Daytime Drinking is a 2008 South Korean independent film directed by Noh Young-seok. The movie follows the story of Hyuk-jin, a young man who decides to take a break from his mundane life in Seoul and visit his college friends in the city of Pyeongchang. The film opens with Hyuk-jin being dumped by his girlfriend. In an attempt to get over her, he decides to visit his college friends, who are on vacation in Pyeongchang. Instead of arriving at his destination, Hyuk-jin accidentally ends up in a small town nearby. With no means of transportation and nowhere to stay, he decides to spend the night at a local guesthouse.
There, he meets a group of locals who invite him to go drinking with them. Little does he know, this experience will turn into a journey of self-discovery, as he explores the town and meets various individuals along the way.
As the title suggests, much of the story revolves around drinking. Hyuk-jin indulges in alcohol, sometimes to the point of excess, and the effects of this can be seen throughout the film. It serves as a metaphor for his character's journey and his search for meaning in his life.
The movie has a slow, deliberate pace that allows for the exploration of the town and the characters that inhabit it. The performances are natural, and the cinematography captures the beauty of the small town and surrounding countryside.
One of the standout elements of the film is the sense of humor that runs throughout. The situations and conversations that occur between the characters are often absurd and amusing, adding to the film's charm.
While the film may not appeal to everyone's taste, it is a well-crafted piece of cinema that explores the themes of loneliness, self-discovery, and the search for meaning in a subtle and engaging manner.
Overall, Daytime Drinking is a unique and enjoyable film that showcases the talents of director Noh Young-seok and the cast of actors. It is a testament to the power of independent cinema and a must-see for anyone interested in exploring Korean cinema beyond its more mainstream offerings.