We follow an artist frustrated with the wrongs others have caused him, not knowing who his vengeance might be coming for next.
This is my second Kim Ki-duk film, 3-iron being my first of his films. I enjoyed this one much more, although 3-Iron was highly rated in comparison. This film didn't lose me in the middle like 3- Iron did. It keep the suspense a lot tighter with comic breaks between the gore that kept me waiting for the next moment of vengeance to come. Good watch for some Oldboy lovers.
The violence in this film is something you may see in a Brian de Palmas film. Cutting away before showing the result of the main character's bloody vengeance. Leaving the viewer to wonder who might have escaped his retaliations.
You won't be enticed into watching this film with its cinematography but the way it is shot is propriety to the mood of the film. That doesn't mean it's bad, just not flashy.
The motivation of the main character is much more satisfying than that of the movie Saw but the ending doesn't hit as strong. Taste of Cherry anyone.