Nobody's Daughter Haewon
Nobody's Daughter Haewon

Movie spotlight

Nobody's Daughter Haewon

2013
Movie
91 min
Korean

Haewon, a college student, wants to end her secret affair with her professor, Seongjun. Feeling depressed after bidding farewell to her mother who is set to immigrate to Canada the next day, Haewon seeks out Seongjun again after a long time. That day, they run into her classmates at a restaurant and their relationship gets revealed. Haewon gets more agitated and Seongjun makes an extreme suggestion to run away together… Haewon dreams often. Her dreams will be compared to her waking life, but none can be denied as being a part of her life.

Insights

IMDb6.6/10
Rotten Tomatoes88%
Metacritic72/100
Google Users78%
Director: Hong Sang-sooGenres: Drama, Romance

Plot Summary

Haewon, a film student, is distraught as her mother is to be sent to the United States. She plans to meet her boyfriend, a married professor, but their encounter leads to unexpected complications. Haewon then embarks on a series of meetings and encounters that leave her questioning her reality and relationships. The film follows her emotional journey as she navigates love, loss, and self-discovery in Seoul.

Critical Reception

Nobody's Daughter Haewon received generally positive reviews from critics, who praised its distinctive directorial style and nuanced exploration of human relationships. The film was noted for its characteristic Hong Sang-soo blend of humor, melancholy, and realistic dialogue. While some found its pacing deliberate, many appreciated its introspective and character-driven narrative.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its subtle yet profound examination of love, loss, and the complexities of human connection.

  • Hong Sang-soo's signature minimalist style and observational humor are highlighted as key strengths.

  • The film's ambiguity and open-ended nature are seen as both a point of discussion and a potential barrier for some viewers.

Google audience: Google users generally appreciate the film's realistic portrayal of relationships and emotional depth. Many found Haewon's journey relatable and moving, though some noted the film's contemplative pace.

Awards & Accolades

Nominated for the Palme d'Or at the 2013 Cannes Film Festival.

Fun Fact

The film was shot on location in Seoul, with many scenes taking place in cafes and parks, typical of Hong Sang-soo's penchant for using everyday urban environments.

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TMDB Reviews

1 reviews
CinemaSerf

CinemaSerf

The eponymous girl (Jung Eun-chae) is struggling to come to terms with her mother's imminent emigration to Canada. The day before her departure, the pair meet to spend the day together and when they part, the daughter starts to pine a littl...