1987: When the Day Comes (2017)

In the ending of "1987: When the Day Comes," the film culminates in a tense confrontation between the characters as they grapple with the consequences of their actions during a politically charged time in South Korea. The truth about the government's oppressive tactics is revealed, leading to a significant shift in public awareness and sentiment. The main characters face the repercussions of their choices, with some finding resolution while others are left to confront the harsh realities of their fight for justice.

As the film draws to a close, the narrative unfolds in a series of poignant scenes that encapsulate the emotional weight of the story.

The first scene of the ending begins in a dimly lit interrogation room, where the character of Park Jong-chul, a student activist, is being brutally tortured by the police. The camera lingers on his face, capturing the pain and fear in his eyes, as he struggles to maintain his resolve. His internal conflict is palpable; he knows that his suffering is part of a larger struggle for democracy, yet the physical pain is overwhelming. The scene is intercut with flashbacks of his life before the turmoil, showcasing his dreams and aspirations, which now seem distant and unattainable.

Next, we transition to the newsroom of a local newspaper, where journalist Kim Jae-kyung is frantically working to gather evidence of the government's abuses. The atmosphere is charged with urgency as she types furiously, her brow furrowed in concentration. She is driven by a fierce determination to expose the truth, motivated by her own experiences of loss and injustice. The camera captures her emotional turmoil as she reflects on the risks involved, knowing that her pursuit of the truth could endanger her life and the lives of those she loves.

In a pivotal scene, the public begins to rally around the cause, spurred by the revelations of the government's actions. The streets are filled with protesters, their faces a mix of anger and hope. The cinematography captures the sea of people, their voices rising in unison, demanding justice for Park Jong-chul and an end to the oppressive regime. This moment serves as a turning point, illustrating the power of collective action and the courage of individuals standing up against tyranny.

As the film progresses, we see the aftermath of the protests. Park Jong-chul's fate is revealed; despite the brutality he endured, his story becomes a symbol of resistance. His family, devastated yet proud, holds a vigil in his memory, lighting candles that flicker in the night. The camera focuses on their faces, reflecting a mix of grief and determination to continue the fight for justice in his honor.

Meanwhile, Kim Jae-kyung faces the consequences of her reporting. She is approached by government officials who threaten her safety, but she stands firm, refusing to back down. The final scene shows her walking through the streets, her expression resolute, embodying the spirit of those who have fought for freedom. The film closes with a powerful montage of real-life footage from the protests, underscoring the impact of the events depicted and the ongoing struggle for democracy in South Korea.

In summary, the ending of "1987: When the Day Comes" encapsulates the emotional and political stakes of the characters' journeys. Park Jong-chul's sacrifice becomes a rallying cry for change, while Kim Jae-kyung's unwavering commitment to truth highlights the importance of journalism in the fight against oppression. The film concludes on a note of hope, emphasizing that while the struggle for justice is fraught with danger, it is also a path toward a brighter future.

The movie "1987: When the Day Comes" does not have a post-credit scene. The film concludes its narrative without any additional scenes after the credits roll. The story wraps up with a poignant reflection on the events surrounding the Gwangju Uprising and the impact it had on South Korea's history, leaving the audience with a sense of closure regarding the characters' journeys and the historical significance of the events depicted.

Kim Jong-chul is a pivotal character in '1987: When the Day Comes.' He is a young student who becomes a victim of police brutality, which ignites public outrage and protests against the authoritarian regime. His tragic fate serves as a catalyst for the events that unfold, highlighting the struggle for democracy in South Korea.

Detective Park is initially portrayed as a loyal officer to the regime, tasked with covering up the truth behind Kim Jong-chul's death. However, as he uncovers the extent of the brutality and the government's corruption, he experiences a moral awakening. His internal conflict and eventual decision to seek justice for Kim's death play a crucial role in the narrative, showcasing the struggle between duty and conscience.

Journalist Oh Yeon-soo is instrumental in bringing the truth about Kim Jong-chul's death to light. Her relentless pursuit of the story, despite facing threats and censorship, embodies the courage of the press in the face of oppression. Her emotional journey reflects the risks taken by those who seek justice and the power of journalism to mobilize public opinion.

The Minister of Justice represents the oppressive government, initially attempting to suppress the investigation and maintain control over the narrative. His character is marked by a sense of arrogance and denial, as he underestimates the public's anger. As the protests grow, his desperation to maintain power leads to increasingly drastic measures, illustrating the lengths to which the regime will go to protect itself.

The protests serve as a backdrop for the character development of several key figures, including Detective Park and Oh Yeon-soo. As the public rallies for justice, these characters are forced to confront their beliefs and roles within the oppressive system. The protests symbolize a collective awakening, pushing characters to evolve from complacency to active resistance, ultimately shaping their destinies and the future of South Korea.

"1987: When the Day Comes" is a historical drama that deals with serious themes related to political oppression, human rights abuses, and the struggle for democracy in South Korea during the late 1980s. While the film is significant in its portrayal of these events, it contains several elements that may be objectionable or upsetting for children or sensitive viewers.

1. Violence and Torture: The film depicts scenes of police brutality and torture, showcasing the harsh realities faced by political activists. These moments are intense and can be distressing.

2. Death and Grief: The narrative involves the death of a key character, which leads to emotional turmoil and grief among the characters. The portrayal of loss is poignant and may evoke strong feelings.

3. Political Oppression: The film addresses themes of censorship, government corruption, and the suppression of free speech, which may be difficult for younger audiences to fully comprehend.

4. Emotional Distress: Characters experience significant emotional pain and moral dilemmas, which can be heavy and may resonate deeply with sensitive viewers.

5. Realistic Depictions of Fear: The atmosphere of fear and uncertainty during a politically charged time is palpable, which may be unsettling for some viewers.

Overall, while the film is a powerful commentary on a crucial historical moment, its content may not be suitable for younger audiences or those who are sensitive to themes of violence and oppression.