I stumbled across this title while looking for movies to watch. Apparently it was on the IMDb top 250 list and I had never even heard about it. Ashamed I quickly got hold of it and watched it, and what a movie it was. Being a South Korean movie I watched it with the original language and English subtitles.
Pretty much every aspect of this film is brilliant. Let me start with the story and plot. The plot seems simple enough. A man wants revenge on the person that held him captive for 15 years. However as the movie progresses the plot unfolds and the story changes into something a lot bigger and more shocking. When the final plot twists are over and believe me they are massive, you are left with an uneasy feeling. The movie touches some very delicate subjects and the viewer is left with moral dilemmas.
The acting is also superb. I can not start to imagine how this movie would have been without this level of quality. Every person does a fantastic job but it is the lead Min-sik Choi playing Dae-su Oh that really steals the show. He shines in every single scene.
They did a fantastic job with the rest of the movie as well. Editing is rock solid. Nothing is spoiled before the correct moments and the story unfolds perfectly, giving the movie a great flow. This is also thanks to the directing and other aspects. The music also deserves to be mentioned. There are some great choices and the overall feel is very satisfying. Great music really give movies that extra special feel, and this is a prime example of just that.
I fully understand why this movie is rated as high as it is. I strongly suggest everyone that has the opportunity to take it. You will not be disappointed. A true masterpiece. 10/10