Several Questions That Make Us Happy

"Several Questions That Make Us Happy" is a poignant omnibus film that delves into the complexities of modern society, tackling universal themes of loneliness, love, trust, and self-discovery. Through six interconnected stories, the film poses profound questions about the human condition, encouraging viewers to reflect on their own experiences and the pursuit of happiness. Act I introduces our protagonist, Joo-hwan, a successful businessman struggling to find meaning in his life. Despite his external appearance of success, he feels disconnected from others and himself. His marriage to his wife, Yoon-ju, is troubled, and they often find themselves at a loss for words to bridge the gap between them. As Joo-hwan navigates the challenges of modern life, he begins to realize the value of genuine connections and meaningful relationships. This poignant exploration sets the tone for the rest of the film, inviting viewers to consider the importance of human relationships in creating happiness. Act II shifts focus to Yoon-ju, who is grappling with her own feelings of loneliness despite being surrounded by people. Her relationships with others feel superficial, and she longs for meaningful interactions. A chance encounter with a stranger sparks a deep conversation, and for the first time, she begins to confront the void within herself. Through Yoon-ju's character, the film highlights the difficulties of forming genuine connections in a world where people are increasingly disconnected from one another. The third act follows an elderly couple, Soon-bok and Hwal-yong, who are nearing the end of their lives together. Despite their many years of marriage, they continue to struggle with the complexities of human relationships. They confide in their daughter, Soo-jin, about their own feelings of loneliness, and she, in turn, shares her own struggles. This tender portrayal underscores the ways in which families and loved ones can serve as a support system, fostering a sense of belonging and connection. Act IV presents a story of a young couple, Hyeon-su and Sun-young, who have found themselves in a seemingly perfect relationship. However, as they embark on a journey together, the cracks in their relationship begin to appear. They find themselves struggling to communicate effectively, and the tension between them grows. This relatable narrative captures the everyday challenges of romantic relationships, where couples must navigate the ebb and flow of love, trust, and communication. Act V shifts focus to a woman, Yoon-ok, who has experienced a profound loss in her life. Despite her best efforts, she finds herself struggling to cope with the emotional aftermath. Through a series of conversations with her therapist, we gain insight into the complexities of human emotion and the importance of acknowledging vulnerability. Yoon-ok's journey serves as a reminder that happiness is not solely the result of external circumstances but also the ability to confront and heal from life's challenges. In the final act, we are introduced to Jung-seon, a charismatic and enigmatic figure who has captivated the hearts of all those around her. As her story unfolds, it becomes clear that her charisma has been a facade for a life of quiet desperation. Through her character, the film highlights the perils of superficial appearances and the value of genuine, heartfelt connections. Jung-seon's tragic narrative serves as a poignant reminder that happiness is not something that can be achieved through external validation but rather by embracing our true selves and forming meaningful relationships with others. As the six stories come together, "Several Questions That Make Us Happy" presents a nuanced exploration of the human condition. The film challenges viewers to reflect on their own experiences, questioning why we often find ourselves unhappy and how we might cultivate happiness. By delving into the complexities of human relationships, the film reminds us that happiness is not a solitary pursuit but rather a communal one, requiring genuine connections, empathy, and understanding. Ultimately, "Several Questions That Make Us Happy" is a testament to the power of storytelling, offering a profound exploration of the human condition and the enduring quest for happiness.