All language subtitles for The.Novelists.Film.2022.KOREAN.1080p.WEBRip.x264-VXT.eng

Jeonwonsa Film Co.

THE NOVELIST'S FILM

Lee Hyeyoung Kim Minhee Seo Younghwa
Park Miso Kwon Haehyor Cho Yunhee
Ki Joobong Ha Seongguk Lee Eunmi

written and directed by
Hong Sangsoo

You won't speak now?
You won't answer me?

You refuse to answer?

No, it's not that.

When did you get so cheeky?
What's gotten into you?

I didn't want to burden you.

My mind just went blank
for a second.

Seriously?
That excuse again?

I'm so sick of you saying that!

Okay.

- Can I help you with something?
- I'll just smoke before going in.

As you wish.

- Shall I remove that signboard?
- No, I'm reading it.

Okay.

Junhee!

What are you doing here?

Sit. Let me finish smoking.

That girl said it was you,
but I didn't believe her.

How did you come?

Did you know I was here?

I came because you're here.

Really? Who told you?

Some people I know.

I see.

I didn't tell anyone
that I'm living here.

But I guess someone knew.

I guess so.
That's how I came.

Right.

Would you like
something to drink?

Coffee or tea?
Whatever you like.

Hello. Thank you.

Yes, hello.

I didn't greet you
properly before, sorry.

It's fine.
Nice to meet you.

Nice to meet you.

What will you have?
Coffee?

Sure, if you have it.

Then I'll make you coffee.

She resembles someone we know.
Right?

- Really?
- Yeah.

She looks similar.

Or not?

But who is she?

Just someone I know.
She lives nearby.

She helps me at the shop.

- How are you doing?
- Me?

I'm okay.

- You stopped writing?
- Yes.

I don't write anymore.
I doubt I will again.

You've gained weight.
Quite a bit.

I really have.
10kg, I think.

You look good.

You look carefree.
More natural, it's nice.

Thank you.

None of my clothes
fit anymore.

I've lost all discipline.

Recently I read
your latest book.

Sorry for not
calling you afterwards.

So you read it.

I haven't published
much recently, right?

Yes, it's been a while.

Tell me,

why didn't you contact me?

Was it hard to call me?

No, why would it be hard?

After leaving Seoul,
I just felt sick of it all.

I don't mean you.
People in general.

Everyone I know.

But you seem to get along
with people here?

Well...

I see you have
get-togethers here?

It just happened.

People from nearby came,
older women especially.

They like it here.

You seem fine, anyway.

People come here to kill time.

This area has
no other bookstores.

And I do contact a few
people for lectures.

I guess that's how
the word got out.

- I doubt it.
- It's possible.

I told them not to
tell anyone.

But how did you come here?
It's so far.

I came to see you.

To see how you're doing.

You treated me well back then.
You really did.

It was nothing.

You want coffee?
It must be ready.

Okay, sure.

- But did you quit smoking?
- No.

I don't smoke here.

I'll take that.

People here don't like it.

- I guess so.
- I smoke e-cigarettes inside!

It's an interesting
selection of books.

I try to choose books
that people will like.

And I read differently now.

I only read
what I really like.

I don't care what
others think.

Did you care before?

Yes.

There were always books.
I felt I should read.

But now I choose
what attracts me.

I just...

You've discovered
a joy for reading.

Yes.

I read things I never
dream of reading before.

Really?

You studied theatre?
Did you act?

Yes.

Not anymore?

No, I acted a bit
and then stopped.

How old are you?
What do you do?

I'm 33.

And I study sign language.

You look much younger
than your age.

And you study sign language?
Wow.

Yes, I do.

That must be fun.
Teach me sometime.

I'm still learning.

Can you say this
in sign language?

The day is still bright,
but soon it grows dark.

While the day lingers,
let's enjoy a nice walk.

Okay.

Like that.

So impressive.

So, what is "day"?

"The day is still bright."

"The day is still bright"...

is like this.

- Just, "The day is still bright"?
- Yes.

"The day is still bright."

- "But soon it grows dark."
- "But soon it grows dark."

Like this.

What's this?

It means it's coming soon.

"The day is still bright,"

"but soon it grows dark."

Yes.

- "While the day lingers"...
- "lingers"...

"While the day lingers,"

- "Let's enjoy a nice walk."
- "Let's enjoy a nice walk."

"Let's enjoy a nice walk."

- Right.
- You're good at this.

Show me this once more.
Like this?

Like this.

Like this.

"But soon it grows dark."

Wait, once more.
"The day is still bright."

"But soon it grows dark."

"While the day lingers"...

"Let's enjoy a nice walk."

From now on,

none of us can hear.

You do it so well!

It's so big.

Sorry, we should go with you.

But we can't leave
the shop.

No, it's fine.

Thanks to you I'm visiting here.
You say it's famous?

Yes, the inside
is worth seeing.

Really?

Maybe it will appear
in one of your works.

But it looks like that
comic book robot.

Right.

Take care.
Thanks for the sign language.

- Yes, thank you.
- Bye.

Thanks for today.
You came so far.

Let's meet again soon.

Let's do that.

Bye.

Will you go home by taxi?

I don't take taxis.
I came on the subway.

- Really?
- Yeah.

I never knew the subway
came out here. It's great.

- It opened recently.
- Okay, bye!

- I'll in touch!
- Wait...

I meant to say
this earlier,

but I've always
respected your work.

It's a great honor
to meet you.

Thank you.

- No, thank you.
- Sure. I'll see you.

- Okay.
- Bye, then.

What are you looking at
so intently?

- Hello.
- Hi.

It's been so long.

It's been ages.
How have you been?

- Imagine meeting you here.
- Yes, it's been so long.

Where did we meet before?

You don't recognize me?

I'm Yangjoo,
who lives with Director Park.

Director Park...

Director Park's wife!
That's right.

Director Park's
hiding over there.

I'll bring him over, okay?

- Where is he?
- Hiding in that corner.

I guess he's hesitant
to meet you.

Still, wouldn't you like
to see him?

It seems like fate
meeting you here.

Yes.

I'll bring him over.

For a film director,
he's so shy.

He's just innocent,
that's all.

What brings you here?

Here on some business?

- It's been a long time.
- It really has.

I was visiting a friend,
so I stopped by.

- Oh really?
- They say it's famous.

It's my first time here, too.

We stopped on the way back
from Paldang.

- Out for a drive?
- Yes.

I thought maybe I could
use it in a film someday.

I see.

You're exactly the same.
You look good.

- Not at all.
- No, it's true!

You still have that charisma.

What charisma?

People really like that word.

It's an impressive word,
charisma.

You really do have charisma.
Truly.

- I have charisma?
- Ask around, everyone thinks so.

- You're the one with charisma.
- Me? Not at all!

I don't have charisma,
and you do.

All right, thank you.

I shouldn't have said it.

So you came to
meet your friend?

Yes, but...

Why did you hide?

You hid from me?

- No, I want to the restroom.
- I see.

Yes, it was urgent.

Oh, my.

- What are you writing these days?
- This and that.

I read your latest book.

- I loved it.
- So you read it.

We both read it.

- Thank you.
- It was great, really.

Shall we drink something?
Is there a coffee machine?

- 3rd floor, by the restroom.
- Oh, perfect!

Then should we
go have coffee?

- I'm a bit thirsty.
- Shall we?

- Will you drink something?
- Shall we?

- Where...?
- The door by the elevator.

- Here?
- Just walk down one flight.

Turn left.

It's nice here, right?

Wow, the Han River
looks gorgeous.

- It looks so nice from here.
- Yeah.

You can see it make
a hard curve... there.

Did you see his film?

- It came out recently.
- No, I didn't.

Watch it later,
if you have time.

Okay.

His films have changed.
They feel different to me.

Critics say so too,
but I can sense it myself.

They are really good.
So clear.

I'm not sure if "clear"
is the right word.

If that's how you see it.

Wait, I should try these.

But what's gotten clear?

It's up to the viewer,
I guess.

But I do think something changed.
My attitude toward filmmaking.

I used to feel a kind of compulsion,
but now it's much better.

Really?

Compulsion isn't necessarily
a bad thing for someone like me,

so at first I worried
I'd get too relaxed,

but it was okay.

For sure.

Before, I thought my life was shit,
so I just focused on filmmaking.

Life is so hard to fix, anyway.

But my thinking changed.

Fix life first.

So, increase your
satisfaction with life.

Then you won't
break down later.

I don't know, maybe
I'm just getting old.

Is fixing how you live
so easy?

Now that you're old,
you just want to be comfortable.

That could be it.
Right.

That drive. It doesn't have
the same hold on me.

Since you're successful now.

You must be quite rich.

- Rich?
- We have no money, really.

Why? You're ambitious.
Extremely so, I'd say.

- You think so? Was I?
- He's not ambitious.

Everyone's just trying their best.
Life isn't easy.

- Right?
- Yeah.

Are you still angry about
what happened before?

No, being angry
won't change anything.

I wasn't wanted, that's all.

Right. It wasn't me,
it was their decision.

I've got no power.
The investor is top dog.

They're the ones
who turned it down.

Top dog?

What kind of
expression is that?

I really wanted to do it.

I loved that book of yours.

Then you should've shot it.

But there was
nothing I could do.

No, you wanted too much.

Shoot your film, make money,
become famous...

No, I don't want that much.

Really. I only barely manage
to get my films made, that's all.

- What are these?
- Ah, these...

- Can I try them?
- You have to twist them first.

- Twist? Like this?
- Yes.

- The opposite, this way.
- Like this?

Turn it to focus.

Wait, hold it here,
and if you turn this ring,

it will focus.

- I can see well!
- Right?

- Better than that other one.
- Yes.

It may be small,
but it's high quality.

It's an expensive lens.
Very bright.

I don't know what
he looks at with that thing.

Don't know what
he keeps staring at.

Maybe he's looking
at women's legs.

What are you talking about?

That's ridiculous!

Here.

- Why are you laughing?
- It's funny.

Lots of people there.

It's gotten warm, right?

It's spring now.
Almost.

I want to walk there.
On a day like this, it'd be great.

Yes, it's a perfect day to
walk outside.

It smells like spring here.

Yes, you're right.

We came once before,
and it was nice, no people.

It's relaxing to get away
from Seoul. No crowds.

It'd be nice to live here.

That walking path
we saw from above,

that leads to here?

I think so.
It didn't branch off anywhere.

Anyway, thanks
for walking with me.

We're happy to join
Right?

Right, we've just been driving.
It'll be nice to walk.

Great.

- Shall we start, then?
- Okay.

What's she doing here?
Isn't she an actress?

You're right.
She's here?

- Just a minute.
- You'll say hi?

Of course.

She's an actress, right?
Funny seeing her here.

Yes, that's her.

- She's famous, right?
- Yes, she is. She used to be.

- Shall we go, too?
- Shall we?

Hyojin!

Kilsoo!

- Kilsoo, long time no see!
- Yes.

- You've been well?
- Yes.

You were out walking?
You must live nearby.

Yes, near here.

Hello.
You're a novelist, right?

You recognize me?

Yes, I'm a fan.

Of your books.

Thank you.
I'm a fan of yours, too.

Nice to meet you.
What brings you here?

Director Park drove me.
I said I wanted to walk.

Good choice.
This park is very quiet.

- Hello.
- Hello.

Nice to meet you.
I live with Director Park.

You live together?

- We're married.
- You're his wife.

- Yes, we've lived together a while.
- For how long?

How long has it been?
About 30 years?

Around that.
Including when we dated.

- That's a long time.
- Yes.

- You know each other well?
- We met for business once.

But not that well, right?

I didn't know you lived here.

- Have you lived here long?
- Not that long.

You must have walked a lot.
You're sweating.

Yes, about an hour,
walking quickly.

- It's a great day for walking.
- It's like spring, not cold at all.

But you aren't acting?
I haven't heard any news.

It's been a while...

No, I'm not acting.

You should!

Well, I shot a few independent films
by some acquaintances.

- But now I've stopped.
- Don't you want to?

I don't think so.

It's such a waste.

What a waste of your talent.
So many directors want to cast you.

Why don't you want to?

You think?

Why, no directors you
want to work with?

You must receive screenplays.
You have a lot of fans.

I don't know why
you're hiding out like this.

Everyone thinks it's such
a waste, you know?

- No, I don't know.
- You don't? It's true!

So many people are
waiting for you.

- What's a waste?
- What?

What's a waste?

Do you think
she's a child?

You think she doesn't
know anything?

But we value her so much,
it seems a waste.

Everyone chooses the life they want.
You think she's a child?

If she chose her path, and she's happy,
we should respect that.

A waste?
You know what that word implies?

It means she's
doing something wrong,

or living the wrong way.

How can you say that
to a grown person?

She's not in
elementary school.

Do you love her life
more than she does?

Or do you know more about life?
Are you wiser?

- You don't know your place!
- So that's how you feel.

Everyone wants to realize
their life in their own way.

Not everyone cares
about money.

You should
acknowledge that.

A waste? Just try not to
waste your own lives.

It's a waste because we value her.
She's still young.

She's young,
but she's not using her talent.

But what is she wasting,
exactly?

Should she keep shooting big
commercial films to not waste her life?

Would that satisfy you?

Life is so short,
you shouldn't miss your chance.

Everyone has their time.

You know that old saying,
don't waste your chance.

So that word just popped out.

Don't waste your breath.

Waste your breath...

Waste...

Honey, I think
we'd better go.

- Really?
- Yes.

- No walk?
- Next time.

Do you want a lift,
or will you walk here?

I think it's better
if you just go.

Thank you.

- We'll be going then.
- Yes, goodbye.

See you later.

It was great to see you!

- See you again.
- Yes, goodbye!

I'm sorry for shouting.

- Okay.
- Okay!

I'm sorry for shouting.

No, you really shut him up.

You've got great charisma.

Really?

Yes, you took the words
right out of his mouth.

You have charisma.

- I have charisma?
- Yes, you do.

If you say so.

By any chance...

Can you smell
anything on me?

No, do you smell something?

I walked so quickly,
I feel hot.

I sweated a lot.
This jacket is hot.

I need to walk, too.
I never have time.

Really?
My husband, too.

- Hello!
- I tend to walk quickly.

Here you are.
Why are you so late?

I slept late,
must've been tired.

I laid down for a quick nap
but couldn't wake up.

You're always late.

This is the novelist Kim Junhee.
You know her?

Of course. Hello.

Nice to meet you.

- I read your novel.
- Really? Thank you.

My husband's nephew.

His name's Gyeongwoo.
I see.

So you come here often?

Yes, I do.
It takes about an hour.

Walking really quickly
makes me feel great.

I like walking fast.

- With your husband?
- Not usually.

He doesn't like exercise.

But his work itself
is a kind of exercise.

- Doing artwork.
- Right, he does pottery.

- You knew that?
- Sure.

I read about the two of you
in an interview a few years ago.

It made me a fan
of both of you.

Thank you.

So you live nearby?

We used to live in Yangsuri,
but we moved here two years ago.

The maintenance fees
were too high.

Maintaining a house
is really expensive.

And it's cold.

I get cold easily, and it took
so much oil to keep it warm.

- Heating oil?
- Yes.

- But today it's so warm.
- Yes, it's really like spring.

He's majoring in film.

- What's your school again?
- KNUA.

The Korea National
University of Arts.

- Really? That's great!
- Yes.

You want to make films?

Yes, I'm studying hard.

Then let's talk about cinema.
I'm really interested in film.

- Really?
- Sure, let's talk film.

I'm still just a student.

He's really smart!
Despite his looks.

Don't embarrass me.

And he thinks of his uncle
as a total hero. Right?

Yes, that's right.

- Your name's Gyeongwoo?
- Yes.

Did you walk here, too?

I was late, so I drove.

That's why you're not
sweaty at all.

Then you know
how to use a camera?

Yes, sometimes I shoot my own work.
I know the basics.

- For the camera?
- Yes, the camera.

I'd better wash up.

Let's go together.
I need the restroom.

Really? Great.

It's that way.

- You okay?
- Yeah.

You waited long?

We were talking inside,
so it took a while.

That's fine.

She wants to shoot
a short film with us.

Really?

She wants you to do
camera and editing,

and your uncle and I
to act in it.

Really? With Uncle?
A short film?

I've always wanted to
shoot a film.

A lifetime dream,
I guess?

Meeting my favorite actress,
the thought struck me.

Of course,
she has to agree.

But if you can spare
a day or two,

I'd like to shoot
something short.

I'm really curious what kind
of film a novelist would make.

Right, me too.

You thought of it today
after meeting Kilsoo?

Yes, I'm such a fan of hers.

To be honest, I don't usually
get interested in actors.

But that's a precondition
for this project.

It has to be someone
I really like.

Thanks for
your kind words.

No, I really mean it.

I know. Thank you.

You're really great.

- Its so nice to meet, right?
- Yes, it is.

- I'm jealous.
- Really?

Two such great artists,
meeting and appreciating each other.

Thank you.

Thank you, Gyeongwoo.

You two are comfortable
together, right?

Of course,
you'd have to be interested,

but I think you can shoot it.

Just casually, up close,
with a digital camera.

That would be perfect.

Yes, I see.

All of the elements
have to converge.

- I thought that from the start.
- Really?

Most important is an actor
I can freely look at,

observe,
and feel with my heart,

and she's put in her
most comfortable state.

Then the camera...

will capture whatever
emerges from her at that time.

I want to record that
just as it is.

So the person this actor
meets in the film

has to be someone
she connects with,

who she feels
a deep emotion for.

All the feelings, glances,
and gestures between

I want to capture
that with the camera.

So everything has to be comfortable,
everything has to be real.

So that's your idea.

Yes, this is the idea
I've carried with me.

So it's similar to
a documentary, right?

No, it's not that.

What I want to shoot
isn't a documentary.

My film will have a story.
I'll write it, of course.

But that story won't prevent
the real things emerging

from the situation I set up.

It might be a simple story,
but I'll make one.

Whatever it
turns out to be,

it won't be
a documentary.

I see what you mean.

But what do you think,
Gyeongwoo?

Can you do it?
I'm not a filmmaker,

but I really want
to try this just once.

It sounds good to me.

I'm curious about
what you'll make.

And if my uncle
and aunt take part,

of course I'll want to help.

What do you think?

As for me...

- It's only a day or two?
- Yes.

Since I love
your work so much,

appearing in
your first ever film...

Anyway,
it should be interesting.

Thank you,
I'm so encouraged!

No, it should be fun.

What about your husband?
Will he do it?

It'd be great
if he would.

I don't know.
I can't say now.

I'll have to ask him.

Of course.

Since he's an artist too,
perhaps...

Of course.

- People are eating there.
- Right.

Is that allowed?

Sure, snacks should be okay.
It's a park, after all.

We should let them, then.

Then let's bring
something next time.

I can smell it.
Tteokbokki and kimbap.

You can smell that?

Your sense of smell
is amazing.

Yes. I can smell well.

Like a blodbound!

Really?

Her eyes, too.
Like a hawk.

No, my nose
is more sensitive.

It smells really good!

I'm amazed.
I can't smell a thing!

- Really?
- Are you hungry?

Yes, I am.
I didn't eat lunch.

- You must be starving, then.
- I want some ramen.

No, bibimbap.
That's what I want.

I'd like ramen.

Whenever I think of ramen,
I want to eat a bowl.

- I could eat two bowls right now.
- Really?

- Shall we go, then?
- Sure.

But isn't this path nice?
It'd be good to shoot here.

- It's really pretty.
- It is.

But don't get your hopes up.
I still need to ask my husband.

Of course.

Thanks so much.

- Thanks for driving us.
- No problem.

- Get some food there!
- Sure, enjoy your meal!

It was so nice to meet you.

- I'm a real fan, you know?
- Thanks.

See you next time.
Don't be late.

Bye.

Want some tteokbokki
after this?

I'll eat this first.

It's flour-based,
is that okay?

I like flour tteokbokki better.

Me too.

You must be feeling some doubt.

What does a novelist know about film?

No, on the contrary,
I'm intrigued!

I'm glad.

- There's a school playground.
- Yes.

Seems like a good day
for drinking.

- You feel like drinking?
- A bit.

Do you drink alcohol?

I like to.
But I've stopped.

I like makkeolli a lot.
Wine, too.

I like makkeolli, too.

But why don't you
drink these days?

- I've been dealing with some things.
- I see.

But why make a film?
Was it a dream of yours?

I've written many novels.
Very many.

Yes.

But these days I can't write.
It's been a while.

I didn't know.

I guess I've lost the
strength to write.

Really?

Of course, I can force myself.
I've done it all my life.

And something new
might come out of it.

Sure.

You can't find the energy?

No, it's not that.
How can I explain?

It didn't used to be so...
and writing was fun.

But now, my writing
feels exaggerated.

I can feel myself exaggerating.

- Really.
- Yes.

Like I have to keep inflating small things
into something meaningful.

And I have to pretend I'm the kind of
person who always felt those things.

That's a big burden.
And frankly, it's embarrassing.

I see.

Years ago, that sensitivity
of mine seemed interesting.

A kind of privilege, even.

And I believed in everything
I felt, so it was okay.

But I don't feel
that way anymore.

I've never been a writer
with a strong narrative style.

Part of me would like to try it,
but I don't feel up to it.

And even if I did, I doubt
it'd be very interesting.

But if I continue on
with my usual approach,

it all feels exaggerated.

Still, I've kept writing each day.
Since I'm a writer.

But then I just stopped.

We'll see what happens.

You really should rest.
For me, it helps a lot.

Thank you so much, Kilsoo.

You seem so honest.

I feel like drinking, too.

- Some days you need to drink.
- It's true.

Look at her.

- She was staring at you.
- Why would she?

Yes, she really was
staring at you.

Really? So cute.

- Because you're so pretty.
- Really?

What a cute kid.

- Just a minute.
- Yes.

- I should make a call.
- Go ahead.

Kilsoo?

- Did something happen? I'm close by.
- What a relief.

If you don't mind,
could you come over?

Two people who planned
to come can't make it.

So it'll just be the poet
with me and Hyunwoo.

I feel sorry to him.

I see what you mean.

But weren't they
the ones who invited him?

That's right.
It's a bit awkward...

He'll arrive in 30 minutes.

I'd appreciate it if you'd come.
Can you?

Okay. I'm nearby,
so I can at least stop in.

But it will be 30 minutes
before I can go.

Okay, that's fine.

Want me to bring tteokbokki?
I'm at Strawberry's.

Are you there now?

That would be great.

We'll be drinking makkeolli,
so that should go well with it.

- Can you buy two portions?
- Okay, I will.

Thank you.

- It's nothing.
- Okay.

Someone I know
needs me for something.

I'm really sorry, but I'll
have to go after eating.

- I'm so sorry.
- Not at all.

We can meet again.

- I'm so happy I met you.
- Me, too.

Or do you want to join us?
I'm sure it'd be okay.

- Who is it?
- I met her after moving here.

She's so friendly.
She's older than me.

- I really rely on her.
- I see.

She seems very educated,
very sensitive. I like her.

Should I join you, then?

I just like spending
time with you.

Great. Shall we drink?
They're having makkeolli there.

- Sounds wonderful!
- Yes.

- Is it far from here?
- No, it's nearby.

- 5 minutes away.
- Really?

- Then should we finish eating?
- Sure, we have time.

- She's back.
- There she is.

No need to finish.
I'll bring tteokbokki.

- Ma'am?
- Yes?

Can I have 3 portions
of tteokbokki?

- Tteokbokki?
- Yes, not too spicy.

Okay.

- Just a minute.
- Sure.

- It's here?
- Yes.

This bookstore?

The woman you mentioned
is the owner?

Yes.

I see.
Actually, I know her.

I met her today,
before meeting you.

Really?

She's my younger colleague.
We met often when she was in Seoul.

- I can't believe it.
- Quite a coincidence.

Will it be okay to
go in again?

It's fine. We'll just
tell her what happened.

Right.

- Shall we go in?
- Yes.

Hi!

- Drink your fill.
- Yes, thank you!

She already drank a lot.

I've seen your films.
You were really great.

Thank you!

Want some more?

- Did you two know each other?
- No, we just met today.

Really? I thought
you knew each other well.

We may shoot
a film together.

- Right?
- Yes.

- A film?
- A film?

She wants to shoot
a short film, with me.

I still need to get
her confirmation.

- It's really true.
- We agreed!

Really?
What kind of film?

I don't know.
Ask her yourself.

But you two just met
in the tower.

- No, the park.
- Right, the park.

That park where I walk.
We met there.

It's amazing.

Today's been
one of those days.

A really strange day.
Meeting all these people I know.

- How long has it been?
- It's been ages.

- 10 years since I saw you last.
- More, I think.

You're right.

Has it been that long?

I didn't know you two
knew each other.

Of course we do.

- I guess so.
- We were drinking buddies.

- We drank so much, right?
- We really did.

Right.

- Would you like some?
- Yes, thank you.

I couldn't say this before,

but it's a huge honor
to be sitting before you.

Don't be silly.

It's true. I have all your
poetry books, every one.

Really? Thank you.
That's pretty rare.

Not at all.

I'm so honored...

- Can I pour you a drink?
- Yes, sure.

- Would you like some?
- No, I'm okay.

You still have some left.

- Would you like some more?
- Me? Sure!

It tastes great today.

- Doesn't it?
- It's been ages. You know.

You haven't published anything
recently, have you?

- Delicious, right?
- Yes, it is.

Me?

- Because I can't write.
- You can't? Why not?

Well, maybe I'm all done.

- You're all done?
- Really.

Why do you think?

Who knows? You can never
know that kind of thing.

- I don't know!
- I don't know!

Still, don't give up.
You have talent.

Me?

- I'll try. What about you?
- I'm the same.

If I drink, I can write.
Drink some more, write some more.

You have your alcohol.

- It's my blessing!
- Right.

You can drink too.
You don't drink these days?

No, I want to live long.

Why live long?
What's the point?

Well, my doctors say
I should stop drinking.

- Doctors?
- They say to be careful.

Doctors always say that.

- All the time.
- Right.

But you have
so much talent.

- You're blessed!
- Me?

And you'll shoot a film
with me soon.

- Right?
- Yes.

Were you two
always so close?

I told you.
We were drinking buddies.

I never imagined
you two were close.

How could you?
We never told you.

Right.

You don't need
to know all that.

Okay.

You're so impressive.

- I'm so glad I met you today.
- Me too.

You are even more impressive.

Thank you!

Can we really
make a film?

Of course.
Let's do it for sure.

Sir, you're an
impressive man too.

Thank you.

- Have another drink.
- Thank you!

This is so nice.

People need to drink
once in a while.

- Right?
- Yes.

I'm really so happy
that I met you.

Me too, really!

I'm happy, too!
Another drink!

Another drink?

I'll get a bottle.
Wait, we're all out.

It's okay to drink.
What do doctors know?

Right.

It was so nice when
we drank together.

That was long ago.

- You were really cool then.
- Really?

But you've gotten old.

Of course,
soon I'll be 70!

Really? I guess so.

How old are you now?

Why ask that?
No need to tell everyone.

Really?

Ms. Kim, about our film...

What is the story?

Don't call me Ms. Kim.
Just call me Junhee.

Right. Junhee!

That's a bit much.

I haven't decided
the story yet.

If your husband agrees,
then I'll think of one.

Why?

Then I'll be able to write.
Like I said in the park.

I can write after
choosing the people.

- Really?
- Yes.

- I see.
- Yes.

Seeing you right now,

I just thought of a story.

You did?

- It came to me right now.
- Really?

What's the story?

No, don't.
Don't say anything.

This is mine. Don't.

Okay.

Don't spoil it.
Just don't say anything, okay?

- You always spoil things.
- Okay then.

- She doesn't want me to say.
- What is it?

No, Kilsoo.

If your husband agrees,
I'll write the story.

But the story
isn't so important.

- Really?
- Yes.

The story's not
that important.

A birthday,
for example.

We could make
a story out of that.

It's your birthday,
but your husband forgot.

So you quarrel, and then
you get really angry.

So you leave for
your mother's house.

Then your husband arrives there,
as if nothing had happened.

So he takes you two
out to a restaurant,

and go walk in the park
to cheer you up.

Even this kind of story
can be used.

- Sounds interesting!
- Really?

I like that story.

Because that really
happened to us.

What kind of story is that?

And then what?

That's it, for now.

Isn't it too offhand? Don't you need
something to pull people in?

I'll do that later.

I like it!
Because it really happened.

- Really?
- Yes, it was exactly the same!

So I really like it.

That's great!

No, a story needs plot.

That's what we expect
from a storyteller.

Another drink?

Sure, thanks.

Kilsoo drank so much.
How will she get home?

She'll wake up soon.
She always sleeps while drunk.

It won't take long.
She'll wake up in an hour.

That's why she said
she doesn't drink.

She and her husband
agreed not to.

Why?

Because it's not good for her.

Though she likes it.

Should we call her husband?

I did already.
I said she was with me.

But were you and
the poet really close?

We used to spend
a lot of time together.

He's lost his fire.
Used to be scary to see him drink.

- Really?
- Yes.

He drinks a lot now, too.

No, he was scary back then.

He's gotten old.

Did anything happen
between you two?

What could happen?

- Really?
- Why? Does it look that way?

I've never seen hima
yield to anyone.

It's surprising.

We slept together once
after drinking, that's all.

I see.

But he kept calling me
afterwards.

It began to get tiring.

So I got drunk and told him off.
To snap him out of it.

After that we didn't meet often.
It got uncomfortable.

Shouldn't sleep with men recklessly.
Especially sensitive types like him.

Yes, he is sensitive.

I walked too much,
I'm tired.

Right.
We drank so much.

We did. Too much.

I used to go with him
everywhere.

- Did you?
- Yes.

He writes what he lives.
Such writers are rare.

Right.

Don't go tell anyone.

I don't even meet anyone.

Don't worry.

For his sake, at least.

Okay.

Have some more.

Thanks.

What story did you
think of before?

What do you mean?

You said you thought of
a story for Kilsoo.

Did I say that?
Right.

I can't remember.

Really?

I forget those things
right away.

It's like smoke.

Too bad you didn't
write it down.

That happens often. If you don't
write it down, you forget.

- Some more?
- Sure, just a minute.

You're so healthy.

Thank you.

She sleeps anywhere,
doesn't she?

She always does that.
But she'll wake up soon.

I see.

Life as an actress...
She seems pure-hearted.

It's true.
She really is.

That's good.

You look pure-hearted, too.

No.

No? Thank you.

- Hello.
- Hi!

- Hello.
- Hello, nice to meet you.

Nice to meet you.

Ms. Kim is waiting inside.

Really?

We arrived early.
This is programmer Shim Jaewon.

Hello.

- My friend.
- Really?

- Thanks for coming.
- Thank you.

You came early?

Yes, around 8:00.

We've already had one screening.
For film critics.

I see.

Yes, two people came.

- Two people?
- Yes.

- Shall we go in?
- Yes.

This way.

You can sit here.

- Thank you. Sit down.
- Yes.

- Is this okay, in the front?
- Yes.

Should I watch myself?
Will you watch it?

Do you want me to?

- You've seen it?
- I'll be outside.

Okay.

- Gyeongwoo, will you watch?
- No, I'll stay outside too.

If you're thirsty...

- No, I'm fine.
- Really?

This theater is really nice.

Yes, it is. I'm happy to
watch it in a place like this.

Today was my first time
seeing it on a big screen.

- It's nice.
- Yes.

I'm happy to show it
to you on this big screen.

- I'm excited.
- Yes.

- Congratulations.
- Thank you.

To you, too.

- I look forward to it.
- Yes.

I'm really curious
to hear what you think.

Me too. Really.

- Enjoy the movie.
- Yes.

- Can we start right away?
- Yes, we'll start now.

See you.

- It started now.
- Thank you.

It's nothing.

She came alone. I thought
they'd come together.

Her husband said
something came up.

- A visitor from abroad.
- I see.

- Too bad he couldn't come.
- You're right.

What time will
the film end?

- We have until noon?
- Yes, until noon is fine.

It's 47 minutes long,
so it'll finish at 11:16.

- 11:16?
- Yes.

11:16...

11:16...

I'll set my alarm for
5 minutes before.

No need, I'll be watching.

No, what if Kilsoo comes out
and we're not here?

Right.

Want to see the rooftop?
It's really nice.

Oh really?

Shall we go?
It's great.

- Shall we, then?
- Yes, this way.

I'll look around
as we wait.

I love rooftops.

They set it up
really well here.

- Really?
- Yes.

- You like it?
- Yes, it's great.

It's really well done.

- They worked hard on it.
- Yes.

Can I smoke over there?

Smoke?
It's a non-smoking area.

It's an e-cigarette.

An e-cigarette?

Yes, I really need
a smoke now.

Then can you smoke
over there?

- An employee might come up.
- Of course.

- Thank you.
- Sure.

She must want to smoke
now that the film's playing.

Sure. But she smokes
a lot in general.

I wanted to see it, too.

- You should've seen it this morning.
- No.

If someone comes,
I need to be outside.

Thanks anyway,
for letting us screen it.

It was the manager's decision,
not mine.

Thanks anyways.

How is the film?
Your thoughts?

Watch it later
It's a bit unusual.

- You might like it.
- Really?

It might be
your kind of film.

- If it suits you, it's great.
- I'll need to watch it.

Watch it for sure.

And working on it?
How was that?

What's it like
working with a novelist?

She's passionate,
to a surprising degree.

- Really?
- Yes.

And her ideas are very
clearly thought out.

She knows exactly
what she's thinking.

- Really?
- I should learn from her.

And while editing,

we watched it...
at least 300 times?

Seriously, from
beginning to end.

- Really?
- Yeah.

- That's amazing.
- A bit excessive?

She's much more meticulous
than the film students I know.

I was really surprised.

Wow.

Must have been hard.

Well, a bit.

Isn't this pretty?

So pretty.

Here comes the bride.

- Here's another fallen leaf.
- Pretty color, right?

This one too? No, it's
prettier with just two.

- Like this?
- In the back.

It's pretty with
this one, too.

This won't fit in.

- It's so pretty.
- Yes.

- Are you shooting in color?
- No.

- Black and white?
- Yes.

What a shame.
It's so pretty.

We can shoot in color.

Look how big it is.

But it's prettier
with just two.

So nice.

- I love you.
- I love you.

Lee Hyeyoung Kim Minhee Seo Younghwa
Park Miso Kwon Haehyo Cho Yunhee
Ha Seongguk Ki Joobong Lee Eunmi Kim Siha

production manager Kim Minhee
sound Seo Jihoon

production, screenplay, direction,
cinematography, editing, music
Hong Sangsoo

poster Song Eanmi, Leem Jeonghye
english translation Darcy Paquet

production Jeonwonsa Film Co.
world sales Finecut

You finished watching?

Is no one here?

No, I don't see her.

- She may be on the roof.
- On the roof?

Yes, I think
she's smoking up there.

I'll go up then.

You can take this elevator.

- Thank you.
- Sure.

Where did she go?

I'm sure she's up there.

I have work in here,
but go on up.

- Thank you.
- Yes.