Sleep (2023) is a South Korean black comedy horror mystery thriller directed by Jason Yu, marking his feature debut. The film stars Jung Yu-mi and Lee Sun-kyun, and it premiered in the Critics’ Week section at the 2023 Cannes Film Festival before its theatrical release in South Korea on September 6, 2023.
Plot Overview
Newlyweds Hyeon-soo (Lee Sun-kyun) and Soo-jin (Jung Yu-mi) are settling into their life together when Soo-jin notices something disturbing—her husband begins sleepwalking in ways that seem completely unlike him. As his nighttime behavior grows increasingly erratic and dangerous, Soo-jin becomes terrified that he might harm their newborn child.
Desperate for answers, the couple seeks medical help, but the situation spirals further into psychological horror. As night falls, Soo-jin’s fear intensifies, leading to a chilling exploration of sleep disorders, paranoia, and the unsettling boundaries between dreams and reality.
Why It Stands Out
- Psychological Horror: The film taps into the fear of losing control over one’s own mind and body.
- Dark Humor: While primarily a thriller, Sleep incorporates moments of black comedy to heighten the tension.
- Strong Performances: Jung Yu-mi and Lee Sun-kyun deliver gripping portrayals of a couple unraveling under fear and uncertainty.
Reception
Sleep was praised for its tense atmosphere and unique approach to horror, earning $11.1 million at the box office. It was one of Lee Sun-kyun’s final film appearances before his passing in December 2023, adding an emotional weight to its legacy.
