Written and directed by Justin Kim WooSok, an immigrant fishing family is forced to decide whether to stay or leave Alaska after the snow crabs they depend on for their livelihood disappear. Starring: Jongman Kim, Hailey Soomin Lee, Taehee Kim, Paul Dillon and Spencer Kramber.

With Sarajin, Justin Kim WooSok asks a lot of interesting questions about pride versus practicality, loyalty versus survival. The style is quietly compelling, there’s a lot of strength at work in its atmosphere, resilience and adaptability. There’s also a superb texture to its aesthetic, taking on that feel of the cold, nature and how unforgiving they can be. As well as being topped with some excellent score work to bring out all of the film’s emotions.

That’s really the key to Sarajin, as while the story itself can be somewhat thin and doesn’t cover much ground, the emotional side is compelling. It does a wonderful job of communicating the different complexities at work, through its themes of family, work and culture. WooSok helps to develop its themes through the use of quiet, giving it something to say, even if it’s saying nothing at all.

Another big part of its emotional presence is the performance from Jongman Kim. Kim brings a brilliantly wise and gentle spirit, he’s a perfect guide for this story as he’s effortless to watch. He translates DongSu Kim’s struggle confidently, it’s touching and compassionate. There’s a strongly caring and supportive air to him, watching him try to reconcile his own wishes and loyalties with doing what is going to be best for his family as a whole.

Sarajin is led by a strong, compelling performance from Jongman Kim, rife with emotion and an excellent score. The story could have fleshed out its plot, not moving particularly far but the feelings are genuine. It’s shot well with an impressive aesthetic and an engaging atmosphere, and is overall a solid sophomore short from Justin Kim WooSok.

Verdict: ✯✯✯½ | 7/10