allows the audience the freedom to navigate between the narratives, each resonating with its distinct flavor, leaving viewers with a unique experience based on the order they choose.

Characterized by powerful performances, diverse narrative techniques, and a well-executed concept, Persona promises an atmospheric viewing experience that is sure to spark conversation and thought. It is both a beautiful and complex doxology of the human experience through the lens of a single persona.

The series is as much a celebration of the dynamic and expansive realm of Korean Cinema as it is a highlight of IU’s impressive acting capabilities. Staying true to its name, Persona presents a multifaceted exploration of the different masks that a single character can wear, offering a compelling and often eerie glimpse into the nuances of human consciousness.

Overall, Persona is not your typical series. It's an eclectic collection of stories that showcase the best of modern Korean filmmaking, glued together by a central character depicted with fierce dedication. The series pushes boundaries and gallops forth into the experimental space. If you're looking for unique, thought-provoking watch, then Persona could be a great choice. It is a feast for the senses—visually, audibly, and emotionally—that is bound to leave you riveted to the screen.