At the recent Busan International Film Festival (BIFF), the much-anticipated documentary “RM: Right People, Wrong Place” received its world premiere, though without its star, RM, who is currently fulfilling military service obligations. The documentary shines a light on the artistic journey of RM, known formally as Kim Nam-joon, particularly during the production of his second studio album. Directed by Lee Seok-jun, the film offers a candid insight into RM’s emotional landscape and his creative process, which offers an intriguing narrative that transcends the mere act of music-making.
The emotional depth of the documentary is enriched by RM’s personal philosophy, which Lee beautifully encapsulated during the film’s introduction. “Every meeting must part, and every parting leads to another meeting,” is a Korean saying RM shared with Lee, emphasizing the cyclical nature of relationships and experiences. This idea resonates throughout the film, as it explores not only RM’s music but also the collaborative spirit that characterizes his work with various artists.
The documentary does more than chronicle the making of an album; it delves into RM’s internal struggles and victories. The creative team, which included talents like San Yawn, Im Subin, and Jang Sehoon, joined Lee onstage to introduce the film, and their enthusiasm was palpable. They hinted that viewers would gain a deeper understanding of RM as an individual—a goal that was key to their production.
Lee noted that the film’s development spanned nine months, a period that allowed him to immerse himself in RM’s creative psyche. “While nine months may seem short, it unfolded as a lengthy journey that required diving deep into RM’s emotions,” Lee explained. This effort to illustrate RM’s inner world is what sets this documentary apart from more conventional music documentaries, which often gloss over the personal.
“RM: Right People, Wrong Place” was graciously invited to the “Open Cinema” section of BIFF, suggesting that its themes resonate well within the realm of global cinema. The documentary captures a universal journey of self-discovery, marking RM not just as a musical figure but as a voice for those grappling with their identities and aspirations.
As fans await the film’s global theatrical release later this year, anticipation builds. The collaboration between CJ 4DPLEX and HYBE, BTS’s management label, indicates that the film will reach a wide audience, encouraging thoughtful dialogues among viewers. Lee’s final hope is simple yet profound: “After watching the film, I hope you enjoy something interesting with your friends and engage in meaningful conversations.”
In essence, “RM: Right People, Wrong Place” is not just RM’s story; it becomes a narrative shared among all who find themselves at intersections of relationships, creativity, and self-exploration. It promises to be a transformative experience that celebrates the intricate dance of connection in life and art.