Edited by Hwang Hong Sun
Translated by Yu Jin Kim
A Korean remake of the 2009 Taiwanese movie Hear Me, Hear Me: Our Summer premiered at this year’s Busan International Film Festival and has recently opened in theaters. Unlike many remakes that try to put their own spin on the original, Hear Me: Our Summer stays true to capturing the emotional depth and charm of the original movie.
The story follows Yong Jun (played by Hong Kyung), a young man drifting through life without clear goals. His life takes a turn when he starts working as a lunchbox deliveryman and meets Yeoreum (played by Roh Yoon Seo), a hardworking young woman supporting her younger sister Gaeul (Kim Min Ju) who dreams of becoming a professional swimmer.
The two sisters communicate through sign language, and Yong Jun bonds with Yeoreum by using it as well. Rather than delving into backstories or explaining how Yong Jun learned sign language, the film focuses on a youthful, refreshing atmosphere that enhances its overall tone.
Most of the dialogue unfolds in sign language, and the initial silence might feel almost too quiet, even a bit unsettling. But this quietness draws viewers in, encouraging them to focus closely on what’s happening visually, creating a mysterious, almost ethereal tone that suggests there’s more to be “heard” in their silent exchanges. Sign language relies heavily on facial expressions to convey both meaning and emotion, and such aspect of it helps viewers naturally immerse themselves in their conversations. Yong Jun and Yeoreum’s intense focus on each other—striving to catch every sign—flows seamlessly with the film’s atmosphere. It’s clear that the actors put in a genuine effort to learn sign language, and above all, Hong Kyung, Roh Yoon Seo, and Kim Min Ju captivate with their natural performances, bringing vibrant, youthful energy to their roles.
Hear Me: Our Summer beautifully captures the essence of summer through blooming emotions and the characters’ personal growth. The interactions between Yong Jun and Yeoreum are especially delightful as they gradually grow closer while sharing parts of their daily lives. The story subtly portrays their journey from being passive in their aspirations to actively discovering and pursuing their dreams.
However, the film’s lack of dramatic events may make the storyline feel somewhat dull and plain, and the twist in the latter part of the movie might seem abrupt. Despite this, focusing on the heartfelt story crafted by these kind-hearted characters leaves viewers with a pleasant, lingering feeling after watching. The film’s message resonates even more in today’s world, where the phrase “I love you” is so commonly used that its meaning can feel diluted. Our Summer shows how the same words feel even more heartfelt when expressed in sign language with a deeper focus on the other person. (7/10)
>> Hong Kyung Gushes About Roh Yoon Seo and Their Chemistry in ‘Hear Me: Our Summer’
Editor Hwang Hong Sun: A Korean movie buff who wishes that the warm messages in good works will warm up this world at least by one degree Fahrenheit.
