‘Columbus’ Is Everything An Indie Movie Should Be

If you missed one of 2017’s true cinematic delights, Columbus, you can now watch it in 2018 — and! — be just as delighted. In Kogonada’s directorial debut, the Seoul-born and Midwest-raised talent captures Columbus, Indiana in a way that will have you looking up flights to the town before the film is finished. Between the gorgeous cinematography and the effective performances, Columbus is stylish and sweet and quite frankly, exactly what an indie movie should be.

John Cho stars as Jin, a man who travels to Columbus after his famous architect father collapses while in town, and befriends Casey, played by the undoubtedly future Oscar winner Haley Lu Richardson. As a library worker and architecture enthusiast, Richardson gives it her damn best to be a Plain Jane but her exuberance shines through in every scene. And Cho, oohwee, if there were ever any doubters when it comes to his potential as a leading man, it won’t take long into this movie for those hesitations to disappear. Together, Cho and Richardson develop on on-screen connection that is simply the kind of friendship we all crave to see and to have in our own lives.

While the film takes a little bit to warm up, stick with it as it pays off in the form of an enjoyable and worthwhile experience by the end. Columbus explores themes of family dynamics and the scariness of growing up and making decisions, and the moments in our past that have defined who we are today, intentionally and otherwise. Amid shots of the town’s modernist buildings, the emotions are captured in few moments and fewer words. And just wait until you see the entire scene that was shot in the reflection of a mirror. It’s these distinct style choices that make Columbus so unique, especially visually, and matched with such lovely and poignant storytelling, it’s a real treat for the eyes and the heart.

In fact, Columbus is the kind of movie you feel on the inside, and for some time after the viewing experience is complete. Play this one on the biggest screen you’ve got because between the lovely story brought to life through excellent performances, and visuals that look so, so beautiful on top of it all, add up to provide simple moments with big feelings.

Where to watch Columbus