Oldboy

Very haunting movie and it does leave a very long lasting effect on you. Initially, it seems like the classic revenge story, and it even references the Count of Monte Cristo, which follows Edmond Dantes' revenge against those who have falsely imprisoned him, much like Dae-su. However, as the plot progresses, the introduction to the antagonist is incredible and he is one of the most interesting and best portrayed villains, if we can truly call him a villain. The plot twists followed by plot twists are incredible, and they completely took me by surprise. The themes of revenge and the emptiness and futility of revenge are present throughout the movie. However, the most beautiful part of the film, was the final scene, where Dae-su takes steps away from his chair in the snow, symbolizing his development into, 'the monster' that he is referred to as. Cinematically, this film has very experimental shots and most of them are really unique and aesthetically pleasing, and it is a very intense psychological movie and it delves deep into the concept of vengeance and the hatred that is often produced by such a feeling. I just did not give it the full 5 stars because I felt it was overly violent, but the soundtrack, cinematography, plot development were all exceptional. The scene where Lee-Woo Jin reminisces to his past with his sister is not only beautiful from an artistic perspective, it is so hauntingly beautiful that I thought it was the best shot in the movie. 'I know that I am a beast but does that mean I have no right to live?'