S.Korean thriller 'Following' to premiere in May 15

SEOUL April 30 (Yonhap) — Social networking services (SNS) have become competitive platforms where individuals exhibit themselves to garner attention while observing others.

The more provocatively one presents oneself, the more followers and subscribers they accumulate. However, genuine human connections become increasingly elusive, overshadowed by mere numbers of likes and meaningless comments.

Directed by Kim Se-hwi, the film “Following” constructs a thriller narrative on the ecosystem of SNS, focusing on self-display and observation of others rather than genuine human interactions.

The protagonist, Jung Tae (played by Byun Yo-han), appears as a successful real estate agent. However, he is afflicted with voyeurism, peeking into others’ lives both online and offline.

S.Korean thriller ‘Following’ to premiere in May 15

▲This photo provided by Moving pictures company show scene from ‘Following.’ (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE)(Yonhap)

Managing keys for clients, he secretly enters their homes while they’re away. His act of stealing insignificant items and preserving their photos as mementos illustrates his pathological psyche.

Jung Tae inadvertently begins spying on SNS influencer Sora (played by Shin Hae-sun). Eventually obtaining Sora’s access card, Jung Tae trespasses into his home, only to discover Sora murdered, leaving him shocked.

Caught between committing crimes by intruding into others’ homes and witnessing a murder scene, Jung Tae grapples with the dilemma of reporting it to the police.

Jung Tae epitomizes the modern individual deteriorating due to the centrality of SNS in their lives.

Similarly, Sora’s life, while portraying himself as a vegan online, is filled with falsehoods and hypocrisy as he consumes sausages in convenience stores.

Sora’s statement, “I am the most pitiful,” encapsulates his self-pity and narcissism. Like Jung Tae, addicted to observing others, Sora remains unable to enter the realm of genuine human interaction.

Although the character setups and storyline are somewhat extreme, the film skillfully intertwines online and offline worlds to create a suspenseful narrative.

Jung Tae, who once stole glimpses into others’ privacy, vaguely senses someone stealing glimpses of him from somewhere. His process of approaching the identity of the observer adds tension to the plot.

Exploring the intricate dynamics between popular means of communication and criminal activities, this film evokes reminiscence of David Fincher’s thriller “Gone Girl” (2014).

Byun Yo-han, who portrayed a crime-fighting hero in “Voice” (2021), vividly depicts an ordinary individual who ventures into crime without remorse, then struggles in its aftermath.

Shin Hae-sun, previously acclaimed for thrillers like “Don’t Buy the Seller” and action film “Brave Citizen” in 2021, captivates as Sora, an enigmatic figure gradually unveiling layers of mystery.

As Jung Tae takes the lead in unraveling the truth behind the incident, Lee El plays the role of detective Yeong-joo, providing a perspective that orbits around the central narrative.

“Following” marks director Kim’s debut, following his previous works like “Untouchable Lawmen” (2015), “Operation Chromite” (2016), and “Stand by Me” (2018), showcasing his knack for adaptation.

Director Kim stated, “I wanted to depict the inherent human desires of wanting to know what others don’t and seeking attention from others.”

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