Despite her kindness, he rejects her love. At first he simply ignores her and plays his video games, but once his batteries die, he takes it out on her by calling her names, writing taunts on the wall, or hiding her few possessions. Yet as time passes, the boy not only learns to understand his grandmother, but also to appreciate and love her.

The Way Home is a simple film told through small vignettes and emotion instead of a strong storyline and too much dialog. And this silent film approach works here. Dialog isn't necessary when the two learn to communicate in other ways, such a kindness and mutual respect. Before sitting down to watch this film, viewers are going to know how it ends, so the story doesn't waste time with meaningless exposition, throw-away characters, or unnecessary plot points.

The performances are splendid. The woman's unspoken gentleness radiates from the screen, and at first, the boy's insensitivity is startling. But his transformation is both well paced and believable. Despite knowing where the story is headed, it's hard not to care for this most unlikely of duos.

One character you'll never see on screen is the music of Dae-Hong Kim and Yang-Hee Kim. Much of the film's emotion comes across in the music, whether it be lighthearted or somber. Yet this emotion isn't thrust upon viewers in order to enhance their feelings. Instead, it's a very subtle language that flows with the story like an invisible friend.

There's not much to The Way Home. It's a very simple movie about a boy's growing relationship with his grandmother. There are no frills here. And that's a good thing, because anything other than what's already presented would just get in the way.

THE VIDEO
Paramount Classics presents The Way Home in 1.85:1 anamporhic widescreen. The transfer is very clean and sharp, but edge enhancement is its greatest weakness, with several of the high-contrast scenes sporting slight halo effects. Despite this, the transfer offers solid detail and great color, with skin, foliage, and sky color appearing very lifelike.

THE AUDIO
Presented in 5.1 digital sound, The Way Home keeps it's original Korean track in tact. Thankfully, it is the only track offered (English and Spanish subtitles are available). Even though it is a quiet film with little dialog, the entire sound field is used remarkably well. The surrounds come into play for ambiance, particularly for the buzzing of insects and the rustling of leaves. The rare effects are clearly presented in the front channels, to the left and right when appropriate, and the music of sounds great on this DVD. Occasionally, the voices are soft, but they come across clearly throughout the film.

THE BONUS FEATURES
None.

FINAL THOUGHTS
The Way Home is a simple yet remarkable film. You won't find any action or drama here. You won't even find much dialog or many plot points. But you will find a movie with heart. Although this film may not inspire multiple viewings, it would be best shared with family, particularly mothers and grandmothers, or passed around to the ones you love. And that's enough for a solid recommendation.