On the Art of the Cinema

On the Art of the Cinema is a 1973 treatise on filmmaking written by North Korean leader Kim Jong Il. The text serves as the definitive guide for North Korean cinema and outlines the official state philosophy on film production. The book presents Kim's theories on filmmaking, including the concepts of "humanics" and "seed theory" which form the foundation of North Korean artistic doctrine. The work spans over 300 pages and contains detailed instructions for directors, actors, and other film personnel. The text focuses on practical filmmaking methods while emphasizing how cinema should represent revolutionary ideals and Korean cultural values. It established guidelines that North Korean filmmakers were required to follow for decades after its publication. This treatise offers insight into how authoritarian states can use cinema as a tool for ideological messaging, while exploring fundamental questions about the purpose of art in society. The theories presented continue to influence North Korean media production today.

Readers note the book reflects Kim Jong Il's deep interest in cinema and provides insight into North Korea's film industry and propaganda methods. Many reviewers approach it as a historical document rather than a practical filmmaking guide. Readers appreciate: - Clear explanations of North Korean film theory - Details about the DPRK's movie production system - Historical value as a primary source - Unexpected moments of solid filmmaking advice Common criticisms: - Repetitive political messaging - Basic/obvious filmmaking concepts - Dense, academic writing style - Limited practical application Ratings: Goodreads: 3.5/5 (87 ratings) Amazon: 3.2/5 (13 ratings) Sample review quotes: "Fascinating look into how cinema was viewed as a propaganda tool" - Goodreads reviewer "More interesting as a historical artifact than an actual guide" - Amazon reviewer "Contains some legitimate insights about film buried under layers of ideology" - LibraryThing user

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🎬 Kim Jong Il personally maintained a collection of over 20,000 films and was known to be particularly fond of Hollywood productions, despite their ban in North Korea. 🎥 Before writing "On the Art of Cinema," Kim Jong Il served as the head of the Propaganda and Agitation Department, directly overseeing North Korea's film industry from 1967. 📽️ The book led to the infamous 1978 kidnapping of South Korean filmmaker Shin Sang-ok and actress Choi Eun-hee, who were forced to make seven films in North Korea. 🎞️ During Kim Jong Il's era, North Korean films were required to follow the "Three Great Subjects" principle outlined in the book: loyalty to the party, working-class consciousness, and socialist values. 🌟 The text became mandatory reading for all North Korean filmmakers and remains part of the curriculum at Pyongyang University of Dramatic and Cinematic Arts to this day.