Written by Park Hoon-jung | Directed by  Kim Jee-woon

Rating: ★★★★★

Well, here I go again—stepping out of my comfort zone with a genre I don’t typically enjoy. Yet, this film is impossible to ignore. The direction by Kim Jee-woon is masterful, and the performances, especially by Lee Byung-hun, are unforgettable. He’s long been one of my favorite actors, and his nuanced portrayal here is nothing short of remarkable. Every scene he appears in is a masterclass in emotional depth, reminiscent of his stunning work in Our Blues and A Bittersweet Life.

This is not an easy film to digest. It confronts viewers with the harsh realities of violence—not supernatural or fantastical, but the kind of brutality we often prefer to overlook. It left me reeling for weeks, and even now, recalling the story brings a heaviness to my heart. The way the film captures the dual emotions of love and hate is both haunting and deeply moving—a testament to the power of cinema.

That said, this isn’t a film for everyone. Its graphic content pushed the boundaries of South Korea’s Media Rating Board, which forced the director to make seven cuts, removing 80-90 seconds of footage to secure a theatrical release. Despite this censorship, the film retains its raw power and unflinching honesty. I can only imagine what was lost in those banned moments.

For fans of Korean cinema, this is a must-watch. Choi Min-sik delivers a powerhouse performance, rivaling his unforgettable role in Oldboy. And with Kim Jee-woon’s exquisite direction, every frame feels electrified with tension and artistry.

Image courtesy: Showbox Co. Ltd.