Background Information
The Mole Undercover in North Korea is a 2017 documentary, directed by Texan journalist and filmmaker Rob Reiner. The documentary was filmed throughout Reiner’s three trips to North Korea between 2013 and 2017. It paints a vivid picture of North Korea, an isolated, hermetically-sealed society which hides its secrets from the outside world. In the documentary, Reiner goes undercover, introducing himself as a tourist, to explore the country many consider to be the last great unknown on the planet.
Throughout the documentary, Reiner meets with North Korean citizens and leadership alike. He interviews them, and discovers the reality of North Korea is far more complex than it is often portrayed in the media. He also dives into the culture and history of North Korea, offering viewers a comprehensive look at the nation.
Where to Watch the Documentary
The Mole Undercover in North Korea is available to watch for free on YouTube, Amazon Prime Video, and Vimeo. It is also available for purchase on various platforms, including iTunes, Google Play, and Amazon. The documentary has also been released on DVD and Blu-Ray.
In addition, Reiner has organized various screenings of the documentary in various cities around the world. He has spoken about his experiences in North Korea and shown clips from the documentary in various venues, including Harvard, Stanford, and Iowa State University.
Reception of the Documentary
The Mole Undercover in North Korea has garnered critical acclaim, with critics praising it as a rare and honest look at the isolated country. It has been nominated for numerous awards, including the BAFTA Award for Best Documentary, the Emmy Award for Outstanding Documentary or Nonfiction Special, and the César Award for Best Documentary.
The documentary has also been widely praised by academics and journalists, who have commended Reiner for his unique insights into the country and its people. They have commented on its gripping narrative, its attention to detail, and its revealing look at North Korea.
Analysis and Insights
The Mole Undercover in North Korea offers viewers an intimate look at the inner workings of a secretive and isolated country. Through interviews, Reiner paints a nuanced picture of the North Korean people, challenging the dominant narrative of North Koreans as uniformly obedient and inward-facing. He also sheds light on the complexities of the North Korean regime, revealing the personal connections between its citizens and leadership.
Furthermore, the documentary offers an accurate portrayal of the country, avoiding stereotypes and commonplace misconceptions. It offers a balanced, eye-opening look at a country that few outside of North Korea have ever experienced.
Conclusion
The Mole Undercover in North Korea offers viewers an insightful look into the inner workings of North Korea. Reiner’s interviews with North Korean citizens and his exploration of the culture and history of the country provide a comprehensive account of a nation that has long been a mystery to the outside world. It offers a different perspective on North Korea and provides viewers with a unique window into a nation few can ever experience.
