The word archaeology is a combination of two Greek words, archaios (ancient) and logos (thought or study). The film Archaeology of Love recalls archaeologist Youngsil’s past, including times of heartbreak, disillusionment, and humiliation. This is as dull and tedious as excavating artifacts under a burning sun, but it allows Youngsil to discover herself buried under twisted relationships and see her whole self, so it is vital work indeed.
Youngsil reflects on a boring eight-year relationship with Insik, who says he likes Youngsil because she seems stable, though he constantly feels insecure and doubts her. Insik brands Youngsil as an easy woman with the oblique label “free spirit.” He wants her instead to be an accessary to his world, not an independent person. Other men around Youngsil try to teach her, and through their words they manage to correct even her emotions.
The film does not scold or rationalize Youngsil for having stayed with Insik. Instead, it shows her starting to get a sense of herself and speak from her heart. She realizes how to protect herself and takes the first awkward but firm step. The film allows viewers to cheer and celebrate this woman’s life. It’s a journey deep inside the character as well as her emergence after careful consideration of her pain and her true self. Its running time of 168 minutes moves swiftly thanks to the film’s tight flow. [Programmer KIM Hyunmin]