<Fatal> could be the ultra-low budget (3 million won) version of Lee Chang-dong’s magnificent Poetry, because it deals with the similar theme. Though an adult coming-of-age story, this tale of atonement, where a 28-year-old man is wracked with guilt over a sexual assault he took part in during high school, deals with heady issues like sin, conscience and responsibility. It’s clear he’s the director’s alter ego, an element that adds a level of honesty to the film that’s incredibly moving. The tragic conclusion that recalls Your Time Is Up and involves the protagonist’s extreme choices are both haunting and resonant. From an aesthetic point of view, the finest charm of the film is the unbelievable maturity shown by an emerging filmmaker in directing actors. Lee Donku comes from an acting background, which must have had some influence on the revelatory performances drawn from all the leads. The obvious dedication of the entire production crew might be what made the discoveries held within this film possible. (JEON Chanil)