'SA KWA' So Ri Moon is a look alike of Toni Gonzaga with Seon Geon Lee who has the same features of the late Rico Yan.

Due to the positive response of audiences to the Korean film fest, Shangri-La Plaza has decided to extend it to Oct. 6. Apart from having free admission, Filipinos have developed a taste for Korean telenovelas that seems to have been translated to their enthusiasm for films as well. The lineup ranges from action, romance and period pieces.

Kiejoo Kim a counselor from the Korean embassy said, “The film fest is only a part of the bigger celebration of the 60th Anniversary of the diplomatic relations between the Philippines and Korea. We will be having cultural shows slated for November at the Cultural Center of the Philippines. There will also be food festivals and the like in other venues.”

Marline Concio-Dualan Marketing Manager for Shangri-La said, “It has been a conscious effort for our mall to offer unique cinematic experiences. Just a month ago we also had the 3rd Silent film fest which showed rare silent films from Italy, France and other countries. The Cine Europa film fest which just finished is already on its 12th year here at Shang Cineplex. Now our latest upcoming venture after this is the Italian film fest which will start on Oct. 13.” According to her, the interest in Korean film fest was “really impressive since it’s only the first time we’ve hosted it here. That’s why we decided to extend the festival period up to Oct. 6.”

‘Forbidden Quest’

This is not just the typical period piece from ancient times that a lot of local TV viewers are used to. There’s a lot more sophistication, not just in the production design and costumes but especially in the story. Inspector Kim (Han Suk kyu) is considered to be the greatest writer in the kingdom. But due to a small accident as a member of the royal court he is able to save the queen (Min Jung Kim) from robbers. After the chance meeting he falls for her and cannot distinguish between his thoughts of love and lust. He pours out his emotions on his next novel, which instantly becomes a hit.

Because of his passionate and detailed description of sex, Kim may be one of he earliest writers of erotica. Later on he recruits Gwang Heon (Beom Su Lee), the greatest illustrator in the kingdom to help readers visualize the complex sexual positions in his novel. All this is within the context of a romance brewing between Kim and the queen. This is definitely a must-see whether you’re a fan of romance or interested in early erotica.

‘Sa Kwa’

This is another title a lot of TV viewers have already flocked to. This is a modern-day romance where Hyun Jung (So Ri Moon) was dumped by her boyfriend of seven years. She then meets Sanghoon (Tae Woo Kim) in her office building. After a series of persistent introductions she gives in and eventually falls for Sanghoon. Her quirky family also falls for her new humble and clumsy boyfriend. Soon they’re engaged.

“Sa Kwa” can be categorized in the rom-com (romance-comedy) genre Filipinos appreciate. It doesn’t hurt that the main actors have a striking resemblance to local stars.

So Ri Moon is a look alike of Toni Gonzaga, Tae Woo Kim has the boyish charms of basketball player and “Pinoy Records” host Chris Tiu. Seon Geon Lee who plays the old boyfriend has the same features of the late Rico Yan. “Forbidden Quest” and “Sa Kwa” would make great date movies without having to shell out the money for tickets.

There are many more titles to choose from such as Cannes Grand Prix winner “Old Boy” which is an action/vengeance film, “Barking Dogs Never Bite” is an interesting comedy, “The Show Must Go On,” “Beyond The Years,” “Driving With My Wife’s Lover.”