The Turning Gate (2002)

Essential Viewing

South Korea

Feature Film

Original Title: 생활의 발견

Writer/Director: Hong Sang-soo

Cinematographer: Choi Yeong-taek

Composer: Il Won

Cast: Kim Sang-kyung, Kim Hak-sun, Ye Ji-won, Chu Sang-mi

Featuring some exquisitely composed images and a number of affecting performances, Hong’s restrained and deliberate yet gently funny and hugely moving film depicts the misadventures of a struggling actor, following him as he takes a trip to see an old friend to help forget his woes – a trip which leads to the consumption of much alcohol, to much discussion and argument, and to a number of ill-advised, heart-breaking sexual encounters. Iain.Stott