Claire's Camera

As Jeon Man-hee navigates the bustling Cannes Film Festival on behalf of a Korean film distribution company, she's blindsided by her boss Nam Yang-hye's sudden loss of trust, leaving her job hanging precariously in the balance. The reason behind this drastic turn of events is left unspoken, but it soon becomes clear that Man-hee's professional reputation has been irreparably tarnished due to a clandestine encounter with renowned director So Wan-soo during the festival. Rather than retreat, Man-hee elects to prolong her stay in Cannes.

Meanwhile, Claire, a French teacher accompanying her friend to the city for a film screening, crosses paths with So at a quaint cafe. She takes him on a tour of a local library, where she patiently teaches him to recite a beautiful French poem. When not indulging in artistic pursuits, Claire is an avid photographer, capturing life's moments with her instant camera. At dinner with So and Yang-hye, she shares her latest snapshots, including one taken earlier that day of Man-hee looking radiant in makeup. The trio exchanges puzzled glances, struggling to comprehend the circumstances surrounding Man-hee's unexpected transformation.

The revelation arrives later, as Claire departs and So and Yang-hye's clandestine relationship is exposed, potentially contributing to Man-hee's termination. So makes a bold declaration, severing ties to ensure their professional partnership remains unaffected.

Man-hee crosses paths with Claire once more on the beach, where they strike up a conversation about food – specifically, Man-hee's desire to introduce Claire to authentic Korean cuisine. The two women return to Man-hee's apartment hotel, where they share a meal and stories. Claire recounts her chance encounter with So and Yang-hye, illuminating the reasons behind Man-hee's sudden departure from the film distribution company.

Their paths continue to intersect as Man-hee encounters So by chance at a hotel, who takes issue with her attire. Claire, also present, snaps a photo of Man-hee, leaving her visibly upset. Later, Man-hee invites Claire to visit the very cafe where she was once fired, now a poignant reminder of the past. As they sit together, Claire captures another image of Man-hee, imparting wisdom about the transformative power of slowing down and truly looking at the world around us. In a moment of vulnerability, Claire opens up about the loss of her boyfriend months prior, an event that has forever changed her perspective.

As Man-hee's storyline begins to unfold, Yang-hye appears at her doorstep, seeking closure in person. Though their conversation remains off-camera, Man-hee's professional life seems poised for a triumphant rebirth, as she reclaims her position with the film distribution company and begins anew.