Meaning: "Before Sunrise" is a romantic drama film directed by Richard Linklater and released in 1995. The quote provided by the director himself reflects the international success of the film. Linklater's statement highlights the fact that the movie performed exceptionally well in international markets, specifically in Italy and Korea, where it achieved similar levels of success as it did in its home country, the United States.

The film follows the story of Jesse (Ethan Hawke), an American traveler, and Céline (Julie Delpy), a French student, who meet on a train and decide to spend a romantic night together in Vienna before Jesse's scheduled flight back to the United States the next morning. The narrative primarily revolves around the deep and meaningful conversations the two characters share as they explore the city and form a strong emotional connection in the short time they have together.

"Before Sunrise" stands out for its unique and captivating storytelling, focusing on the intense and intimate connection between the two protagonists. The film's success can be attributed to the universal themes it explores, such as love, human connection, and the transient nature of relationships. These themes resonate with audiences across different cultural backgrounds, contributing to its international appeal.

Linklater's statement about the film's success in Italy and Korea underscores the global impact of "Before Sunrise." The fact that the movie achieved significant box office success in these countries demonstrates its ability to transcend language and cultural barriers. The themes and emotions depicted in the film clearly resonated with audiences worldwide, leading to its strong performance in international markets.

In Italy, the film's success can be attributed to the country's appreciation for romance and artistry in cinema. Italian audiences have historically embraced emotionally rich and intellectually stimulating films, and "Before Sunrise" aligns with these preferences. The film's exploration of love and human connection aligns with Italian cinematic traditions, contributing to its success in the country.

Similarly, the film's success in Korea can be linked to the country's growing interest in international cinema during the 1990s. Korean audiences were increasingly open to experiencing diverse storytelling and cultural perspectives, and "Before Sunrise" offered a compelling and relatable narrative that resonated with local viewers. The film's portrayal of the complexities of human relationships and the fleeting nature of romantic encounters struck a chord with Korean audiences, leading to its strong performance at the box office.

Overall, Richard Linklater's acknowledgment of the international success of "Before Sunrise" reflects the film's ability to connect with audiences on a global scale. Its universal themes, compelling storytelling, and authentic portrayal of human emotions transcended cultural boundaries, making it a beloved and successful film not only in the United States but also in Italy, Korea, and beyond. The movie's impact highlights the power of storytelling to resonate with diverse audiences and create a lasting impression that transcends geographical borders.