A Traveler’s Needs offers a captivating glimpse into the life of Iris, a mysterious Frenchwoman who finds herself adrift in Seoul. Played with understated brilliance by the iconic Isabelle Huppert, Iris is an enigmatic figure who seemingly appears out of nowhere, with no clear past or future. Struggling financially and with no clear plan, she begins to teach French to two Korean women, despite her own precarious situation. Through these lessons, unexpected bonds are formed, and Iris carves out a small place for herself in a world where she feels profoundly disconnected.The film explores Iris’s eccentricities—she walks barefoot, often seeks out quiet moments on rocks, and attempts to experience life in a non-verbal way, as if searching for meaning beyond language. Her existence remains a constant challenge, but she finds solace in simple comforts like makgeolli, a traditional Korean alcoholic drink, which seems to offer her a brief reprieve from her struggles.Director Hong Sangsoo masterfully weaves his minimalist approach into this deeply reflective narrative, turning everyday encounters into significant moments of emotional complexity. His trademark subtlety is on full display, allowing the audience to be drawn into Iris’s world through small but meaningful interactions. The film is not about grand revelations but rather the quiet, introspective moments that shape a person’s journey.Huppert’s portrayal of Iris is both haunting and delicate, imbuing the character with a sense of quiet resilience and vulnerability. The film beautifully captures her attempt to navigate a foreign city while grappling with her own inner turmoil.With its evocative imagery, nuanced performances, and a story steeped in ambiguity, A Traveler’s Needs that won the Berlinale’s Silver Bear Grand Jury Prize, is a meditation on loneliness, human connection, and the search for meaning in the most unexpected places. Hong Sang-soo’s direction paired with Huppert’s enigmatic performance creates a cinematic experience that is both deeply engaging and thought-provoking.Raman Chawla