Here are my thoughts on “Magma” by Felt Kim, screened during the Bucheon International Fantastic Film Festival (BIFAN), which took place from July 2 – 12, 2026, in Bucheon, South Korea.

Magma by Felt Kim – Korea | 2026 – 21 minutes | World Premiere
Section: Fantastic Shorts 11

After setting fire to his own house, Ju-young’s father disappears without a trace. Shortly afterward, she receives the news that fragments of his bones have been found. Determined to uncover what really happened to her father, Ju-young returns to her hometown. There, she reunites with her deaf brother, Se-hyung, who now lives in the mountains. Everything around them seems still and silent. But as the story unfolds, that silence becomes increasingly deafening. What really happened to Ju-young’s father? And why is the entire village silent?

Magma is a suspense short film whose story gradually reveals itself. As its title suggests, something is building beneath the surface, pressing to erupt in a violent and explosive way, yet for everyone’s sake it must remain hidden, buried. Featuring beautiful cinematography and outstanding performances, the short creates an atmosphere where the tension is palpable from the very beginning. This is further reinforced by a style of photography reminiscent of Shōgun, the 2024 FX series, with the camera keeping its focus on the characters while leaving the background slightly blurred.

Trailer: