Yuwol is the main character of this Korean short film. He’s adorable, precocious, and never stops dancing. And one day, he becomes the main suspect when a virus breaks out at his school. Yes, you read that right. The Boy Who Made the World Dance is all about a contagious virus that infects the world. I completely understand if that’s not exactly the story you want to watch right about now, but bear with me for a moment. I had the same thought when I first hit play, and then I couldn’t stop smiling.
That’s because the virus in question is the need to dance. When Yuwol’s fellow students suddenly have the same urge to break out the dance moves, he’s chasing out of the school by his teachers. As they run through the city, everyone they come into contact with begins to dance, and eventually, this need to bust a move spreads throughout the world. But Yuwol’s biggest challenge? Getting his strict homeroom teacher to lighten up and join in the fun.
The plot isn’t all that complicated. It’s all in the title really. But it was a wonderfully joyous way to spend 20 minutes, particularly in 2020. This year has been dominated by headlines about a virus that has brought nothing but grief and economic destruction. It’s nice to imagine an alternate reality where the only infectious thing to worry about is the joy of dancing.
One last note. The actor playing Yuwol is one of the most adorable child actors I’ve ever seen. Watching his eyes light up every time he gets to dance is easily one of the best things I’ve seen all year.
Suggestions for artists I should check out? Please contact me with your ideas. I hope you enjoyed your daily helping of art!
