Sleep is a 2023 South Korean black comedy horror mystery thriller film that marks the feature debut of writer and director Jason Yu.
The film stars Jung Yu-mi and Lee Sun-kyun as a newlywed couple, Soo-jin and Hyeon-soo. The story revolves around Soo-jin, who becomes increasingly alarmed when she discovers that her husband is sleepwalking and exhibiting strange behaviors that threaten their newborn baby.
The film premiered at the 2023 Cannes Film Festival on May 21, 2023, as part of the Critics' Week section and was released in South Korea on September 6, 2023. It has been well-received, grossing approximately $10.7 million at the local box office. Critics have praised its unique premise and execution, highlighting the tension and horror derived from the sleepwalking theme.
Jason Yu drew inspiration from his own experiences and observations about marriage while writing the film. He aimed to explore the complexities of married life through the lens of horror, particularly focusing on the vulnerability that sleep represents. The film's cinematography was handled by Tae-soo Kim, and it has been noted for its engaging narrative and performances, particularly from the lead actors.
As of now, Sleep is still making its rounds in film festivals, and while it has garnered interest for international releases, specific dates for wider availability outside South Korea have yet to be announced.