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1987: When the Day Comes

Name: 1987: When the Day Comes
Director: Jang Joon-hwan
Released: 2017
Duration: 129 min

Representation Score

6.9/10

Good

2017

Not Rated

Director

Jang Joon-hwan

Runtime

129 minutes

Average Rating

No ratings yet

New Showbiz Analysis

1987: When the Day Comes is a historical political thriller that prioritizes systemic critique over individual identity exploration. Its strength lies in its subversion of state authority and its portrayal of women as key players in the resistance movement. However, the historical setting leads to a lack of LGBTQ+ representation and a culturally homogeneous cast. While it addresses physical trauma, it does so through the lens of political violence rather than disability experiences. Ultimately, the film excels as a study of power dynamics and the fight for sovereignty, despite its limited demographic diversity.

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Category Breakdown

Does 1987: When the Day Comes have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film does not include any LGBTQ+ characters or explore non-cisgender identities. It focuses solely on the socio-political context of the June Democratic Struggle.

How does 1987: When the Day Comes portray gender?

Fair

Women are shown as active participants in the democratic movement rather than being confined to traditional domestic roles. They play significant roles in the investigative and activist aspects of the story.

How racially and ethnically diverse is 1987: When the Day Comes?

Fair

Set in South Korea, the film portrays a culturally uniform society. Diversity is highlighted through the struggles of underrepresented citizens against an authoritarian state.

How does 1987: When the Day Comes represent religion and culture?

Excellent

The narrative critiques corrupt institutions and Western-aligned authoritarianism. It emphasizes the pursuit of democratic truth over state-enforced stability.

Does 1987: When the Day Comes include disability representation?

Fair

Physical injuries and the effects of interrogation are used to highlight state brutality. These depictions focus on political implications rather than the experiences of those with disabilities.

Present on Screen

Women are depicted with significant roles in the democratic movement.
The film provides a strong critique of institutional corruption and oppressive state structures.
It effectively explores the struggles of underrepresented citizens against an authoritarian regime.

Limited or Absent

There is a complete absence of LGBTQ+ characters or queer-coded themes.
Depictions of physical trauma serve political purposes rather than exploring disability experiences.
The setting results in a lack of multi-ethnic or racial diversity.

Official Synopsis

In 1987 Korea under an oppressive military regime, the unlawful interrogation and death of a college student ignite ordinary citizens to fight for the truth and bring about justice.

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