APM - Asian Project Market

2023 Project

Logline

Yujin tries to be a necessary presence for her depressed and ill mother. Dongwoo loves her but cannot understand her choice. The two of them strive to find freedom from their families and from each other.

Synopsis

Yujin, a 19-year-old living in the United States with her father, decides to return to Korea to support her depressed mother, Seonjeong. As a high school teacher, Seonjeong feels responsible for her daughter′s return and decides to go back to work. While on a bus, Yujin comes to the rescue of Dongwoo, who accidentally falls from a bridge. Dongwoo, who had grown cynical due to his underprivileged circumstance, finds himself falling in love with Yujin, and struggles to overcome his self-consciousness about his poverty.
Seven years later in Seoul, Dongwoo now works at a small publishing company and pursues his passion for writing. Meanwhile, Yujin works at a store with a close friend and enjoys playing in a band. However, when Seonjeong is diagnosed with cancer, Yujin makes the decision to be by her mother′s side. Dongwoo questions Yujin about her inclination to run away from her own life, but unfortunately, she leaves.
Four years later, Dongwoo is chosen as a local resident writer and returns to the small town. He reconnects with old friends and learns about Yujin′s story of the past four years. In a writing class led by Dongwoo, Yujin, who has lived after her mother′s death, appears. Yujin shares a four-line biography about her mother and herself. As Dongwoo bears witness to Yujin′s acceptance of the world, he is inspired to write a biography that reflects on the collective experiences and challenges of everyone′s lives.

Director's Statement

As we enter adulthood and journey through life′s ups and downs, this self-reflective exploration leads us to question our own identities and the forces that shape us. Here, we meet a mother burdened by a sense of unfulfillment, contemplating giving up on life. However, her daughter remains resolute in her determination to protect her. Alongside, there is the daughter′s boyfriend, burdened by a belief in his misfortune. Together, they embark on a quest to discover the true essence of living authentically. By navigating their origins and the ever-changing currents of time, they learn what truly deserves to be protected. This film yearns for characters who can provide solace in moments of self-doubt and inner conflict, resonating deeply with viewers.

Producer's Statement

Friends of This Life delves into the complexity of human existence by following the lives of young adults in their twenties who dare to dream and take unconventional paths challenging societal norms. We also witness the journey of an intellectual woman who has navigated the roles of a professional, wife, and mother. Our focus is to provide the director with much creative freedom while maintaining a poignant narrative. We seek production support to cast talented actors who authentically represent each generation and showcase the talents of the entire cast and crew. The film will encourage viewers to reflect on the dynamic relationship between the individuals and the times they live in, filled with the prospect of life and cinematic imagination.

Director's Profile

Producer's Profile