“I doubt that it would’ve made its way into English theatres if there wasn’t this demand for Asian films”: Jason Yu on Sleep

Diving into the world of sleep disorders, Jason Yu’s feature debut is a fantastic horror that mixes science and the supernatural. Starring powerhouse actors Lee Sun-kyun and Jung Yu-mi, the two play a very devoted couple whose mantra hinges on overcoming the hardships of life together. As they await the birth of their child, Hyeon-soo (Sun-kyun) begins to sleepwalk, causing all sorts of trouble – from loud noises in the middle of the night that bother their downstairs neighbour, to their fridge being ravaged. While Hyeon-soo seeks the help of doctors and professionals, his wife Soo-jin (Yu-mi), fearing for her and her child’s safety, looks into alternative and more supernatural causes for his sudden behaviour. This divide in their methods of tackling the problem tests the strength of their resolve and love for each other.

Yu has worked with Academy Award-winning director Bong Joon-ho – the man behind the social commentary film Parasite that made waves across South Korea and international waters alike. He worked as the assistant director in Joon-ho’s 2017 film Okja, starring Tilda Swinton, Jake Gyllenhaal and Ahn Seo-hyun. Having never gone to film school, Yu attributes everything he has learned in filmmaking to observing the renowned director. He is especially grateful for Joon-ho’s encouragement, which helped Yu build his confidence.

The Upcoming caught up with Yu in an interview about Sleep, discussing his initial inspirations for the film’s concept, his research into sleep disorders, casting actors Soon-kyun and Yu-mi for his debut feature, and the rise of Asian filmmaking in mainstream and international platforms.

Mae Trumata

Sleep is released in select cinemas on 11^th July 2024.

Watch the trailer for Sleep here: