Haepi nyu ieo (2021)

Imagine the pre-New Year hustle and bustle, when the air is filled not only with the anticipation of the holiday but also with the anticipation of change, hopes, and, of course, love. It is into such an atmosphere that the 2021 film "Happy New Year," directed by Kwak Jae-yong, immerses us. This melodrama offers the viewer not one, but a whole kaleidoscope of romantic stories, intertwining into a single, emotionally rich canvas. Under the keen eye of Kwak Jae-yong, known for his subtle approach to human feelings, we observe the search for happiness and mutual understanding on the eve of the most magical holiday.

Plot

At the heart of the film lies the concept of multifaceted love, told through the prism of several couples' lives. Instead of one central narrative line, "Happy New Year" unfolds before us a series of autonomous but intersecting romantic plots. This allows for the exploration of various stages and facets of human relationships: from nascent sympathy and first love to long-extinguished feelings that can flare up with new force, or, conversely, unrequited love finding an unexpected outlet. The film becomes an exploration of how the destinies of people, seemingly unrelated to each other, can unexpectedly converge into a single knot, especially during a period when it is customary to take stock and make wishes.

Why You Should Watch It

• Multifaceted emotionality: As a true melodrama, the film offers a wide range of feelings – from joy to gentle sadness, allowing the viewer to deeply empathize with the characters.
• Star-studded cast: The film features an impressive cast, including Song Kyung-ah, Lee Dong-wook, Lee Jin-wook, Joo Ye-rin, Park Sung-il, Lee Kwang-soo, Kang Ha-neul, Lee Hye-young, Lim Yoon-ah, and Kim Young-kwang. Each of them brings unique charm and depth to their roles.
• Kwak Jae-yong's Direction: The director, whose name has become synonymous with sensitive and sincere romantic stories, masterfully builds the narrative, paying attention to the smallest details and emotional nuances.
• Intertwining Fates: The concept of multiple intersecting stories provides dynamism and unpredictability, maintaining interest in each of the characters.
• Atmosphere of Holiday and Hope: The film's title and its theme promise a story imbued with the spirit of new beginnings, optimism, and faith in love.

Themes

The central theme of "Happy New Year" is, undoubtedly, love in all its manifestations: search, loss, discovery, acceptance, and, especially importantly, hope for new relationships. The film also touches on themes of human connection and interdependence, showing how chance encounters can change the course of life. An important component is also the idea of renewal, rethinking the past, and moving forward, which is especially relevant in the context of New Year's holidays. This is a story about how every person, despite their individual complexities and aspirations, seeks their piece of happiness and warmth.

Editor's Opinion

"Happy New Year" is exactly the kind of film that is perfect for a cozy evening. Its charm lies not so much in an intriguing plot as in the sincerity and warmth with which the characters' stories are presented. This is a film that does not claim to revolutionize the genre but masterfully uses its best features: deep emotions, human dramas, and, of course, faith in a good outcome. Thanks to the talented director and brilliant ensemble cast, Kwak Jae-yong's film becomes a wonderful way to remind oneself of the importance of love, friendship, and new beginnings. It leaves a pleasant aftertaste and a feeling of gentle sadness, but with an indispensable emphasis on hope.