Captivating Chaos: A Deep Dive into the Film ‘Noise’ – Review by Eye For Film

Noise is more than just sound; it has a profound effect on our minds. It can confuse, annoy, and obscure communication. In film, using noise effectively is an art. Many filmmakers focus on stories and visuals, but few grasp the nuances of sound design. A film that dives into the distress caused by noise asks viewers to endure that discomfort, creating a fine line between engagement and frustration.

In the upcoming movie from director Kim Soo-jin at Fantasia 2025, noise becomes a character itself. The opening scenes introduce us to Ju-hee, played by Han Soo-a, who is desperately trying to soundproof her apartment. Her frantic actions convey the toll noise takes on her life—she can’t relax nor sleep. This early setup allows the audience to understand her struggle without the need for heavy exposition later.

Most of the story follows Ju-hee’s sister, Ju-young (Lee Sun-bin). They lived together in the 604 Samil Apartments, supporting each other after a tragic accident killed their parents. Ju-young lost her hearing and Ju-hee was left with a limp. They had their ups and downs but grew apart after Ju-young moved into a work dormitory. When Ju-hee goes missing, Ju-young takes it upon herself to find her, despite police indifference. She teams up with Ki-hoon (Kim Min-seok), who claims to be Ju-hee’s boyfriend. They face resistance from the homeowners’ association, which fears damage to their building’s reputation as renovations are pending.

As the plot unfolds, the building itself reveals multiple issues. Trash accumulates in the basement, and noise levels drive residents to madness. Sleep deprivation can lead to serious mental problems, intensifying the tensions within the community. Ju-young finds herself threatened by residents blaming her for the noise, alluding to a darker past associated with the building.

This setting mirrors real-life issues in urban South Korea, where living conditions can be grim. Many settle for noisy, cramped spaces due to high demand, with buildings often made of concrete and large glass panes which amplify sound. Kim’s film taps into this familiar struggle while weaving in elements of folklore to create an eerie atmosphere.

Ju-young’s own battle with noise is complicated by her deafness. A modern hearing aid lets her adjust sound levels, but sudden loud noises catch her off-guard. The film’s sound designer skillfully balances silence and noise, capturing Ju-young’s vulnerability. A touching moment comes when she signs with a Deaf child, showcasing a rare connection that highlights her struggle to fit in.

The thriller unfolds with a steady build-up of tension, skillfully mixing feelings of dread with emotional moments. Although there are minor plot inconsistencies, the story remains gripping, illustrating the desperation among the characters. The building, almost a character itself, seems to scream against the noise that surrounds it. While some sounds may unsettle viewers, the overall experience is rewarding and impactful.

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