Is it any wonder that sleep has long been a topic for horror?
Since, sleep has found its way into nearly every subgenre.
In films likeThe Amityville Horror, sleeping and waking states give way to fears about domestic violence.
Image via Lotte Entertainment
In 2023sSleep, directorJason Yupushes the boundaries of these themes and vulnerability itself.
So in love, in fact, that with less charismatic actors, it might be a little insufferable.
Hyeon-soo, a booked but less than successful actor, is a heavy sleeper prone to snoring.
But Hyeon-soos sleep episodes worsen, just as Soo-jin enters late-term pregnancy.
Hyeon-soo doesnt take on the movements typical of K-horror.
His night escapades are in direct contrast to his daily persona.
He is doting, loving, and light-hearted with Soo-jin.
The juxtaposition makes theescalation of his sleep disorder to dangerous behaviors even scarier.
Soo-jin wouldnt be losing an insufferable grouch or a father already phoning it in.
Shed be losing her best friend.
A visit from a psychic medium uncovers evidence of the supernatural, but thats not the films main focus.
And it does so without painting either character as hysterical.
When Hyeon-soos sleepwalking becomes dangerous, Soo-jin helps him set up a doctors appointment.
Shes with him every step of the way, even when her mother offers support.
When Hyeon-soo wants to sleep in another apartment, Soo-jin invokes their family motto, Together we can overcome.
Every ominous detail of the narrative is anchored by love.
What is clear is how meaningful the support of our loved ones becomes.
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