It has been a couple of years that I heard the name Hong Sangsoo and of his reputation. I'm a fan of Eric Rohmer and to have somebody follow in his tradition with glowing reviews immediately compelled me to seek out his films. His films aren't the easiest to come by so I immediately grabbed this film when I saw it.
I was not the slightest bit disappointed.
There was certainly an ethereal quality to this film and an indefinable stamp of a director unto himself. The decors are simple and not manipulated but at the same time there is a depth and simplicity in each shot. There is such a control of what we the viewer can see and what is not shown.
The relationships are complex and real. The tension is palpable in several scenes. My heart really went out to the characters during the course of the film. I even had a change of heart. I didn't feel manipulated by the nature of the characters but I felt free to choose. A second viewing might be rewarding to see another perspective.
In contrast to others I found the soundtrack unique and appropriate. I also appreciate that, like Rohmer, there is humor throughout the film.
This film has revitalised my opinion on Korean cinema which I had a pretty dire view on before (I lived there a few years ago). I also have a new director forefront in my mind whom I must discover more of.
