Original subtitles

"The Day She Returns"

I'll pull this down. It's too bright.

- I'll do it. - Thanks.

Should I close this side too?

I think that's enough.

That's good.

Is it okay to keep the blinds down?

Yeah, that's fine.

I know the owner.

If they ask us to open them, we'll open them.

I prefer it this way.

People walking by might stare at us.

That's not why.

It's because of my eyes.

Are your eyes bothering you?

No, they've just gotten weaker.

I can't see as well as I used to.

But I can still see the flowers.

There are flowers here!

They're beautiful.

Yes, they are.

What did you think of our film?

- Me? - Yeah.

I'm curious.

I'm supposed to be the one asking questions.

Even so, I'm curious.

I like hearing what people think.

I thought it was wonderful.

- Really? - Yeah.

It really made me think.

I'm still thinking about it.

You're not just saying that?

No.

That's great.

How did you end up doing an independent film?

Why? Is there a reason I shouldn't have?

That's not what I mean.

It's just that you hadn't acted in a long time.

I'm sure a lot of directors wanted to work with you.

No, not really.

I don't think they knew I wanted to act again.

I see.

Actually, I reached out to a few people I knew.

Nothing came of it.

Really?

They didn't show any interest at all.

No reply. They ignored me.

Really?

But you know...

I really loved this screenplay.

Somehow the director knew he should send it to me.

As for the director...

Since I liked the script, I went to meet him.

And he's an incredibly serious person.

A very respectable man.

He seemed very kind to me.

I felt I could trust him and work with him.

I'm glad you did.

It's a wonderful film.

Really?

Or are you just saying that because I'm here?

Not at all.

Just wait until you read what I write about it.

Then you'll know.

Okay. I will.

Journalists, or people like me who write,

often aren't very good at expressing ourselves aloud.

Writing is easier.

All right. I'll read it.

By the way, how old are you?

I'm 26.

Wow.

You're young. Very young...

Yeah.

Can you tell me what it was like returning to acting after 10 years?

Actually, it's been longer.

It's been 12 years.

You must have been very young then.

Of course I was.

Even so, I've seen many of your TV dramas and films.

Really? From back then?

Your more famous dramas are online.

I know.

Some of your films can be downloaded too.

- There are some DVDs as well. - Really?

I didn't know...

You were a huge star back then.

I was pretty back then.

You're still very beautiful!

You don't even have a single wrinkle.

You've really taken care of yourself.

Or were you simply born this way?

I think I was born this way.

My mother's the same.

She's over 70 now, but she's still very beautiful.

From behind, she looks about 40 or 50.

I swear.

Really?

It happened recently.

We went to a shopping centre, and in the car park,

my mother was walking ahead of me.

From behind, she really looked like someone in her 40s.

I was genuinely shocked.

How can someone over 70 look like that?

I think it's genetic.

The coffee here is good, isn't it?

It tastes like café coffee.

Yeah, it's really good.

I think it's a German restaurant.

Yes, it is.

The chef is actually German.

Really?

The owner is Korean, and her husband is German.

He does the cooking.

Before coming here, he had a restaurant in Berlin.

I should come here for a meal sometime.

Come and try it sometime.

The food has a simple, clean taste.

He doesn't use any additives.

You can tell he uses high-quality ingredients.

He's German, so his meat dishes are especially good.

That sounds wonderful!

Would you like to try some now?

Now?

No, I'm full, thanks.

Let me know if you change your mind. We can eat while we talk.

No, it's okay. I'm too nervous right now.

Really? You don't look nervous at all.

I swear.

I get nervous very easily.

Okay, we'll eat here another time.

What was your question again?

Why did you decide to return to acting...

My daughter's a little older now, so I have some free time.

I thought perhaps I should start working again.

So your daughter is older now?

She's 11.

She told me

I should go out and work.

As if she were giving me permission, she told me to work and earn money.

She said that?

I'm not sure what made her think that way.

But she said I should work.

So it's just the two of you living together?

Yes. We used to have a live-in housekeeper,

but she got too old and went to live with her son.

So you do the housework yourself?

Someone comes to clean three times a week.

You're divorced, right?

Yes. I'm divorced.

Was getting divorced difficult?

Divorce is difficult. Is it ever easy for anyone?

That's true.

It must have been very hard, right?

Are you curious about that?

Do I have to talk about it here?

No, you don't have to.

If there's anything you'd like to say about it,

feel free. People are interested in knowing.

Otherwise, you don't have to.

It's just...

it wouldn't be fair to my ex-husband.

So I'd rather not talk about it.

Of course. I understand.

If it's about the film,

you can ask me anything you like. Anything.

Okay.

I really liked the final scene.

It really moved me. I mean it.

- Really? - Yes.

When I saw you from behind, walking alone across Jeju,

you looked so lonely.

My eyes filled with tears.

Really?

The wind was blowing so hard.

Even after everything she had been through,

this woman kept moving forward with courage. That's what I felt.

As sad as it was,

it somehow gave me strength.

That I have to be strong.

And whatever hardship I may face,

I'll gain just as much strength to overcome it.

So I have to keep going.

It was strange. I felt that strength surging through me.

It was wonderful.

I see.

And it really gave me a lot to think about.

I need to think about it more.

So you liked it.

I like the ending too.

Things have been difficult for me lately.

So difficult that I didn't know what to do.

Really?

- You look so cheerful. - I'm really not.

I just don't let others see it.

I see.

Until I can solve my problems,

I'd rather not pour my heart out

to other people.

What's so difficult?

Just... the work I do,

and my relationships with people close to me.

It's hard to do as well as I'd like.

What exactly is difficult for you?

I think my expectations may be too high.

But I can't decide whether they really are too high.

So I'm struggling with that confusion.

Is it really difficult?

Yes, a little.

But I'm sure everyone else struggles like I do.

Would you like a beer?

No, thanks. It's still early.

Do you like alcohol?

Alcohol?

A little, but I hardly drink these days.

You don't drink?

My body doesn't handle alcohol well, and I used to overdo it.

So I'm being careful these days.

But one glass of beer is fine.

The German beer here is excellent. It's on tap.

Would you like one?

No, I really don't feel like it.

- But you should have one. - No.

I'm fine too.

I'll resist as well.

As you go about your daily life,

what matters most to you these days?

What's your greatest concern?

I observe how my mind works.

You observe your mind?

Usually.

We try to give meaning to even the smallest things.

Yes.

For example,

there's a friend I've grown apart from.

One day I thought of her and felt sorry for her.

So I bought her a small gift.

I was about to send it, and thought I'd include a note.

I took out a fountain pen I hadn't used in years.

I took the cap off,

and suddenly the ink went everywhere.

My fingers were completely black.

It got under my nails, so I couldn't wash it off.

It felt like some kind of sign...

not to contact them.

To leave the relationship just as it is.

I've done that too.

I wasn't seeing things as they really were.

I was looking at a story I'd created in my own mind.

And thinking it was a sign.

They were just ink-stained fingers,

but we feel the need to interpret everything.

It gets exhausting.

Sometimes I hate it.

It sounds like you're practising Taoism.

I'm not sure it's that,

I just want to see things as they really are.

I think that's important.

Why is it so important?

I don't think we can live without interpreting things.

Isn't understanding just another form of interpretation?

There are far too many interpretations in this world.

Ideals, images, stories... they're all interpretations.

When one interpretation stops working,

we jump to another.

Then suddenly,

life is over.

I think Zen Buddhism says something similar.

Of course. I've read books on Buddhism and other things.

But I think the important thing is to experience it yourself.

All interpretations ultimately lead to anxiety.

If you can see things exactly as they are,

then you can experience true peace.

I once went to Seoraksan, and there wasn't another soul around.

I sat beside a little stream,

for a very long time.

That's when I had that experience.

Truly,

I could see everything before me exactly as it was.

I saw things just as they were.

Only that once.

I experienced it just that one time.

I really need to think about that.

Would you like a beer?

I think I'm okay.

But if you'd like one...

No, no.

I don't need one.

I'm on a diet.

I'd better not drink.

You're dieting?

What's your diet like?

I don't eat flour or sugar at all.

Whenever I can, I do intermittent fasting.

I also do strength training at the gym twice a week.

But now that I'm older, losing weight is harder.

Still, I have no choice. I'm trying to make a comeback.

How do you do intermittent fasting?

You just don't eat.

You skip breakfast and dinner.

You eat all your meals within a six- to eight-hour window.

From noon until six.

You don't eat the rest of the time.

That must be hard.

I always have to eat breakfast.

It's not easy.

- Are you in there? - Yes.

Your time's up.

Sorry.

One last question. Any advice for young people?

Just one question.

Okay.

Sorry, there's someone after you.

My apologies.

Love yourselves.

Really, love yourselves more than anything else.

That's all?

Thank you.

No need to rush off.

Thank you.

Director, I really loved your film.

Thank you.

Goodbye.

Goodbye!

How much time is left?

You should go in now.

Thank you.

You're welcome.

Where's Ji-hoon?

He walked the journalist to the subway, but it's taking a while.

I see.

How did it go?

It went well.

Though I think I talked too much.

I'm going to the bathroom.

Okay.

I've had too much coffee.

Too much?

I've had three cups already.

I was trying to wake myself up, but I overdid it.

Have you had lots of interviews?

No, just too much coffee.

There weren't that many interviews.

I'm sure you've had heaps.

No, there's only one more after this.

Then I'm done.

Are you tired?

A little.

You must be exhausted.

I am too.

Really?

It's so nice to meet you.

Thank you.

What did you think of the film?

The film?

Can I be honest?

Of course.

Honestly, I'm not sure what it's trying to say.

Really?

I watched it to the end, but I still couldn't work it out.

Some scenes were beautiful and really moving, but...

still...

I couldn't connect everything into a coherent story.

I don't know what it's trying to say.

It made me think about lots of things,

but in the end they never came together.

I see.

Maybe it's just me.

Or maybe not...

Either way, that's how I felt.

Then why did you want to interview me?

This interview?

I've always wanted to meet you in person.

I've admired you for years.

Really?

Yes.

I'm so happy to meet you.

I understand what you mean.

But that's what I like about the film.

I see.

It doesn't force a particular message or conclusion.

It's better to simply go along with the film.

I don't know much about cinema.

The easy-to-watch films are entertaining.

Right.

I've watched a lot of those.

You can just enjoy them without thinking too much.

They're great fun.

That's all I watched growing up.

But as I've gotten older,

they've started to feel very artificial.

It's like the film is manipulating me...

or thinks I'm an idiot.

That's how it feels.

Like riding a roller coaster...

up and down,

up and down...

It doesn't interest me anymore.

You're right. It's too predictable.

Isn't a film like this better?

I really love it.

Yeah.

I'm just an ordinary viewer.

No, I'm not criticising you.

Honestly, I really love this film too.

Yeah.

But you're really beautiful.

What?

Thank you.

When the door opened and you walked in,

I thought, "She's so beautiful."

A journalist?

I thought, can a journalist really be this beautiful?

Not at all.

You're prettier than actresses.

Thank you so much.

You're really beautiful.

Very attractive.

Really?

Wow, thank you.

I love your smile.

It's so endearing.

Thank you.

Are your eyes brown?

Brown eyes are very attractive.

Yes, they're brown.

But there's something so endearing about your gaze.

Just before you burst out laughing,

and afterwards, that cool, childlike yet detached air you give off...

it's beautiful.

I...

Can I say this?

You're like a little child.

An innocent child.

Really?

Thank you.

I think you're an honest person.

Yes, I am.

Right.

But I don't think being too honest is good either.

I fought with my boyfriend about that yesterday.

Really?

As long as I'm being honest, I feel I can attack anyone.

"Why can't you be more honest? You're being a coward."

"Be more honest!" That's how I attack him.

- You fought about that? - Yeah.

It was a serious fight.

But in the morning, seeing his face made me feel better again.

He looked worth forgiving?

You have to be in the right mood and move at the right pace

before you feel ready.

But I ignored that and pressured him to tell me how he really felt.

So it was difficult for him.

I pushed too hard.

Even though I was only trying to be honest.

So you know that yourself.

I know, but it's hard to do.

It's not easy to act against your nature.

Yeah, you're right.

Just live as you are. Tell him to understand you.

Yeah, we need to understand each other gradually.

So do you live alone now?

No.

I live with my daughter.

Oh, your daughter.

I got divorced two years ago and live with my daughter.

Yes, I'd heard you were divorced.

But how are you getting by?

Are you happy these days?

I am.

Because I live with my daughter.

We have a dog too.

You have a dog?

Yes.

I really want a dog too.

They're so cute.

He's really adorable.

He's like...

How should I put it, a moving tree?

He's like nature itself.

Yeah.

Just watching him sleep makes me so happy.

Seeing him walk around the house

really lifts my spirits.

What is he thinking?

What does he want?

Everything about him is so adorable.

He's so cute.

With my daughter, I'm often worried.

There's something to worry about every day.

I'm so grateful for her, and I love her so much.

But I can't help worrying all the time.

But the dog is truly a blessing.

Whatever he does, he makes me happy.

He's so adorable.

You clearly love him a lot.

I can't help it.

Right.

Honestly, people aren't all that kind.

We have to make an effort to be kind.

Because we live together and need one another.

But even so,

we're all growing darker inside.

We feel crushed, pressured and exhausted.

But how can we preserve an innocent face

when our souls have been torn apart?

It takes a lot of effort to see only the good things.

But you know,

we really aren't that kind.

Right.

You're right.

Recently, I saw a dog on TV that lived to be 36.

Really?

It's hard to imagine.

But that dog had lived that long.

He was very old, and the fur on his back was gone.

He looked as though he could barely walk.

But when you looked at his face,

it was exactly the same.

He still looked like an angel.

In human years, that dog was 200.

And yet,

he was still an angel.

Dogs are angels until the moment they die.

They die like angels.

I need to get a dog!

You definitely should! They're wonderful.

- Every day... - My boyfriend hates dog hair.

So I can't get one.

Some dogs don't shed, like Maltese or poodles.

But they're hard to care for because they're so energetic.

There's a Maltese-poodle mix called a Maltipoo.

They're so adorable. Really!

Yeah, I know.

I should talk to my boyfriend again.

You should.

What breed is yours?

A Pomeranian.

A Pomeranian...

How long have you been with your boyfriend?

Three months now.

Really?

That's not very long.

I thought it had been much longer.

- You did? - Yeah.

From the way you spoke, it sounded like you'd been together for years.

When I start seeing someone, I focus on them intensely.

I don't socialise with other people.

Sometimes I do, but it exhausts me.

With my boyfriend, it's different.

Even if I get tired, it's a different kind of tiredness.

Somehow, I need a man beside me.

Isn't there anyone else around you?

No. I like people, but it's hard to spend too much time with them.

I'm the same.

- Are you the eldest or second child? - The eldest.

Me too.

Do you have any siblings?

A younger brother.

He's doing his military service.

Are you close?

Yes.

Would you like a beer? The draught beer here is good.

It's German draught beer. It's excellent.

Yes, please.

Excuse me!

Two draught beers, please.

Two draught beers?

Thank you.

Is this a German restaurant?

Yes, it is.

I've never been to a German restaurant before.

The chef here is German.

He had a small restaurant in Berlin.

The owner is Korean. Her husband does the cooking.

And their children are the waiters.

Really?

It's a family restaurant.

Come here with your boyfriend sometime.

Yes, we really should.

My boyfriend loves sausages and meat.

German sausages are good, right?

Of course. They're really good.

They're excellent.

Should we order some sausages now?

We can talk while we eat. Sausages are easy.

They're perfect with beer!

Shall we order some?

No, I think the beer will be enough.

You're right.

I was so nervous on my way here.

But you're so cheerful and friendly.

- I feel completely at ease. - You were nervous?

Yes.

Don't be nervous.

Never be nervous.

Just relax.

Thank you.

I like you too.

Thank you so much.

What do you usually do?

When you're at home?

Me?

I like listening to music.

Sometimes I paint, and...

I exercise to lose weight too.

What kind of music?

Well...

Something emotional?

And authentic. That's the kind of music I like.

I see.

I like painting too.

But your mind has to be calm to paint.

So I don't get to do it much.

This is really good.

It's delicious.

Isn't it?

German beer really is different.

Definitely.

Do you like drinking?

Yes.

I don't drink that much anymore.

But I used to drink every day.

Really?

I was fine drinking every day.

At night, I'd have a glass or two of wine.

There's nothing to do at night.

Right.

After my daughter went to sleep,

I'd sit alone and slowly sip my wine.

Do you watch television?

I don't have a television.

Oh, no television...

My daughter keeps asking for one, but no.

Did you used to drink a lot?

Yes, I drank a lot.

If I hadn't had a child,

I might have drunk myself to death by now.

Drinking is very soothing.

Life is boring.

After running around all day,

I'd sit quietly in a corner and drink,

without hurting anyone.

I just wanted to fade away and disappear,

without anyone noticing.

I used to dream about that.

But after I had my child,

everything changed overnight.

I see.

Cheers!

Cheers!

What do you think of someone like me?

What do I think?

Honestly, I feel a little sorry for young people.

They're gloomy and dark. Very dark.

I'm much older,

and I've experienced many things...

I'm not saying that makes me better than anyone else,

but things should be different when you're young.

Yet you're all so gloomy and dark.

I think the world makes us this way.

Everywhere you look, there's competition.

It's bleak and discouraging.

We all feel like we've been left on our own.

Even among people who love each other.

You meet someone out of need.

You each look after yourselves and enjoy being together while you can.

People seem to call that love.

You're right.

Am I talking too much?

Not at all.

Do you have any advice for young people like me?

I just told you.

Right.

Just love yourself.

Love yourself more than anything else.

And don't think there's something you absolutely have to do.

There is no such thing.

First of all, love yourself more than anyone else.

Not your values, not your goals.

Truly love yourself.

Yes.

The reason I got divorced...

even though I had a child,

and didn't know how I would make money,

and knew everyone would blame me,

I started wondering...

Do I really love this person?

Or not?

And does he love me?

Or is he only staying because he's my child's father?

Do you know what he said to me?

He said everyone lives like this.

Everyone just lives like this.

Don't insist on being different.

But I don't want to live that way.

You only live once.

I'll only live with genuine love.

That's my choice.

With my daughter.

And my dog...

because I truly love them.

I'll truly love them for as long as I live.

I can do anything for them.

Things I've never done before.

I can endure things I've never endured before.

I won't accept false love in my life.

Yes.

Over here. Hello!

Yes.

The director is here.

Hello.

It's time to wrap up.

Oh, yes.

You don't need to rush.

It's all right.

I've taken up too much of your time.

Thank you for today.

Yes.

Wait... just a minute.

Goodbye. Take care.

Yes.

Thank you.

Thank you for today.

Thank you. Goodbye.

Did you come by subway?

Yes.

I'll walk you to the station.

No, it's fine. I'll walk by myself.

It's a long way. I can take you.

I'm really fine. Goodbye.

It must be nice recording this instead of writing it down.

Yes.

Actually, writing is better.

But this is so convenient. I end up recording everything.

Who was the man outside who showed me in?

Who? The director?

No, I know the director well. The man beside him.

The tall one with the dark complexion.

Ji-hoon?

He's a friend who's helping me out.

Is he your manager?

No, he's not my manager, though he'd like to be.

I'm still not sure.

When I started working again,

he wanted to give it a try too, so he came along with me.

This is his first film.

He's the nephew of a friend of mine. He runs a tteokbokki stall.

But he wants to try working in this field.

He left his wife to run the stall.

We're both from Busan.

So we're comfortable together.

His face is very tanned.

That's why I was curious.

He got a suntan.

He recently went to Hawaii with his wife.

So he got that tan in Hawaii?

He's very dark.

Everyone there thought he was a local.

I'm not surprised.

His eyes are very big too.

The beer is good, isn't it?

Yes, it's good.

The draught beer here is excellent.

German beer is something else.

Do you like drinking?

I'm trying to drink less these days, but of course I like it.

It's so satisfying.

But I've gained a lot of weight. If I drink, I can't lose it.

You look great now.

No, I don't.

Anyway, it's difficult.

It gets harder to lose weight as you get older.

I'm dieting for work.

Why did you decide to come back?

I was looking for work I could feel passionate about.

Something you're passionate about...

I really liked your acting.

Not at all.

I think something is missing.

So I started taking acting classes.

You're taking acting classes?

Yes. I've been twice so far.

Where are you studying?

I tried a studio with a good reputation.

And I think it's helping me.

There's someone there known for his teaching method.

How does he teach?

He has an unusual method.

It's all about the fundamentals.

And what's inside you.

He tries to draw those things out.

I'll have to see how it goes. I've only just started.

Taking acting classes...

can't be easy for you.

I don't feel embarrassed at all.

If there's something you don't know, you have to learn it.

If you don't, you're the only one who loses out.

And lately I've been wondering...

Was I always the studious type?

I realised I really enjoy studying things.

I have a logical side too.

Then you should have continued your education.

You said it yourself.

I realised too late.

If I hadn't inhaled coal gas as a child,

I'd be very intelligent now.

Coal gas?

Yes.

It's true. You don't believe me?

I believe you.

You have to believe me. It's true.

Yes.

But how did you come to choose this new film?

I liked the screenplay.

The director somehow knew he should send it to me.

It was excellent.

I called him as soon as I read it.

I told him the screenplay was excellent.

I see.

What did you think was so good about it?

There was nothing exaggerated in it.

More than anything, I hate unrealistic stories.

I could easily relate to the situation in the film.

It drew me in.

And I wanted to put myself in that situation.

That's how I felt.

I see.

What makes a good film?

If you had to...

A good film?

I'm not sure. It must be different for everyone.

What people consider good varies.

Their circumstances and tastes are different. That's true.

Even so,

do you have an ideal of what a good film is?

Me?

Well...

Even if I do, I don't think it would be very useful.

Right.

I don't think there's any need to argue about ideals.

In the end, people do what they want,

and watch what they want.

We all live very separate lives,

even though we live in a society.

There has never been an absolute truth.

There are only things people like or dislike.

Is that what you mean?

I'm not sure.

How could I know what's right or wrong?

A truth that applies to everyone...

How could I possibly understand that,

when I can't even control my own body?

You mentioned screenplays earlier.

What is it like reading scripts again?

Is it difficult?

When you read one, does the film form in your mind?

I can't say anything about the film. That's the director's concern.

But if the character is convincing,

and I want to place myself in that situation,

that's what matters to me.

Of course, the director matters too.

If I have even the slightest doubt about the director,

then it's better not to do it.

When I look at the films and dramas you've appeared in,

they're all very different.

Completely different.

Are they really?

But I think acting in all of them felt the same.

What did you think of our film?

I haven't asked you.

It's a good film.

I really liked it.

And it was wonderful to see you in a film again.

Thank you.

It's good to have you back.

Cheers!

Cheers!

I want to be a cool woman.

I'm going to be much cooler from now on.

A cool woman?

Yes.

- But you already are. - No.

I need to try much harder. I still have a long way to go.

What do you think makes a woman cool?

Someone who doesn't have to do things she doesn't want to do.

For true love, you have to do things you don't want to do.

Otherwise,

it seems childish.

True love?

Maybe because I'm an actress, there were always people to help me.

I started acting when I was very young.

So all my life, I've only done the things I wanted to do.

I never did anything I didn't want to do.

So I became lazy and never developed any patience or endurance.

When I was married, my husband did everything for me.

Now I want to change.

For my child's sake too.

I just think it's cool.

Enduring things.

This is my first time.

Before, enduring things was just...

If I disliked something even slightly, I'd avoid it.

I had no patience at all.

Now that I've gained a little patience,

I can see people more clearly.

Wow. These people have endured so much in their lives.

But despite carrying such a heavy burden every day, they retained their humanity.

It's extraordinary.

That's what I thought too.

If it weren't for art, I'd have no patience at all!

That's how I've lived.

Honestly, what I've done can hardly be called art.

Anyway...

I understand.

Come in.

Yes, Director.

Is everything all right?

We're out of time. Did you get to talk enough?

Yes, it was good.

It was wonderful.

I'm glad.

Lastly, by any chance,

do you have any advice for young people?

Something that might help them?

To love yourself?

To love yourself more than anything else?

I think that's the most important thing.

All right.

There's no need to rush.

You're the last one anyway.

I'm not in a hurry.

Actually, I want to speak with the director.

- Really? - Yes?

I interviewed him a few days ago, but since he's here today,

- I want to ask him a few more questions. - I see.

That's worked out well.

Do you want to talk here? This place is fine. I'll move over there.

No, it's all right.

We'll go to a restaurant and talk while we eat.

He said he hasn't eaten yet, so that's what we agreed.

If you haven't eaten either, you should join us.

No, you two go ahead.

I have a class, so I need to leave.

What kind of class?

The acting class I told you about.

- Is that today? - Yes, this afternoon.

All right, then. I'll be going.

Thank you.

It was so nice to meet you.

Likewise.

Truly.

In that case,

I'll get going.

- Ji-hoon is waiting outside. - Really?

And could you tell me

the names of the people I met today?

- Send me their numbers too. - Yes, of course.

I'll send them to you now.

You were great today.

Let's have dinner another time!

Call me whenever you like.

Okay, I definitely will.

Are you coming out now?

I'll stay a little longer. You go ahead.

Goodbye!

- Okay. - Goodbye.

See you.

- Are you smoking? - Yeah.

I've run out of liquid.

I don't think the director is eating with us.

- Did he go somewhere? - He has an interview.

An interview? Now?

He worked really hard today.

Usually the distributor handles this, but he did it all himself.

Right.

How was it for you? Was it good?

I'm just happy to be here for your interviews.

It feels like it's really beginning.

Is the film really going to be released?

That alone made me excited.

Yes, thank you.

Hello.

Hello. Did you call?

Yes.

Sorry, I was outside, so I didn't hear it.

I was thinking about our interview...

Yes.

I said that people aren't kind.

That human beings aren't kind creatures. Do you remember?

Yes. You said that.

I'm a little worried about it.

I think it could be misunderstood.

You think so?

Yes. If it isn't quoted accurately, people might misunderstand it.

So I'd rather you didn't include that part.

I understand.

I don't think it would be a problem.

And regarding my husband,

the part where I talked about my divorce.

Yes.

Please don't include that either.

Really?

I don't think it would be fair to him.

People don't need to know that.

So I'd like you to leave it out.

Hello?

You're not answering.

That's not it.

I think you may be worrying too much.

No. That's not it.

I don't want you to write it.

Please respect my wishes.

If that's how you feel...

And when you've finished the draft, I'd like to approve it

before it's published.

Really?

But I was planning to write it today or tomorrow.

That's fine.

You can email it to me.

I'll send you my email address.

All right.

Thank you. I appreciate today.

You're welcome.

And it was a very good interview.

Thank you.

You're welcome.

Thank you.

Yes. I'll send you my address.

Okay.

Goodbye.

You wrote a lot.

Was it difficult?

Yes, it was. I can't remember anything.

Even though it just happened.

Still, you wrote a lot.

That's because my handwriting is large.

I'm not sure it's accurate, the way I wrote it.

I managed to write down the words.

But it was very rough.

That's okay. It's fine.

I can't remember the questions. They asked me so many.

Really?

I can barely remember them.

- Thank you. - Thanks.

I wrote down a lot of what I said.

And I'm sure more will come back as I go through it.

Right.

Do I have to say exactly what I wrote?

No, you don't.

If you remember something else, you can just go with that.

Then how will she say her lines?

She'll follow your lead. She's done this many times.

Okay.

Then I'll give you about 30 minutes.

You don't have to memorise it word for word.

So I'll give you 30 minutes.

That's fine with me. Can you do it?

Yes. I'll do my best.

This is really interesting.

Writing down something that just happened to me is interesting.

Right.

What we can really develop in this acting class

is making our soil more fertile.

That's how I see it.

- Soil? - Yes, soil.

A kind of experiential training.

Experiential training...

Looking very honestly at your true self?

Then you're giving energy to your own unique colours.

Even when you're saying ordinary lines,

the colours within you reveal themselves.

I see.

But...

that takes real talent.

And...

some people naturally have it.

For them, it simply works, even without training.

It happens as soon as they begin acting.

Strange, isn't it?

- What do you think? - Sorry?

Shall we begin?

Sure. Let's do it.

You've had over an hour to memorise it.

- Yes. - All right...

Should we lower the blind?

- Yes. I'll do it. - No need. I'll do it.

- Really? - Thank you.

My eyesight isn't very good anymore.

Your eyesight?

It gets weaker as I get older...

What did you think of the film?

The film?

Yes. It was very good.

I really liked it.

Thank you.

Do you mean that?

Yes. You can believe me.

What did you like so much about it?

About that...

Can I tell you later?

I'm more used to writing down my thoughts.

I'm a little cautious.

I think everyone who writes is like that.

People who write?

Yes.

You're still young, but writing has already done that to you?

Yes, I suppose it has.

That's what happens when you write.

Recording this must be convenient. People used to write it all down.

Yes. It's better to take notes while you're listening.

But this is easier...

Writing it down is better, isn't it?

Still, recording means you don't miss anything,

and you can quote people accurately.

- Right. - Yes.

This is your first film in a long time.

Why did you decide to make an independent film?

Shouldn't I have made an independent film?

No, that's not what I meant.

This is your long-awaited comeback.

A lot of directors must have wanted to work with you.

- With me? - Yes.

There weren't any.

Well, I didn't announce that I was going back to work.

I just liked Director Bang's screenplay.

He came to my house and explained the film,

and he was very sincere.

I was moved by his pure passion for cinema.

I trusted him.

I don't trust people easily.

He's a very good director.

- Exactly. - Yes.

After such a long break,

why did you want to return to acting?

A lot of people were eager to see you again.

It's been a long time, hasn't it?

After I got divorced,

I felt I had to do something.

My child was old enough to spend time alone.

My child told me to go out and work.

Like a grown-up.

She told me to go earn money.

You were truly incredible.

Everyone in the country loved you.

That doesn't matter anymore.

I only live for now, for today.

From now on, I have to work well.

I'm sure you'll succeed.

But how did things end in divorce?

Was it difficult?

Every divorce is difficult.

What was difficult about it?

We'd better not talk about it.

He has a right to privacy too.

Let's just talk about the film. Wouldn't that be better?

Yes, but if there's anything you want to say...

I'm sure many people are curious.

I said no.

I'll answer any questions you have about the film.

What did you like about the film

when you first started working on it?

First of all, the screenplay was very good.

It wasn't a clichéd story full of dramatic twists.

When you watch films like that,

don't you feel they're looking down on you?

Yes, you're right.

I felt it was about me.

I'm not sure that was the director's intention.

Maybe he wanted to cast me, so he used me as a model...

I thought that too.

Really?

Still, don't write that. It might upset him.

I don't think he'd be upset by that.

It's quite likely that's what happened.

I thought the same thing while watching the film.

- Really? - Yes.

I see.

Still, don't write it. He never told me directly.

All right.

But I think you're worrying too much.

Interviews are for speaking honestly about how you feel.

That's what's good about them.

That's good for the writer.

But it's difficult for me.

Anyway, I hope you'll respect my wishes.

Can you do that?

All right.

Can we have a beer while we talk?

I don't drink while working. I'm sorry.

All right.

Is there anything you'd like

to say to young people like me?

To young people...

Just love yourself.

Love yourself.

Not just yourself, but your true self.

Trying to live by ideas others have put into your head,

feeling as though you're running away your entire life,

always, as though...

you're blaming yourself.

That isn't your true self.

Do you think it is?

Loving your true self...

And there's nothing you must do as though your life depends on it.

We all seem to make life so hard for ourselves.

We should simply relax

and live our lives with greater ease.

Whatever happens.

Yes, but relaxing like that isn't easy.

That...

That's the first step towards loving your true self.

Not blaming yourself.

Not constantly regretting things.

Not always being so afraid of the future.

Just...

allowing yourself to be freer.

I think that should come first.

And if you do that,

you can find yourself again.

How do you stop blaming yourself?

How do you stop being afraid of the future?

By seeing things as they are.

Even for just one second.

Seeing what is before you exactly as it is.

Having that experience.

If you can see things as they truly are, that experience,

the power it has,

makes you realise that everything we've lived until now was an illusion.

Even for just one second?

Yes.

Yes, it's true.

Why? Do you think that's too brief?

No, not at all.

But it's very difficult to attain even one second of it.

I experienced it.

On Mount Seorak,

I was alone one day and experienced it.

I think heaven helped me to experience it.

Really?

It only happened once, but...

I'll never lose that experience.

I live holding on to that moment.

What I saw then...

That experience was truly real,

and everything we call everyday life...

To be honest,

perhaps it's that...

we're mistaken,

and all of it may be an illusion.

I believe that.

I believe it.

That's the only time...

the only moment when I can feel

that I'm truly free.

The only time I experience perfect love

is in a moment like that.

Could I experience something like that too?

What do you think?

I haven't experienced it.

You will when you're ready.

You can learn about it through words.

But the experience is something you must attain yourself.

That experience is true power.

When you're ready,

when you truly need it, for one moment,

you throw yourself into it.

For those who aren't ready,

they're only words, without any power.

I wish I had a paradise like yours.

Paradise is only a word.

Actually...

Yes?

No. I...

I've said a lot of nonsense.

- Haven't I? - Not at all.

Really?

You seem very content.

Like someone walking the path of Tao.

You seem clear.

Thank you.

I wish I could have a beer.

Then shall we have just one?

One glass should be fine.

- Shall we? - Yes.

- Really? - Yes.

Oh, that's wonderful!

Good work.

That's the end.

I know.

You did really well.

Thank you.

- Thank you. - Good work.

Whenever you feel your acting has become too stiff,

try doing this exercise.

In my opinion, exercises like this

help you more each time you do them.

Yes.

Because I can do it whenever I want.

Right.

Shall we go have a beer?

- I'm really craving one! - Really? Then let's go.

The thing is...

my daughter has sent me a lot of messages.

She's asking when I'll be home.

So your daughter is waiting.

Even if I leave now, I'll still be in trouble.

Then you'd better go.

A boy or a girl?

A girl.

So you have a daughter...

I should get back to her.

Then let's go.

Where's your car?

In the car park.