OLDBOY

Director: Park Chan-wook

Writers: Hwang Jo-yun, Lim Jun-hyung, Park Chan-wook

Cast: Choi Min-sik, Yoo Ji-tae, Kang Hye-jung

Genre: Action, Thriller, Neo-noir

MPAA Rating: R (for strong violence including scenes of torture, sexuality, and pervasive language)

Duration: 120 minutes

Release Date: November 21, 2003 (South Korea)

Budget: $3 million

Rating: 8.4/10 (IMDb)

About the Movie and Production

"Oldboy" is a 2003 South Korean action thriller directed by Park Chan-wook. The film is a loose adaptation of the Japanese manga of the same name and serves as the second installment in Park's Vengeance Trilogy, preceded by "Sympathy for Mr. Vengeance" (2002) and followed by "Lady Vengeance" (2005). The narrative centers on Oh Dae-su, portrayed by Choi Min-sik, a businessman who is inexplicably imprisoned in a hotel-like cell for 15 years without any knowledge of his captor's motives. Upon his sudden release, Dae-su embarks on a quest for vengeance, delving into a labyrinth of conspiracy and violence.

The film was produced on a modest budget of $3 million but achieved significant critical acclaim and commercial success, grossing approximately $17.1 million worldwide. "Oldboy" garnered the Grand Prix at the 2004 Cannes Film Festival, with jury president Quentin Tarantino praising its bold narrative and stylistic elements. The movie is renowned for its innovative storytelling, complex characters, and a distinctive visual style that combines elements of neo-noir and action thriller genres.

Plot Summary and Overview

The story begins in 1988 when Oh Dae-su, an ordinary businessman, is suddenly abducted and confined in a private prison that resembles a hotel room. He remains imprisoned for 15 years, during which he learns through television that his wife has been murdered and that he is the prime suspect. Throughout his captivity, Dae-su endures psychological torment, leading him to train his body and mind for revenge. In 2003, he is unexpectedly released without explanation, equipped with money, a cellphone, and expensive clothes. Determined to uncover the identity of his captor and the reason for his prolonged imprisonment, Dae-su embarks on a relentless quest for vengeance. His journey leads him to Mi-do, a young sushi chef with whom he forms a complex relationship. As Dae-su delves deeper into the mystery, he confronts Lee Woo-jin, a wealthy man who reveals himself as the orchestrator of Dae-su's torment. The narrative unfolds with shocking revelations, exploring themes of memory, guilt, and the cyclical nature of vengeance.

My Personal Review

"Oldboy" is a cinematic tour de force that masterfully blends elements of action, thriller, and neo-noir genres. Director Park Chan-wook crafts a compelling narrative that is both emotionally resonant and intellectually stimulating. The film's intricate plot is complemented by its stylish cinematography and a haunting musical score.

Choi Min-sik delivers a powerhouse performance as Oh Dae-su, capturing the character's transformation from a bewildered captive to a man driven by an insatiable thirst for revenge. His portrayal is both raw and nuanced, conveying a spectrum of emotions that anchor the film's intense narrative.

The film's action sequences are meticulously choreographed, with the corridor fight scene standing out as a particularly iconic moment in cinema. Shot in a single continuous take, this scene encapsulates the film's blend of brutal realism and artistic expression.

"Oldboy" delves deep into themes of isolation, vengeance, and the search for identity. It challenges viewers to confront uncomfortable truths about human nature and the consequences of unchecked desires. The film's exploration of these themes is both thought-provoking and unsettling, leaving a lasting impact on its audience.

However, the film's intense violence and disturbing subject matter may not be suitable for all viewers. Its unflinching portrayal of brutality serves a narrative purpose but can be challenging to watch.

Conclusion

"Oldboy" is a landmark in South Korean cinema, offering a gripping narrative that is both complex and emotionally charged. Park Chan-wook's direction, combined with stellar performances and innovative storytelling, makes this film a must-watch for fans of the thriller genre. Its exploration of profound themes and its bold cinematic style have cemented "Oldboy" as a classic that continues to resonate with audiences worldwide.