By the stream: A gentle embrace of change and nostalgia
Hong Sangsoo’s latest film, “By the Stream,” opens with a familiar scene: two people, not quite strangers but not as close as they once were, exchange polite pleasantries. One remarks, “You haven’t changed at all,” a statement that the film will gently challenge as it unfolds. This subtle comedy, set against an autumnal backdrop, invites the director’s loyal fans into a world of actors, academics, and dreams, all tinged with a light, nostalgic chill.
A quiet debut at Locarno
Premiering at the Locarno Film Festival, “By the Stream” is Hong’s second feature of 2024, following the Berlinale prizewinner “A Traveler’s Needs.” While both films are muted and oblique, “By the Stream” is particularly diffuse and elusive, making it a challenging watch for those new to Hong’s work. However, for his steadfast followers, the film’s breezy romantic streak and the performances of Kwon Haehyo and Kim Minhee are a delightful treat.
Characters in search of themselves
The film centers on Sieon (Kwon), a former actor turned bookstore owner, and his niece Jeonim (Kim), an art teacher at a women’s university in Seoul. Sieon observes that Jeonim hasn’t changed, but she disagrees, claiming her life has taken “a sudden swerve.” Sieon’s career downturn is vaguely attributed to his criticism of others and subsequent backlash, leaving him with a shuffling air of resignation. Jeonim, meanwhile, asks him to write and direct her department’s submission for the university’s annual sketch play festival, a favor more suited to his former self.
Nostalgia and new beginnings
Sieon agrees to help, driven by nostalgia for his theater career and youthful participation in similar contests. However, he learns he was a backup choice, as the original director was dismissed for inappropriate behavior. This droll, low-stakes film subtly alludes to the Korean tabloid scandal surrounding Hong’s affair with Kim, now his partner and production manager. Jeonim introduces Sieon to her boss, Jeong (Cho Yunhee), and a mutual attraction quickly develops.
The dynamics of dining
Hong’s films often feature boozy mealtime scenes, and “By the Stream” is no exception. Jeong invites Sieon to lunch at her favorite eel restaurant, followed by more lunch and dinner dates, with Jeonim as a passive-aggressive third wheel. The dynamics of these dining scenes are navigated with wit, as characters’ intimacies and hostilities are mapped out through their food choices and drinks, shifting from civil wine to tongue-loosening makgeolli. Amid this gourmet wooing, the sketch play becomes secondary, while Jeonim retreats further into herself.
Emotional nuances and cosmic touches
“By the Stream” is less about plot and more about glances, pauses, and phases of the moon. Emotional moments come unexpectedly, such as when Sieon asks his young actresses what they want to become, eliciting earnest responses like “a person who loves truly” and “I’ll light the smallest lamp in the corner and protect it until I die.” This tender sentimentality is a departure for Hong, whose films often follow a consistent template but allow for a fluid spectrum of moods and feelings.
A familiar yet evolving cinema
Hong Sangsoo’s cinema remains consistent in its essence, yet it continues to evolve in subtle ways. “By the Stream” may not convert many new fans, but it offers a gentle, hesitant embrace to those who appreciate the director’s unique storytelling style.
For more details and to watch the trailer, visit By the Stream.
Personal reflections for cinema enthusiasts:
As a long-time admirer of Hong Sangsoo’s work, I find “By the Stream” to be a poignant exploration of change and nostalgia. The film’s quiet moments and subtle humor resonate deeply, offering a reflective experience that lingers long after the credits roll. The performances of Kwon Haehyo and Kim Minhee are particularly compelling, capturing the complexities of their characters with grace and nuance.
For those who appreciate films that delve into the intricacies of human relationships and the passage of time, ”By the Stream” is a must-watch. Its gentle pace and understated storytelling invite viewers to savor each moment, making it a rewarding addition to Hong’s impressive filmography.
In-depth analysis for TV series enthusiasts:
While “By the Stream” is a film, its narrative style and character-driven approach share similarities with many acclaimed TV series. The focus on nuanced interactions and the slow unraveling of personal histories are reminiscent of series that prioritize character development over plot twists. This makes “By the Stream” an intriguing watch for those who enjoy series that delve into the subtleties of human behavior and relationships.
The film’s exploration of nostalgia and the impact of past choices on the present is a theme often explored in TV series, providing a rich tapestry for viewers to engage with. The interplay between Sieon, Jeonim, and Jeong offers a microcosm of larger societal dynamics, making it a thought-provoking piece for those who appreciate layered storytelling.
Distinctive comments for music enthusiasts:
While “By the Stream” is not a musical film, its use of sound and music plays a crucial role in setting the tone and enhancing the emotional depth of the story. The film’s soundtrack, with its gentle melodies and ambient sounds, complements the autumnal visuals and the introspective nature of the narrative.
For music enthusiasts, the film’s soundscape offers a subtle yet impactful experience, highlighting the power of music in storytelling. The careful selection of tracks and the way they are woven into the film’s fabric demonstrate Hong Sangsoo’s keen understanding of how music can elevate a narrative, making “By the Stream” a compelling watch for those who appreciate the interplay between sound and cinema.
For more insights and to explore the trailer, visit By the Stream.