Oldboy
A fearless and depraved Greek tragedy that still hits me to the core with every viewing.
As my introduction to South Korean Cinema; I didn't know what to expect. All the knowledge I had was this is considered one of the greatest films of all time. It not only met those expectations, but has since become one of my favourite films ever.
PCW created an absolutely haunting film that will stay with you as the credits roll. The level of tragedy that is within this story is what makes it such a timeless classic. A deeply unrelenting and visceral look at how there is a monster in all of us.
The stellar camerawork by Chung Chung-hoon is dynamic and weaves a thread through each scene; mirroring the intense mystery that accompanies it. The use of negative space shots; transitions and match cuts come to full effect in this film.
Also, how can you not talk about the long take corridor fight scene? Just a riveting action sequence that showcases the mastery of PCW's direction and Chung Chung-hoon's visual expertise. The lighting is also fantastic with its use of pinks, purples and greens that bring an unsettling atmosphere.
Choi Min-shik's performance is without a doubt, one of my favourites of all time. The level of nuance and range he is able to convey is incredible. Capturing Oh Dae-su's intense rage, tormented soul and crumbling sanity perfectly. Yoo Ji-tae is undeniably sadistic and calculated. He makes my skin crawl despite his overtly charming and jovial exterior. Lee Woo-jin is the perfect antithesis to Oh Dae-su and a fantastic villain.
Kang Hye-jung is great as Mi-do. Her innocence and determination to help Dae-su uncover his past is admirable. Her relationship with Dae-su is strange but also quite sweet. Kim Byeong-huk and Oh Dal-su are so creepy and provide a very unnerving aura whenever they are on-screen. I could go on about this cast but everybody did an amazing job all round.
The score is marvellous and I hope that one day, I can own it on vinyl. Combining aspects of classical music, soft techno and trip-hop; it creates a gripping and ominous tone that will get your heart pumping and strike a chord. Astounding work by Jo Yeong-wook.
The editing is energetic and barely loses any momentum. Unfolding each new piece of information in a unique and satisfying way. I particularly love the way it communicates the progress of time during Dae-su's imprisonment.
What makes this such a triumph of cinema is how unflinching it is at depicting the human condition. Oh Dae-su is overcome with revenge and seeks answers for his imprisonment. Through every bit of suffering he endures; he is determined to find out the truth. Becoming a monster in the process.
Ultimately, leading to one of the most uncomfortable and horrifying twists of any film I've witnessed. Like Oh Dae su; we are left tormented and forever changed by this revelation. But the question is: can you live with it?
"Even though I'm no better than a beast, don't I have the right to live?"
10/10