supple direction masterfully controlled. cinematography is straightforward and unpretentious despite being b&w. A throwback to 60s and 70s Europeans.

While there is no doubt Hong Sang-soo's latest is beautiful, it failed to grab me and left me bored at times. Filmed in black and white, 'Hotel by the River' is on the nose and the backdrop for a self-fulfilling story of a poet living for free in a hotel who wants to see his two sons because he thinks he's going to die despite not being ill in any way. Along the way he meets a couple of women and boredom ensues. The plot is just too thin, despite really good acting and moments for each to shine. This one left me empty. 6.1/10

Vapid. Not even worth the time to write a thoughtful review.

Great cinematography and direction except at some places when the camera zooms unnecessarily. I loved the snow in black and white, it created good contrast between the people with black dress and the surroundings. The movie is so realistic and beautiful.