24/26
A French woman drinks makgeolli in Korea after losing her means of income, then teaches French to two Korean women. Referenced in Close-Up: The Best Films and Other Results of 2024 (2024). “Yeohaengjaui Pilyo” is a film that sparks artistic debate. While it aims to blend the subtleties of cultural exchange with personal growth, its execution falls short, presenting a picture that feels unfinished. The narrative, which follows a French woman’s journey of self-discovery in Korea through teaching and learning, is marred by meandering pacing and underdeveloped character arcs. The director, while respected by critics, seems to have missed the opportunity to polish this story into the gem it could have been. Critics and audiences alike must ask themselves: does the film’s reputation depend on its director’s past praise, or does it stand on its own merits? It is essential to peel back the film’s cloak of prestige and assess its true artistic worth. As it stands, this cinematographic work requires a more critical look and an honest discourse to raise the debate on taste and art in cinema. What a shame!