Failed encounters at the Hotel by the River

This new feature film by Korean director Hong Sang-soo, which will release another in September ( The Woman Who Escaped ), is a contemplative film. In black and white. It follows the wanderings of Ko Younghwan, a relatively famous elderly poet, and a young girl mourning a sentimental story in a secluded hotel by the Han River. Apparently, the latter is not complete. The owner who sympathized with the old man offered him his stay.

Ko Younghwan awaits the visit of his two older sons, one of whom is a famous director. A theme already seen in Calm Morning in Seoul (2011), also shot in black and white. He feels his end is near and wants to say goodbye to them. They take a long time to meet in the hotel lounge (we do not understand why, by the way). General shots and wide shots follow one another in the corridors and staircase of the almost deserted establishment.

Almost in camera

Only event, it is snowing. Ko Younghwan takes the opportunity to step outside.

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