Artist Kim Gyu-na (left) and Artist Jeong Kwang-je held a talk show titled "Film Asks, Books Answer" on the second day of the Lacksper International Film Festival on the 19th at the Seoul Film Center in Chungmuro, Seoul, after the screening of the film 'Agenda.' [Photo by Artist Yoon Sang-gu]"Antonio Gramsci was a left-wing revolutionary, but he was the figure who most sharply analyzed the essence of modern cultural power. He believed that power in modern society did not solely stem from laws and armies. He argued that cultural spheres such as schools, media, art, public spaces, and commemorative sites shape people's emotions and common sense, ultimately determining political direction. He called this hegemony." - From Jeong Kwang-je's "A Liberal Reads Gramsci"

On the 19th, the second day of the Lacksper International Film Festival, a talk show titled "Film Asks, Books Answer" featuring artist Jeong Kwang-je and artist Kim Gyu-na was held at the Seoul Film Center in Chungmuro, Seoul, following the screening of the film 'Agenda.'

Jeong Kwang-je stated that day, "The documentary 'Agenda: Grinding America Down,' released in 2010, was a work that made many people consciously aware of the power of culture operating behind the scenes, rather than just the politics in front of them." He introduced it as a film that offers clues as to why American society continues to become more left-leaning despite the end of the Cold War.

Kim Gyu-na explained, "Director Curtis Bower attributes the cause not to politics, but to culture." She added, "The communist revolution, which failed with guns and tanks, has expanded its long-term influence through education, media, art, popular culture, and civic organizations."

Indeed, looking back at modern society, elections are held every few years, while education takes place daily. Laws are made by the National Assembly, but values are formed through schools and the media. Even when the government changes, textbooks, broadcasts, and universities continue to influence people for a much longer time.

While people consider politics to be the concern of the National Assembly and the president, the film 'Agenda' argues that culture precedes politics, common sense precedes culture, and the side that occupies common sense ultimately drives society.

Meanwhile, at 7 p.m. on Saturday, the classic human rights film 'The Killing Fields' will be screened. Tomorrow, the 21st, screenings will be held for acclaimed films such as 'The First Emperor of China' and 'Why the Cartel.' The Lacksper International Film Festival will continue until Tuesday, the 23rd. Monday is a holiday.

Reporter Lim Yo-hee