Lingering (2020), a South Korean psychological horror film directed by Yoon Joo-Young, is a chilling exploration of grief, guilt, and the terrifying ghosts of the past. With its eerie atmosphere and intense emotional depth, the film delivers a unique blend of supernatural horror and psychological thriller. Lingering captivates its audience with its spine-tingling tension, dark secrets, and the struggle to escape the shadows of one’s own trauma.The story revolves around Ji-Na (played by actress Jeon Yeo-Been), a young woman who is deeply affected by the recent death of her mother. In search of peace and a fresh start, she moves into a secluded, old guesthouse called the White Lotus Guesthouse, located in a quiet coastal town. This location, far from the busy city life, seems like the perfect place to heal from her emotional scars and escape the memories that haunt her.However, Ji-Na’s hope for a peaceful retreat is shattered as she begins to experience increasingly disturbing and supernatural events within the guesthouse. Mysterious apparitions, eerie sounds, and unsettling visions plague her, pushing her to the brink of madness. As the supernatural forces intensify, Ji-Na begins to uncover the horrifying truth behind the guesthouse’s dark past.The guesthouse is revealed to be haunted by the spirit of a young girl who was tragically killed years ago under mysterious circumstances. This vengeful spirit has been trapped in the house, and its presence only grows stronger as it draws Ji-Na closer to its grasp. In an attempt to escape this nightmare, Ji-Na must confront her own buried trauma and unravel the ghost’s connection to her past.
At its core, Lingering explores the psychological and emotional toll of trauma. Ji-Na’s experiences in the guesthouse mirror her internal struggle with grief and unresolved guilt from her past. The supernatural events she encounters are not only manifestations of the spirit haunting the house but also reflections of the emotional weight she carries within herself.The film emphasizes how unaddressed pain and the refusal to confront one’s past can manifest in the form of haunting apparitions and intense psychological distress. Ji-Na’s journey is one of both survival and self-discovery, as she learns that the only way to escape the supernatural horrors around her is by confronting the ghosts of her own memories.Additionally, Lingering portrays the theme of redemption. Ji-Na must find a way to forgive herself, face the painful realities of her past, and ultimately release the spirit that torments her. The film’s emphasis on emotional healing is as strong as its supernatural elements, giving the story a unique depth that resonates beyond the typical horror genre.What sets Lingering apart from traditional horror films is its masterful use of atmosphere and tension. The guesthouse, isolated by the sea and shrouded in fog, creates a claustrophobic setting that adds to the film’s eerie and unsettling mood. The director builds tension with slow, deliberate pacing, allowing suspense to grow as Ji-Na unravels the mysteries of the house.The supernatural occurrences in the guesthouse are subtle at first, slowly escalating to more terrifying and visceral experiences. The film is careful not to rely solely on jump scares but instead uses a chilling atmosphere and disturbing imagery to create a constant sense of unease. This psychological horror element amplifies the sense of dread, as the audience feels the weight of Ji-Na’s trauma alongside the supernatural forces closing in on her.
The film also incorporates haunting sound design, with eerie noises and the unsettling silence that precedes each supernatural encounter. These auditory cues build an immersive experience that keeps viewers on edge throughout.Jeon Yeo-Been’s portrayal of Ji-Na is one of the highlights of Lingering. She brings a raw emotional depth to the character, capturing Ji-Na’s vulnerability, pain, and gradual unraveling as the ghostly occurrences escalate. Jeon’s performance allows the audience to connect with Ji-Na on a deeply emotional level, making her journey of redemption and self-discovery all the more compelling.The supporting cast also plays a key role in adding layers to the film, especially as they help Ji-Na unravel the mystery of the ghost. Their interactions and reactions provide insight into the emotional and psychological struggles Ji-Na faces as she attempts to cope with the terrifying events unfolding around her.Lingering is a supernatural horror film that stands out for its emotional depth and exploration of trauma and redemption. While the ghostly hauntings are chilling and suspenseful, it is the emotional journey of the protagonist that truly drives the story. Ji-Na’s internal struggle is just as compelling as the external supernatural threat, creating a horror film that resonates on a personal level.For those who enjoy psychological horror films that mix the supernatural with deep emotional storytelling, Lingering is a must-watch. Its unique approach to blending horror with themes of healing and self-acceptance makes it a standout film in the genre. Prepare to be captivated by a story that is as haunting as it is emotionally moving.
