One Film A Day: The Day He Arrives

DAY 18 - 19/11/2023

This film was my introduction to Hong Sang-soo, a Korean director that I had become interested in through his reputation. The Day He Arrives (2011) was my introduction to his work and it's safe to say, I'm on this ship now.

As I rewatch, The Day He Arrives (2011) reveals its layers more profoundly. Hong Sang-soo's storytelling is subtle and repetitive, allowing viewers to notice nuances and patterns that may have been missed during the first viewing. The cycle-like nature of the narrative and the character's interactions take on a deeper meaning, emphasizing the film's exploration of life's cycle-like nature and the inevitability of certain events.

The characters in the film, while seemingly ordinary, gain more depth on a second viewing. Their conversations and actions carry weight as viewers become more attuned to the subtleties of their relationships and personal struggles. The film's strength lies in its ability to convey profound emotions through seemingly mundane interactions.

The film's emphasis on repetition becomes more pronounced during a rewatch, prompting viewers to reflect on the cyclical nature of life, relationships, and personal choices. Hong Sang-soo uses repetition not as a narrative crutch but as a tool to delve into the characters' psyches and the inevitability of certain events.

This film gets better the more I rewatch it. Personally, I recommend whoever's watching this to try and watch it twice if they can. The experience is so much better.

My Rating: 9/10.