Minari: A Heartfelt Journey of Family and Pursuit of the American Dream

“Minari,” directed by Lee Isaac Chung, is a cinematic masterpiece that beautifully captures the immigrant experience and the complexities of family dynamics. Set against the backdrop of rural Arkansas in the 1980s, this film offers a profound exploration of identity, cultural adaptation, and the pursuit of the American Dream. Beyond its seemingly simple narrative lies a deeper and more poignant message about the human spirit and the universal desire for a better life.

The Seeds of Hope

At the core of “Minari” is the idea of hope and resilience. The film takes its name from the Korean herb minari, which the Korean immigrant family in the story plants near their new home. This act of planting minari serves as a metaphor for the family’s pursuit of a better life in America, just as the herb requires time, care, and patience to grow and thrive.

The struggles faced by the Yi family, especially Jacob (played by Steven Yeun), as they strive to establish a farm are emblematic of the challenges many immigrants face when starting anew. The film highlights the determination to plant roots, both literal and metaphorical, and the enduring hope that these roots will flourish, much like the minari herb itself.