An emotionally intense revenge drama depicting the anguish of a father grieving after his only daughter is raped and murdered. The compelling screenplay shows us the tormented father pursuing the young perpetrators while being pursued by the police. The movie offers a sincere portrayal of the weight of losing a loved one to a crime. Emotions run high, with satisfaction for the perpetrators, fear for those assisting, and anger for the father, while the police officers exhibit a troubling lack of understanding. The entire storyline feels very relatable and profoundly devastating. The actors delivered remarkable performances, breathing life into the screenplay, and for that, they deserve applause. Despite censorship regulations, they managed to create a compelling movie on a very uncomfortable topic. Although I haven't seen the original Japanese revenge movie, I have watched several Korean stories of parents seeking revenge that followed a similar trajectory. This movie feels remarkably authentic in portraying the tumultuous emotions following such a horrific crime.
I was really impressed with the streaming movie. It had great quality and a compelling synopsis. I wish the content received more recognition because I loved the mix of conspiracy, sword fights, and impressive CGI. The characters became more intriguing as the story progressed. I was expecting the typical power-hungry eunuchs, and they didn't disappoint. Their motives and accomplices kept me guessing, adding to the excitement of the adventure. The visuals were outstanding; they even reminded me of the movie "Shadow" with their focus on black, white, and red as the main colors. I also appreciated the insights into Jingju. Growing up watching Chinese operas on TV with my family, I have a soft spot for them till this day. Overall, this production is a great adventure that I highly recommend. The storyline kept me engaged all the way to the credits. It was a pleasant surprise; I didn't expect such a great movie. I can only hope for a future movie within the same universe and with the same actors.
I caught the international premiere of the movie today and I must say, it was quite an impulsive decision. The movie is a decent detective story with some imaginative concepts. When the villagers start dying, there's suspicion that a vengeful ghost granny is behind it all. However, as the investigators start to question whether a human could be responsible for these bizarre deaths, the real truth begins to unravel. I wouldn't call the story particularly groundbreaking; it's a classic investigative drama with eerie puppets. The mystery unfolds with predictable clues, but the depiction of the villagers' deaths is quite inventive. I particularly enjoyed the trio of characters with their distinct abilities. The photographer comes across as a strong and fearless woman, perhaps too intrepid for her own good, making her a character I could connect with. Additionally, the two main investigators are quite entertaining, and I would love to see more of them. Overall, it's a great movie for a relaxed afternoon.
I appreciate that the CGI in this particular movie isn't too convincing. As someone who is afraid of rats, the concept was both intriguing and terrifying. Although the idea is interesting, the synopsis could have been developed more effectively. Personally, I enjoyed it, especially considering it's a streaming movie – my expectations weren't very high. The fact that the film was enjoyable is good enough for me.
I thoroughly enjoyed the movie. The plot was engaging, and the two detectives did an excellent job of unraveling the mystery. The CGI was stunning and seamlessly integrated. The humor was well-executed, and the tense moments were equally effective. I'm genuinely impressed and must acknowledge the younger generation's dedication to streaming films. It's a delight to explore the latest releases.
Surprisingly, the mythical movie about separated lovers executed well. I have to admit, after watching the trailer, I didn't expect anything. Because I was in the mood to look at some light materials, I spontaneously watched CGI fireworks "Mengpo Biography." At first I wasn't sure if I would get into the story, but the writing convinced me to keep watching. The love story executed so well that I forgot about the low budget effect. The whole cat and mouse game was well done. The characters cannot display much because the run-time is too short. But I can imagine this material as a good drama series. I had fun and found it lovely.
It’s been a while since I last saw a Xuanhuan. The genre is a bit difficult for me to swallow. Sometimes we get a greatly told hero story and other times a cringe festival. In this case they tried the first but couldn’t convince thanks to the short run time. Everything feels rushed and superficial. The humor works for most past despite the annoying male lead. His childish and impolite behavior made my eyes roll for most part. That’s why I prayed he would get his powers fast, so, I won’t have to bother with his sulking anymore. The side characters similarly stay pale and forgettable. Everyone is saying that Part 2 is better and I’m still undecided if I’ll stay on this journey or not.
This action comedy film is simple and over-the-top, not taking itself too seriously. The characters appear less important than the fight and action sequences, making it a satisfying entertainment choice. If you enjoy pure action movies without any distractions, you'll also enjoy this streaming movie. Some moments are so exaggerated that they can only be classified as weird comedy. In a way, it feels like this movie is tailored for men who aspire to be flawless action heroes and enjoy the clichés.
The sequel was pretty impressive! While the first movie was a solid action flick, the sequel delves deeper into the relationship between the bounty hunter and an orphan, making for a more engaging storyline. The characters are given greater depth, and the sequel once again delivers exhilarating fight sequences, creative choreography, intense deaths, and plenty of action. The juxtaposition of the warm relationship between the leads and the brutal villain story is expertly executed and captivating to watch. If you enjoyed the first movie, you'll definitely love the sequel. Personally, I think it's even better! A strong comeback indeed!
This Wuxia film offers excellent sword fights, captivating shadow battles, and a compelling storyline. The characters are diverse, with some making significant contributions while others fall short. The costumes and CGI seamlessly blend into the production. The choreography and even the torture scenes are skillfully executed. It surpasses expectations for an online production.
I found the movie to be just as I expected: a hastily made TV film. When it comes to Xan Xias, I'm always a bit particular because they can either be a hit or a miss for me. This one has its charms, but it ultimately falls short due to its predictable storyline and lackluster CGI effects. The main actors have good chemistry, but it's not enough to redeem the entire movie.
A well-crafted horror thriller packed with references to the Korean independence fighters.
The film has two main storylines that delve into different subjects. The first explores the work of a shaman in the Mudang tradition related to Japanese colonial era, while the second delves deeply into Korean history in the time of the Geobokseon.
The intricate storyline is peppered with many hidden references, from character names honoring famous independence fighters to subtle nods like car signs paying homage to the March 1st movement. Amid the grisly and spiritual narrative, you catch glimpses of major Korean customs and historical sorrows, best understood with a solid grasp of Korean history, culture, and faith.
Personally, I was fascinated by the Buddhist protection sutra on Lee Do-hyun, not just for its appearance, but also for the depth of religious details it added. It serves as contrast to the modern faith of Ko Young Geun who quotes the Bible here and then.
The movie effectively portrays the passage of time, drawing comparisons between the past and the present. The entire exploration of the Oni is a tribute to national hero General Yi Sunshin and his legacy, providing a link to Korean culture and its struggle with history during Japanese conquer approaches. The portrayal of the customs to condemn traitors and their descendants for generations is compelling, shedding light on the reality of concealing the past and even profiting from treason. It offers a well-packaged social critique of modern times.
Furthermore, the film introduces Mudang shamans as a natural part of society, often sought after by the upper echelons, reflecting a reality of our time. It's enjoyable to uncover these nuanced details while watching. Given that it's my first viewing, I am certain that I haven't even noticed all the historical connections.
However, I couldn't help but notice the outstanding performance of Kim Go Eun in her role, and I also enjoyed her singing once again. From the first time I saw her to now, she has undeniably grown as an actress, and it's a pleasure to watch her in films. Initially, I was drawn in by the synopsis and Lee Do Hyun, but unfortunately, his full talent couldn't shine due to the limited number of scenes. Instead, we witnessed the powerhouse performance of Choi Min Shik, proving why he's the best. The film takes its time to build the entire story, but its in-depth exploration of shamanism, Buddhism, and history persuaded me to savor every moment.
In summary, I can only urge anyone intrigued by a smartly written horror thriller, coupled with an understanding of Korea, to watch this film. Without the latter, you might unintentionally limit the experience of the film. The strength of the movie is less the spiritual journey but the historical references to the Korean independence movements and its links to contemporary life. With that said I'm in the mood to return to Seodaemun.
I found the movie to be quite entertaining, with its ups and downs. Perhaps my enjoyment was due to not having seen the original Hong Kong version, so I couldn't make any comparisons.
The story developed gradually but consistently. Despite their profession, the characters were surprisingly likable, which I found remarkable.
The case was interesting, although it was somewhat predictable, which doesn't bother me much given today's cinema landscape.
The actors did a fantastic job, but unfortunately, the script and editing held the film back from reaching its full potential. Despite this, I really enjoyed seeing Gang Dong Won and Lee Jong Suk together, which made it even more enjoyable for me personally.
The trans character was cute. I really liked her. I just doubt that its portrayal is political correct, isn't it?
Overall, I thought the film was good and not as bad as some make it out to be. I'd recommend watching the film and forming your own opinion.
PS. Nobody can convince me that this movie is worse then “Illang” which is still the weakest movie of Dong Won for me, in parts related to the genre itself.
The Chinese adaptation of Contratiempo stays loyal to the original storyline while taking a completely unique approach to its production. Similar to the original, the ending is predictable, but the journey to get there is excellent. By setting the action in a South Asian setting, it not only resembles paradise but also adds a distinctive flair. Unlike the cool and restrained demeanor of the Spanish film, the remake is filled with vibrant colors, creating a sharp contrast to the murder. The actors deliver convincing performances, and at times, it seems like Greg Hsu is thoroughly enjoying his role. Watching the remake was truly enjoyable, particularly due to its many unique aspects, and I believe it is in no way inferior to the original.
The Chinese adaptation of Contratiempo stays loyal to the original storyline while taking a completely unique approach to its production. Similar to the original, the ending is predictable, but the journey to get there is excellent. By setting the action in a South Asian setting, it not only resembles paradise but also adds a distinctive flair. Unlike the cool and restrained demeanor of the Spanish film, the remake is filled with vibrant colors, creating a sharp contrast to the murder. The actors deliver convincing performances, and at times, it seems like Greg Hsu is thoroughly enjoying his role. Watching the remake was truly enjoyable, particularly due to its many unique aspects, and I believe it is in no way inferior to the original.
A fast-paced yet remarkable tale. The story may not be entirely original, but it captivates with its well-crafted narrative, compelling traditional scenes, and thrilling supernatural components. The struggle for power within the dynasty is not prolonged, but narrated in an engaging manner. Nonetheless, the plot twists are captivating and offer a surprise or two. Fans of Wu Xia will definitely enjoy this.
I couldn't care less about what others think; I simply adore a good Wu Xia film, regardless of its budget. This movie relies heavily on CGI, but the fight sequences and the sense of adventure were truly enjoyable. Considering that it's an exclusive iQIYI online production, I was pleasantly surprised and have absolutely no complaints.
I found it kind of unusual to describe the intense yet oddly peaceful Miike movie as bittersweet. But that’s exactly how I felt when the credits started rolling. It's perhaps the most polished film I've seen from Miike so far, and definitely worth watching, just like all his other projects. The main actors are well-known and really bring their characters to life. I especially like them because each one has their own unique charm and seems like the perfect fit for this film. The cat and mouse storyline is entertaining and not as boring as in many dark films. What really got me hooked, though, was the whole concept of a backwards spiral – I think it's a brilliant idea.
1 
The movie offers a sincere portrayal of the weight of losing a loved one to a crime. Emotions run high, with satisfaction for the perpetrators, fear for those assisting, and anger for the father, while the police officers exhibit a troubling lack of understanding. The entire storyline feels very relatable and profoundly devastating.
The actors delivered remarkable performances, breathing life into the screenplay, and for that, they deserve applause. Despite censorship regulations, they managed to create a compelling movie on a very uncomfortable topic.
Although I haven't seen the original Japanese revenge movie, I have watched several Korean stories of parents seeking revenge that followed a similar trajectory. This movie feels remarkably authentic in portraying the tumultuous emotions following such a horrific crime.
I wouldn't call the story particularly groundbreaking; it's a classic investigative drama with eerie puppets. The mystery unfolds with predictable clues, but the depiction of the villagers' deaths is quite inventive. I particularly enjoyed the trio of characters with their distinct abilities. The photographer comes across as a strong and fearless woman, perhaps too intrepid for her own good, making her a character I could connect with. Additionally, the two main investigators are quite entertaining, and I would love to see more of them. Overall, it's a great movie for a relaxed afternoon.
The film has two main storylines that delve into different subjects. The first explores the work of a shaman in the Mudang tradition related to Japanese colonial era, while the second delves deeply into Korean history in the time of the Geobokseon.
The intricate storyline is peppered with many hidden references, from character names honoring famous independence fighters to subtle nods like car signs paying homage to the March 1st movement. Amid the grisly and spiritual narrative, you catch glimpses of major Korean customs and historical sorrows, best understood with a solid grasp of Korean history, culture, and faith.
Personally, I was fascinated by the Buddhist protection sutra on Lee Do-hyun, not just for its appearance, but also for the depth of religious details it added. It serves as contrast to the modern faith of Ko Young Geun who quotes the Bible here and then.
The movie effectively portrays the passage of time, drawing comparisons between the past and the present. The entire exploration of the Oni is a tribute to national hero General Yi Sunshin and his legacy, providing a link to Korean culture and its struggle with history during Japanese conquer approaches. The portrayal of the customs to condemn traitors and their descendants for generations is compelling, shedding light on the reality of concealing the past and even profiting from treason. It offers a well-packaged social critique of modern times.
Furthermore, the film introduces Mudang shamans as a natural part of society, often sought after by the upper echelons, reflecting a reality of our time. It's enjoyable to uncover these nuanced details while watching. Given that it's my first viewing, I am certain that I haven't even noticed all the historical connections.
However, I couldn't help but notice the outstanding performance of Kim Go Eun in her role, and I also enjoyed her singing once again. From the first time I saw her to now, she has undeniably grown as an actress, and it's a pleasure to watch her in films. Initially, I was drawn in by the synopsis and Lee Do Hyun, but unfortunately, his full talent couldn't shine due to the limited number of scenes. Instead, we witnessed the powerhouse performance of Choi Min Shik, proving why he's the best. The film takes its time to build the entire story, but its in-depth exploration of shamanism, Buddhism, and history persuaded me to savor every moment.
In summary, I can only urge anyone intrigued by a smartly written horror thriller, coupled with an understanding of Korea, to watch this film. Without the latter, you might unintentionally limit the experience of the film. The strength of the movie is less the spiritual journey but the historical references to the Korean independence movements and its links to contemporary life. With that said I'm in the mood to return to Seodaemun.
The story developed gradually but consistently. Despite their profession, the characters were surprisingly likable, which I found remarkable.
The case was interesting, although it was somewhat predictable, which doesn't bother me much given today's cinema landscape.
The actors did a fantastic job, but unfortunately, the script and editing held the film back from reaching its full potential. Despite this, I really enjoyed seeing Gang Dong Won and Lee Jong Suk together, which made it even more enjoyable for me personally.
The trans character was cute. I really liked her. I just doubt that its portrayal is political correct, isn't it?
Overall, I thought the film was good and not as bad as some make it out to be. I'd recommend watching the film and forming your own opinion.
PS. Nobody can convince me that this movie is worse then “Illang” which is still the weakest movie of Dong Won for me, in parts related to the genre itself.