Monster

MONSTER is another entry in the popular South Korean genre of serial killer movies. They always make these really nicely, with a maximum of suspense, and MONSTER is no exception. The only negative is that the first half an hour is so complicated and jumpy that I didn't have a clue what was going on, but as is so often the case with Korean cinema, it all works out and becomes quite simplified as it goes on. The story involves a young woman and the child in her care being menaced by a psychopath so unstoppable that he gives the Terminator a run for his money. There's murder, mayhem, fighting and some heavy scenes of melodrama that the Koreans are known for, but it all hangs together nicely.

This film is nothing like I expected, I'd almost call it brilliant in a way. The main character is totally great, you find her believable and are hoping she'll win against the odds. The villain is totally evil, crazy psycho but you also want him to win against his foes as well. Combining these elements makes you feel confused on who to cheer for! What's unique is this guys not just some crazy killer, there's a reason he's so screwed up and you learn more about his family throughout the film, as well as the girls. I think this is a masterpiece of crazy madness with insights into what makes someone that way. A very worthwhile movie to watch for sure.

Another dramatic Korean film that doesn't disappoint. This picture contains a rich evil businessman and his crimes. Through a series of events a psychotic killer is unleashed. The film switches back-and-forth between heart warming scenes and scenes of mayhem, death, and destruction. Events unfold where the victims start piling up until we get to our female protagonist. The two young characters are no match physically for the psycho adopted hitman that has been unleashed on them. You will find the action very believable whether it is in a crowded city or in the beautiful countryside. While the ending is satisfying it does not go over the top.

This instantly became one of my favorite films, even when I watched it without subtitles and couldn't understand a lick of Korean. I adore that the hero is a grown woman with a developmental disability and her relationship with the child has so much chemistry. The way in which the villain disposes of his victim's bodies and collection of mementos of his murders was my absolute favorite detail. It's the iconic theme that I always think of to identify this film. The cinematography is excellent as well as the acting. The script combines humor and horror in a fluid way that does not break immersion. The only thing that would make this film better in my opinion is to stray away from the campy blood splatter effects, but thankfully they are hardly used. What more, the minimal amount of blood used up until the climax made it all the more impactful. I definitely recommend.

A couple awkward parts here and there, but still, a tense and brutal movie!

I first saw Kim Go-Eun in "Memories of the Sword" (which I plan to watch again sometime; I don't think I paid enough attention to it last time), and now, this creepy thriller "Monster". And after this film, I simply must say: I ADORE her acting soooooooooooooooooooo much!!!! She commits to the role incredibly well, occasionally making me laugh, as well as making me cringe and whisper "oooo", or "eeek", or "woah", during an intense scene, or if she does something totally unexpected! After seeing Memories of the Sword again, I'll be able to compare both roles she played, while also preparing to check out some other performances of hers. But after today, I think I may personally like her performance in this brutal shocking thriller the best!! No lies here!

Definitely a sick and twisted villain too! Nice job to that actor's work as well!