How Many Meals Left? Discover the Emotional Depth of ‘Number One’ Starring Choi Woo-shik

Acclaimed director Kim Tae-yong, a Sejong University Film Arts alum, is set to captivate audiences with his latest cinematic venture, “Number One.”

Based on Japanese author Uwano Sora’s poignant novel “328 Meals Left with Mom,” the film weaves a heart-wrenching tale of a son, Hamin, who discovers a mysterious countdown tied to his mother’s home-cooked meals. As the number dwindles with each shared meal, Hamin grapples with the haunting realization that when it hits zero, his beloved mother, Eun-sil, will pass away.

The project has generated significant buzz, reuniting the dynamic mother-son duo of Choi Woo-shik and Jang Hye-jin, whose chemistry electrified screens in the Oscar-winning sensation “Parasite.”

Choi Woo-shik delivers a nuanced performance as Hamin, masterfully conveying the internal turmoil of a son burdened with the knowledge of his mother’s ticking clock and his desperate quest to alter fate.

Jang Hye-jin brings depth and gravitas to her portrayal of Eun-sil, showcasing an unwavering maternal love that resonates despite the emotional chasm between mother and son. Rising star Gong Seung-yeon rounds out the stellar cast as Ryeo-eun, adding layers of complexity to the narrative.

At its core, “Number One” poses a universal question that cuts straight to the heart: “How many more chances do you have to savor your mother’s home cooking?” This poignant inquiry serves as a catalyst for viewers to reassess the value of everyday moments and familial bonds. By ingeniously blending the comforting familiarity of home-cooked meals with a fantastical “countdown to mortality” premise, the film crafts a unique viewing experience that sets it apart from conventional family dramas, delivering both edge-of-your-seat tension and profound emotional resonance.

At the helm of this ambitious project is Kim Tae-yong, a visionary filmmaker renowned for his meticulous emotional storytelling and innovative directorial approach, as evidenced in critically acclaimed works like “The Teacher” and “Giant.” Kim’s talent has been widely recognized, earning him prestigious accolades including the Best New Director trophy at the 36th Blue Dragon Film Awards, the Korean Film Critics Association’s Best New Director honor, and the Citizen Critics’ Award at the 19th Busan International Film Festival. His directorial prowess was evident even during his college years at Sejong University, where he clinched the top prize in the 10th Mise-en-scène Short Film Festival’s Non-Standard category and secured the grand prize at the Korea College Film Festival, marking him as a wunderkind in the industry.