Title: Hong Sang-soo’s Latest Film “In Our Day” Explores Life and Love in a Cinematic Universe
In a world where superheroes take a backseat to poets, filmmakers, and actors, Hong Sang-soo’s latest film “In Our Day” offers a refreshing take on storytelling. The South Korean auteur’s unique cinematic universe celebrates the everyday moments of life and love, rather than epic battles and planetary threats.
The film follows two separate parties over the course of a single afternoon, each grappling with their own existential questions. Sangwon, an actress contemplating retirement, spends the day with her friend and younger cousin, while Uiju, an old poet, imparts life lessons to two university students in his apartment.
Unlike in many of Hong’s films, the two storylines in “In Our Day” do not intersect. Instead, they are connected by a simple culinary hack: mixing hot pepper paste into ramyun. This small pleasure takes on greater significance for Uiju, who is trying to abstain from drinking and smoking on doctor’s orders but finds it difficult to resist.
Throughout the film, moments of existential wisdom are buried in the mundane, reminding viewers of the beauty in life’s simple pleasures. As Uiju advises a young pupil, “Don’t look for meaning. That’s cowardice. Just jump in the water. Don’t try knowing it all before jumping, like a coward.”
“In Our Day” offers a glimpse into the human experience, exploring the complexities of life and love in a subtle and thought-provoking manner. The film, running at 1 hour and 23 minutes, is a must-see for fans of Hong Sang-soo’s work and those looking for a deeper exploration of the human condition.
