Edhi Alice: Take

Directed by Kim Il-rhan (김일란)

127min | Release date in South Korea: 2026/10/28

Synopsis
Kim Il-rhan's documentary takes an unconventional form, as befits a work about two brave souls defying convention. The first section focuses on Alice, a trans woman who works as a lighting director on films (including, in a self-reflexive twist, this one). Alice is a dedicated craftswoman, and she pushes her tenacity further in pursuit of her real dream: to become a dancer. Eventually, the focus switches to Edhi, a counselor who is preparing for gender-affirming surgery. Facing down skepticism from others as well as internal trepidation, Edhi undergoes the procedure, and Kim documents her post-operation life in which she feels, as she puts it, "lighter".

Besides its gentleness and obvious affection for its two subjects, what gives Edhi Alice: Take its distinction is Kim's attention to detail, both physical and psychological. From the specifics of post-op dilation to the pain of repression, she explores trans identity with curiosity and deep respect. Her subjects repay that respect, disclosing their thoughts and feelings with commendable honesty.