Burning (2018) Review: A Korean Classic
★★★★½ 4.5/5
Essential viewing — a certified classic.
Is Burning worth watching?
Yes — Burning remains one of the most celebrated films from South Korea, with a 95% Critic Score and enduring audience appeal. On Celluloid it holds a 95% Critic Score, 67% Audience Score, 90 Metascore, 4 on Letterboxd, and 7.5 on IMDb — numbers that explain why it still surfaces on every “best of South Korea” list.
What is Burning about?
A deliveryman reconnects with a childhood friend who introduces him to a mysterious wealthy man, sparking jealousy and existential dread. Directed by Lee Chang-dong, the film stars Yoo Ah-in, Steven Yeun, Jeon Jong-seo, and remains a reference point for Drama and Mystery filmmaking from South Korea.
Should you watch Burning?
Yes, without hesitation — Burning rewards viewers who want more than algorithm-friendly new releases. At 148 minutes, it more than earns its running time — and the critics’ consensus still resonates today: Lee Chang-dong’s slow-burn Haruki Murakami adaptation simmers with class tension and unanswered violence.
Where can I watch Burning?
Streaming availability varies by region — check major platforms in your country or local cinemas for revival screenings. Burning (2018) is widely indexed on IMDb (tt7282468) and remains one of the most searched classic titles from South Korea on NewMoviesReviews.com.