In a perfect capitalist future—maintained by the jovial middle class, with the lower class kept under wraps—Alexander decides to rebel. His defiant remarks soon make him a target for “Life Guidance” agents, and he finds himself subjected to the true horrors of the perfect world. This special organization watches the people’s every move and dispenses so-called advice to them. The agents advise members of this future society to strive to reach the utmost level of life, carrying out the ultimate capitalist brainwashing of people from an early age. The director makes the viewer feel this inhumane and harsh future, where everything is measured and controlled by achievement. The actors’ stiff looks, minimized gestures, and the coldly shaded mise-en-scène delivered in a stark and orderly manner contrast dramatically with the splendid nature. The scene of a family picnic suggests that true human qualities and true values exist in the natural. Life Guidance is the second long feature from Austrian prodigy Ruth Mader, and takes a brilliant pop at achievement-oriented societies. (RHEE Souewon)