This is one of those gems for people who think they have seen every movie, every storyline and every character. You haven't seen this movie! And this protagonist is about as complex as they get. Not a hero. Not a villain. Technically would classify in anti-hero, but a very unique one at that.
Hwayi: A Monster Boy begins with the shambles of a botched kidnapping, where the victim/protagonist dodges death for the first time. The criminals raise the kidnaped child as their own, and shape him into a criminal with a wide skillset.
That sounds fine right? The problem? The patriarch of the criminal group is a truly twisted sociopath. Through his misguidance, the group discovers the true potential of the child they have raised.
But really? That storyline sounds slick and cool, but this movie is awkward, unbalanced and super gritty: Truly irredeemable characters - Truly tragic characters - Not that half assed variety.
The violence is super compelling in its depictions. The violence is always tied to a deep emotion, or further plot point to be revealed. It is also grounded, believable violence that unfolds in ways one might actually expect.
The filmmaking is solid. The editing really shines, especially in the kinetic car chases and violent action sequences.
The acting is on point with a colorful cast of characters. I'd also have to compliment the direction. Obviously everyone, cast and crew were on the same page.
My only actual critique would be some of the minutia of the plot points, which clearly are important, but at times are delivered with such subtlety, that when the plot point concludes... I'd forgotten the setup - but that is probably more on me, and my lack of focus.
Speaking of which... think I covered most of why I really liked this movie. I'd understand if someone just couldn't get into the violent nature of the movie - or maybe just not like any of the characters. That happens to me in some movies, but not this one. Even the worst characters in this movie had me rooting for them a little, because of their depth and texture. And - I loved the ending. One of the better movies I've seen in quite a while.
Review of Hwayi: A Monster Boy
