Chris Cathrine (ccathrine)

An absolute triumph! (I've always wanted to be able to say that - critics give that phrase out too easily!) Park Chan-wook's final installment in his vengeance trilogy is so exceptionally well crafted, he uses every conceivable device (from plot, to cinematography, to score, to casting, to phenomenal pacing), delivering a deeply thought-provoking philosophical and moral examination of human vengeance - the emotions accompanying it, and whether or not it can ever be justified. The audience is almost forced to participate in this intellectual and emotional question through the genius and perfect execution. Stand alone, this is a perfect film. In combination with 'Sympathy for Mr. Vengeance' and 'Oldboy', Park Chan-wook has created one of the most compelling, accessible and thorough discourses on human psychology ever committed to film.

A frankly vacuous film, as one may expect, but without any 'hook' to allow the audience to connect to a character and get onboard the rollercoaster ride through ludicrosity. This is a terrible shame, as the film is full of superb set-pieces, awe-inspiring effects, a few cheesy laughs and great actors... all of whom were well cast. Where did it go wrong? Well, although the plot is devoid of substance, it had the potential to make for a great blockbuster, so my eyes turn towards the director (which comes as no surprise - although why he keeps getting awarded such huge budgets may)...

A brilliant look at war from the perspective of a child. Beautifilly filmed, it is easily the best film I have ever seen.