Snowpiercer

Global warming was imminent and humans in their infinite wisdom decided to fix things. The result is a sudden ice age and the only escape is being on a self sufficient train that runs endlessly on a round the world trip. Even in these close confines of a train, a class system arises and there is the inevitable revolt. The film evoked critical response regarding how this a reflection of current society and class division. However, the point is lost of people that there is nothing original in this route and is a topic revisited over and over again. And if you sit through to the end, you will definitely be reminded of Omelas if you have read it. In fact, if you haven't read it go pick up a copy and ignore the film.

Rating: * +

"Snowpiercer poster" by impawards.com. Licensed under Fair use via Wikipedia.

The Host

A strange creature emerges from the Han river and causes havoc on its banks in Seoul. It then proceeds to make off with a teenage girl, Hyun-seo Park (Ko Ah-sung) much to the horror of her family. The Park family is determined to bring her back no matter the cost. A brilliant satirical take on the political climate in South Korea is couched in this bizarre monster flick by Bong Joon-ho.

Rating: * * +

Memories of Murder

The film is based on South Korea's first recorded serial killings that took place in the Hwaseong area. The police department shown in the flick reminded me of the cops in India. Largely incompetent, poor in technique and greedy for easy glory. When a competent cop comes along, another layer is peeled away revealing the ancient technology and scant resources available to the them. But in spite of all the road blocks, the detectives doggedly try to sniff out the scent of the killer.

An interesting note is that director Joon-Ho Bong has punctuated the film with some well placed comedy. Considering the serious nature of the film I am sure the audience would be shocked. But then that's life. One is not given a choice when humor creeps up on you.

A film that languished at the bottom of my queue for many a month. I am glad it magically made its way to the top.

Rating: * * *

Lady Vengeance

The final installment of Chan-wook Park's revenge trilogy. The best of the three in my book. Geum-ja (Yeong-ae Lee) is sent to prison for the murder of a 5 year old boy. Her return incarnation as an angel of vengeance is exceedingly disturbing and morbid but deadly.

Rating: * * +

Sympathy for Mr. Vengeance

Part one of Chan-Wook Park's revenge trilogy. Ryu is a deaf and dumb factory worker who loves his sister dearly. His sister is sick and in need of a kidney transplant. Ryu in pursuit of getting her a kidney ends up getting ripped off by a group of illegal organ dealers. So Ryu and his girlfriend come with a plan to raise money for the operation by kidnapping the factory owner's daughter. From then on, Chan-Wook Park takes you down the road to despair. When you think you have reached the end of the road, he flies you into another zone of desperation.

Rating: * *