Kim Dong-ho, often referred to as 'the father of filmmakers' in Korea, has made a significant impact on the national film scene for over three decades. At the age of ninety, he has embarked on a new creative journey with his debut documentary 'Mr. Kim Goes to the Movies,' which was released on September 19, 2023. During this project, he traveled across South Korea and to various countries including Japan, Malaysia, and Indonesia, engaging with filmmakers like Park Chan-wook and Bong Joon-ho to gather their insights on the role of cinemas and the future of films. His age marks a poignant twist, as he has only recently picked up the camera, starting this endeavor during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Kim's filmmaking journey is not entirely new; previously, in 2010, he directed a short film titled 'Juri' after stepping down from his long leadership role at the Busan International Film Festival. His background as a film festival judge greatly informed 'Juri,' which humorously depicted the intense and sometimes childish debates among jurors in film festivals. This transition to documentary-making was inspired by a trip to Kazakhstan, where he learned stories about the Goguryeo settlers in Saudi Arabia, yet the pandemic shifted his focus back to cinemas.

'Mr. Kim Goes to the Movies' not only reflects Kim's personal experiences but also serves as a broader commentary on the status and significance of cinemas today, especially post-pandemic. The film probes into the collective thoughts of distinguished directors about their art form’s evolution and aims to reignite the public’s connection with cinema. As Kim reaches this milestone age, his reflections and inquiries into the very nature of filmmaking promise to resonate deeply, both in Korea and the international film community.