Poetry had us asking ourselves, how much does one grandma have to endure? Korean filmmaker Lee Chang-dong, known for Oasis and Secret Sunshine, introduces us to the world of Mija (Yun Jung-hee), a sixty-something woman who takes care of her delinquent grandson, works as a part-time maid, and finds that her memory is starting to go. A source of joy and also great frustration, Mija enrolls in a poetry-writing class. As her life goes into free fall, she hangs on by searching for poetic inspiration. Subtle yet powerful, you’ll find Poetry loitering in your conscious well after you’ve left the theater.

Poetry is a Kino Lorber release.

(Originally appeared on Flavorpill.com in February 2011.)