Mutt Boy, Dong-gae, tells the story of Chul-min, nicknamed Stray Dog, a young man who possesses little intelligence, but one hell of a temper. The son of a detective, Stray Dog's only boyhood friends is a mixed breed dog that follows him everywhere for several years. Because of his slow nature, Stray Dog is often the target of bullies. However, either because of his slow-witted nature or lack of care, he rarely becomes angry. Yet, after members of the soccer team make his dog into dinner, Stray Dog brutally beats one member of the team and pursues Jin Mook the chief bully. However, before Stray Dog is able to beat up Jin Mook, his father comes along and takes him away.
After the incident, Stray Dog drops out of high school and spends his days stealing money from his father, watching television, and preparing meals. Two key events change his humdrum life. First a couple members of a gang of dropouts challenge Stray Dog to a fight and second a young girl, Jung-ae, an orphan and thief, moves into the family home at his father's behest.
Although my review makes Mutt Boy out to be a serious drama, this film is actually quite a comedic experience. Jung Woo Sung does a wonderful job depicting the brain-dead, but big hearted Stray Dog and some scenes in the film, such as inside the massage parlor will make you guffaw. However, some aspects of the film will leave one wondering "huh?" because they have little impact film's primary story line and seem to be little more than filler. Mutt Boy is well worth the time it takes to watch it, but for repeated viewings try Gwak's film Friend instead.
After the incident, Stray Dog drops out of high school and spends his days stealing money from his father, watching television, and preparing meals. Two key events change his humdrum life. First a couple members of a gang of dropouts challenge Stray Dog to a fight and second a young girl, Jung-ae, an orphan and thief, moves into the family home at his father's behest.
Although my review makes Mutt Boy out to be a serious drama, this film is actually quite a comedic experience. Jung Woo Sung does a wonderful job depicting the brain-dead, but big hearted Stray Dog and some scenes in the film, such as inside the massage parlor will make you guffaw. However, some aspects of the film will leave one wondering "huh?" because they have little impact film's primary story line and seem to be little more than filler. Mutt Boy is well worth the time it takes to watch it, but for repeated viewings try Gwak's film Friend instead.