Exhuma (2024) User Reviews

an extremely well-crafted and ambitious horror film that has an uniquely korean historical/mythic DNA at its core.

[imxhill · 8/10 · 25 February 2024]

Disturbing, eerie, and tense, the first half of Exhuma is an explosive mixture of south korean folklore and mythicism. It effectively evokes the universal dread and mystery regarding the afterlife, and what we, people still living and walking on this earth, can and should do with regards to that. The spiritual and supernatural bridge dangling between the two worlds. It works excellently as a paranormal occult horror film. Great atmosphere, never looses the steam, with fairly memorable moments.

But then it reaches the mid point of the film, something happens that made me not exactly sure about how I feel about this film as whole. To be clear: I still did like it a lot and it is nonetheless a strong film, but the aforementioned uneasiness and tension quickly goes away, and never quite reaches the same high as the previous half. It is a reveal/decision that I do appreciate: it is ambitious, creative, and is a big swing that we do not often see in a south Korean film. Also helps that practical effects accompanying it are simply amazing. However, the tonal shift/jarring nature of it kinda turned me off. I do recommend going into the film completely blind!

Kinda torn between 3.5 and 4 stars. It the film carried the strengths of the first two acts to the third act, and kept the film more consistent, it easily would've been4 stars and maybe 4.5. Again, still a great film and I highly recommend this to anyone interested in horror films with uniquely korean/asian DNA embedded to it.

The hype works at its best

[Tradniam · 6/10 · 21 March 2024]

True. In my country the ticket has gone up unreasonably. Reviews came from movie goers even experts e.g directors make this film as a must see not only for horror lovers but also korean movie lovers. Yes. The hype. Now does it worth it? My answer is no.

Actors are well known. The shaman lady supposed hold the major key to scare spectators. Kim Go Eun should have learnt from Vera Vermiga portraying the famous psychich Lorraine Warren. People have no idea how was Lorraine Warren in real. But Vermiga shows no matter her extra capability and expertise, she's never in fine mood during scanning or experiencing any paranormal activity.

And when eventually the evil is a giant samurai is somehow outrageous. Never described how that's possible. I am sensing classic Hollywood horror which exploiting unexplained creatures. Not stopping there, the giant samurai could alter into huge fireball. Ouch!

So I was so curious, because viewers comparing it with The Wailing, then I'm disappointed. Indeed The Wailing is a must see, way better plot and end in one horrific scene. Many other must see Korean thriller/horror movies are: The Call and The Forgotten.

Anyway my appreciation is on the script, connecting the history of Peninsula. Other thing to give a thumb up is the cinematography.

Very Well Done

[Foutainoflife · 7/10 · 24 April 2024]

Shamanistic rituals, curses, folklore, history, feng shui, omens, grave digging, ghosts, demonic beings and a built in sequel to the original story. This film has it all.

The initial plot of this film revolves around a group of spiritualists trying to save a baby from a curse that is plaguing the first born sons of a prosperous bloodline. This could be a stand alone storyline but just when you think the story has come full circle, we are introduced to a follow-up storyline that delves deeper into causation. It is quite a ride.

The film was a bit muddled for me as a lay person simply because I lack knowledge regarding some of it's Korean cultural and spiritualistic aspects. I would've liked things to have been slowed down a bit and better explained but the film is already a bit long. I would've liked it to been two movies so that would've been ample time to dive deeper and provide better insight for me.

That being said, the atmosphere is well constructed, dark and really compliments the story. It felt really foreboding at times. The actors were all well seasoned and the effects were immersive and captivating.

I really enjoyed it so if you like Asian horror, you should definitely check it out.

ether

[Skillerpx · 6/10 · 24 March 2024]

Very good at first, what happened after? It's not scary like it brought Japanese ghosts like this. Many things are not clear. But this idea of bringing water and fire, all 5 elements, is good. But like the second half of the story, it's really not fun. As for the rest, the costumes are all good. Ghosts die too easily. Overall it was fun but not very impressive. The only thing I remember about this story is the Tripitaka tattoo design. That's all I remember. I thought it was a big impact of the story but the background didn't cover anything at all. Well, that's it, viewers. Ok mai ka ti gu review.

One of the most perfect and balanced horror movie I've ever seen

[daryopeek · 9/10 · 4 March 2024]

"Exhuma" is a horror gem that demands your attention, despite its seemingly long runtime. Trust me; the payoff is worth every minute.

The movie cleverly unfolds in distinct chapters, each packing its own mini-climax. This approach, rather than overwhelming us with a convoluted plot, allows for a detailed and engaging exploration of "smaller" stories. I found myself invested in every chapter, thanks to the intriguing mysteries woven into each one. The storytelling is top-notch, blending visual and narrative clues seamlessly, ensuring that even the casual viewer can follow along.

What sets "Exhuma" apart for me is its refreshing take on horror. Instead of relying on cheap jumpscares, the film opts for atmospheric horror that keeps you on edge while pulling you deeper into the story. It's a balance of terror and curiosity that's executed brilliantly.

Now, to be fair, there are moments where the narrative feels a tad disjointed, making it a bit challenging to follow. Yet, the film's redeeming quality lies in its refusal to bombard you with ghosts every second. It takes its time, allowing the story to breathe and unfold naturally.

In the end, "Exhuma" isn't just another horror flick; it's a journey that respects your time and delivers a story worth experiencing. So, ignore the runtime concerns, and let this movie grip you with its unique blend of chills and storytelling finesse.

Another Chilling Folk Horror Phenomenon From Korean Cinema

[SAMTHEBESTEST · 6/10 · 2 May 2024]

Exhuma (2024 : Movie Review:

Korean cinema is definitely redefining the horror genre for modern cinema lovers. Jang Jae-hyun's Exhuma is another fine example of it. The film has turned out to be a huge hit at the box office, and I don't wonder. Such new and intense attempts at story-telling deserve audiences' support. I am glad that Korean audiences and critics gave Exhuma what it deserved. Na Hong-jin's "The Wailing" received universal acclaim, and it remains the best horror flick in recent times, not just in Korean cinema but all over the world. Exhuma isn't that good, but certainly close to it, and believe me, it's an achievement in itself in today's time.

Renowned Korean shaman Hwa-rim (Kim Go-eun) and her protégé, Bong-gil (Lee Do-hyun), are called by a wealthy Korean American family to identify the mysterious illness of the family's newborn son, who is struggling in the hospital. Hwa-rim uncovers the curse to be a 'Grave's Call', a vengeful ancestor's spirit haunting them. The family's patriarch, Park Ji-Yong, entrusts them to relocate the grave to appease the ancestor, his grandfather. Hwa-rim enlists colleagues, a Feng shui master, Kim Sang-deok (Choi Min-sik), and a mortician, Yeong-geun (Yoo Hae-jin). The coffin is opened by mistake, and the soul is freed from it to take the lives of other family members. After burning that coffin, the team finds an even more vicious soul, which was buried at the same place and is guarding the place. It's neither human nor animal, and it can't be eliminated. Will the team be able to get a hold of this new Japanese soul/monster who is fighting a war for the land?

Exhuma is a little long if we have to consider the overall grip of the narrative. I would have liked it to be 120 minutes instead of 130 minutes. Those 10 minutes felt over. Rest, no complaints about the screenplay. It's chilling, terrifying, and damn intriguing. You don't get to see those ghostly faces again and again; you see them only two or three times, but they do scare the hell outta you. That's one reason to love Korean cinema. They don't overdo supernatural stuff and keep it to a minimum so that we value them more. Seeing the same monster again and again reduces the fear factor. Exhuma has enough surprises, such as folk horror, family curses, land issues, haunting supernatural stuff, etc. The dialogues could have been better, I guess. The whole idea of the monster, the killing, and revenge could have been more brutal verbally. They missed that chance. Rest, it's a superb narrative in a new-age horror zone.

I am not very familiar with the Korean actors and their previous works, so I'll only speak about this film in particular. Choi Min-sik, Kim Go-eun, Yoo Hae-jin, and Lee Do-hyun looked fantastic in their roles. Kim Sun-young, Kim Jae-cheol, and Kim Ji-an did pretty well in the supporting roles. In horror movies, the most important part is those frightening expressions, which were captured by these people in the film. There are no various shades, but one zone-horror. That's too difficult sometimes and too easy sometimes for some people. Exhuma's did everything they could with their characters, even though it takes time to get to the pickup point.

Horror movies are very much dependent on the sound design that helps build up the atmosphere and devilish scare around you. Exhuma has been blessed with a perfect score and sound design for the horror genre. That continuous background score in the last 15 minutes gets on your nerves, and there are some moments that get too loud to shake you from inside. The film has been blessed by another powerful aspect, and that's its terrific cinematography. Those cut-to scenes, blackouts, and shaking frames tell you what the real horror motion picture means. Just don't blink in those intense and terrifying moments. The locations of the mountains, old mansion, grave, and gorge are beautiful. Jang Jae-hyun has done a commendable job as a director. He has a solid grip on the whole narrative, and he doesn't really let you go out of that shaman and burial world. A few flawed and slow moments could have been avoided, but they don't hurt much to the overall viewing experience. As a whole, Exhuma is a chilling and phenomenal horror flick in new-age filmmaking that borrows old formulas only to redevelop them for modern audiences. If you are looking for a real horror thriller, then this one's the latest version of it.

RATING - 6/10*

Best Asian/Korean exorcism movie I've seen yet

[qypkv-67641 · 10/10 · 16 March 2024]

Superb ensemble. Choi Min-sik's casting alone already sets the tone for the movie. The other actors are also all already proven artisans so not much more to say.

Good, strong storytelling but the production value and the overall atmosphere including the sound engineering was what really sold it for me.

Usually ghost films are one or the other. Either paranormal with invisible spirits leaving the rest to imagination or showing the actual monsters for a more direct interaction with the characters. This movie was very interesting in the sense that they mixed the two and in a very clever way.

Also, very refreshing to learn about Asian/Korean and Buddhism influenced lores over the 'now almost cliche Western/Christian ones.

It could have been scarier

[sir_aan · 7/10 · 11 March 2024]

Good movie and good acting. The part I liked was the depiction of the culture and the part I didn't like was that it wasn't scary. The potential of this movie is amazing and can be made even scarier. It's nice to be able to follow a neat and structured storyline. I had to endure going to the toilet so I wouldn't miss a scene. However, when I saw the ghost, I thought I was seeing the enemy of Resident Evil. For psychics and fengshui experts this movie is okay to watch. Thank you for making such a good movie, for me this is more of a semi-horror drama movie. Let's make a scarier movie. Happy watching.

Not A Typical Horror Movie

[Andikalix · 8/10 · 23 March 2024]

Exhuma is a South Korean horror film that has garnered critical acclaim for its suspenseful atmosphere and exploration of Korean folklore. The narrative delves into themes of family history and hidden truths, uncovering a chilling mystery. As the characters investigate deeper, they encounter a series of unexplained events that blur the lines between reality and the supernatural. Exhuma has been lauded for its unique blend of Korean folklore with classic horror tropes. This fresh approach is said to create a suspenseful and unsettling cinematic experience. Critics have also commended the film's slow-burn pacing, which keeps viewers engaged as the mystery gradually unfolds. Exhuma is likely to appeal to fans of horror cinema who enjoy films that weave cultural themes into their narratives.

It was slightly what I expected.

[imocorroisach · 7/10 · 23 March 2024]

I watched this Movie like yesterday after school, it was a random decision but one of my best. I remember seeing the poster for this movie and thought that it was gonna be a horror film about some ancient Korean traditions, but when I saw it I was 5mins late, the story building up is great and did not make me bored, I thought it was a flop until watching further. It wasn't scary at all, but it was very thrilling and exciting, a lot of great scenes and it has a very familiar cast. This movie did not disappoint. Though it fits the thriller genre more than a horror movie, although there were monsters and spirits, there were no jumpscares though. I recommend it, it was a good movie.

Not just horror movie. It is about independence ofrea from Japan.

[coldman-70099 · 10/10 · 24 February 2024]

Korean warriors kill old samurai! I enjoy this movie. But little bit sad.

Director say that the bad guys still in Korea now. They haven't dead.

Usually korea horror movie show like a spritual thing such as ghost or soul. However, main characres keep talking about this evil is physical thing and have a shape. Also refer to yin, yang and five element kind of old asia physics.

The person who was buried is Japan friendly person. And Japan samurai was buried to shut a energy of korea. In th last part of movie, they appeared so vividly not like an apparition. It means they are real in the world not just ideoloy or old story.

Exhuma

[CinemaSerf · 7/10 · 20 March 2024]

"Kim" (Choi Min-sik) is what they call a geomancer. He advises people on the best places for them to bury their loved ones. It's all about feng shui. Woebetide anyone who gets it wrong for a disgruntled ancestor can come back and visit retribution on anyone who mucks that process up - just ask the grandchild who though he would retain grandma's false teeth as as souvenir! Anyway, the wealthy "Park" (Kim Jae-cheol) and his family appear to have a secret that he and the more spiritual pairing of "Hwarim" (Kim Go-eun) and "Bong Gil" (Lee Do-hyun) might be able to help with. Even as far away as in the United States, his family are being tormented by a spirit. They are all led to a remote grave atop a hill that is marked simply by a plain gravestone with no name, just some seemingly random numbers. The buried man was of some importance so the fact that his grave was not ideally placed (only 65/100 on the best plot to have scale) arouses suspicion. They proceed to exhume the uniquely carved juniper coffin and decide to cremate it, but it's considered unlucky to do this in wet weather so leaving it respectfully dressed, plan to complete the process in the morning. This is their first mistake for overnight it falls prey to an inquisitive member of their team who releases an even more menacing entity bent on revenge on all those who left him at 65%! That is just the start of their woes, though. Returning to the grave for a ritual, they discover an even larger, chain-wrapped, box buried vertically - and one with no name, neither! It's now we head straight into "Mummy" mode and the adventure really does pick up. Can they identify this leviathan of menace and terror and thwart it's centuries-old battle plan? I did quite enjoy this. It taps into a fascinating mix of mysticism and legend whilst adding a dose of modern day cynical exploitation (they get paid over $500,000 for their relocation "fee") and as the story moves along you wouldn't want to be a chicken - or a pig, either! The largely dark and wet scenarios work well with the sparing usual of visual effects and a strong ensemble performance that keeps the story of dreams and nightmares moving along well for 2¼ hours of well made and at times quite scary ancient horror.

Not worth the hype

[Universaliva · 3/10 · 3 May 2024]

"Exhuma" promised to breathe new life into the tired tropes of exorcism horror, especially when Choi Min Sik is in it, but instead, it stumbled into the graveyard of mediocrity, failing to resurrect anything remotely interesting or engaging. From its uninspired characters to its lackluster plot, "Exhuma" is a film that feels like a missed opportunity from start to finish.

The film opens with the familiar setting of a graveyard, where everything appears peaceful and serene on the surface. However, as the story unfolds, it becomes clear that there are dark secrets lurking beneath the soil. It's a setup that has been done to death in horror cinema, and "Exhuma" does little to distinguish itself from the countless other films that have explored similar territory.

One of the biggest issues with "Exhuma" is its characters, who feel like cardboard cutouts rather than flesh-and-blood people. As a result, it's hard to care about their fates when they're faced with the horrors that unfold.

The pacing of "Exhuma" is another major stumbling block, with the film meandering aimlessly from one scene to the next without any real sense of purpose or direction. Instead of building tension gradually, the film feels disjointed and unfocused, leaving viewers wondering when, if ever, something interesting is going to happen. Even when the scares do finally arrive, they feel forced and predictable, failing to elicit any genuine fear or excitement. Like monster turns into a flying fireball. Really....?

One of the few bright spots in "Exhuma" is its visual style, which manages to capture the eerie atmosphere of suburban life effectively. From the shadowy streets to the dimly lit interiors of the characters' homes, the film does a commendable job of creating a sense of unease and dread. However, this visual flair is ultimately wasted on a story that fails to deliver any real scares or surprises.

In the end, "Exhuma" is a forgettable entry in the horror genre that fails to leave a lasting impression. With its bland characters, sluggish pacing, and lackluster scares, it's a film that will leave audiences feeling more bored than frightened. Save your time and seek out more worthwhile horror offerings - "Exhuma" is one resurrection that should have been left buried.

Bit of a letdown. Disjointed.

[sgildea-78306 · 6/10 · 25 April 2024]

Exhuma was a movie I was looking forward to seeing and had avoided learning anything about before I saw it.

I was mainly hopeful because of the cast.

It starts pretty strongly with a feeling of class from the acting to the production values.

The story wasn't clear at first but then I got my hopes up as the first grave is dug up.

However this part of the story seems to be wrapped up quite quickly with the cremation scene and it then delves into Korean and Japanese history with strong anti Japanese feeling.

Now I'm not familiar with the history of these countries to a great extent so maybe a bit of this stuff wasn't for me as an Englishman.

But I completely understood it, It was just an unexpected turn of the story and then the film devolves into some weird thriller full of special effects (admittedly well done) that would fit into more of a comic book style horror.

It's incredibly disjointed.

If anyone compares this film favourably with The Wailing, ignore them. The wailing is far far superior.

This film is worth a watch but don't expect a classic horror movie.

Korean Horror Delves into the history of the Japanese occupation

[dngoldman · 8/10 · 31 March 2024]

"Exhuma" emerges as a bold tapestry of horror, weaving together an array of tropes that challenge the boundaries of the genre. Its narrative is a complex interplay of classic horror elements, grave digging, psychological twists, demon hunting, and unexpected comedy, creating a cinematic experience that is as unsettling as it is innovative. The overlay of the history of the Japanese occupation adds a layer of moral complexity. While some cultural symbolism may be lost on international audiences, the film's deliberate pacing cultivates a tension that transcends cultural barriers, culminating in a climax that is both disorienting and impactful. "Exhuma" may not prioritize narrative clarity, but it compensates with a visceral journey through the macabre, leaving viewers with a lingering sense of unease and contemplation long after the credits roll. The film's commitment to a slow-burn approach rewards patient viewers with a thought-provoking exploration of horror that refuses to be confined by conventional expectations.

A Haunting Exploration of Family Secrets and the Supernatural

[Mysterygeneration · 7/10 · 11 March 2024]

Exhuma, a recent South Korean supernatural thriller, has been making waves for its chilling atmosphere and suspenseful story. Directed by Jang Jae-hyun and starring a stellar cast including Choi Min-sik, Kim Go-eun, Yoo Hae-jin, and Lee Do-hyun, the film follows the unsettling events that unfold after the exhumation of a mysterious family grave.

The film opens slowly, establishing a sense of discomfort as it tells the story of an affluent family that has experienced strange happenings for centuries. The director can effectively develop the characters and create a genuinely frightening environment by using a slow-burn strategy. The power of Exhuma resides in its ability to entwine mythology and folklore from South Korea with the unsettling truth of a family facing its troubled past.

Early praise for the film highlights its impressive use of suspense and dread. Reviewers commend the first half for its "explosive mixture of South Korean folklore and mythicism" that effectively taps into our universal fear of the afterlife. Exhuma is lauded for being a return to form for director Jang Jae-hyun, who is said to have struck a good balance between character development, plot, and building a truly frightening cinematic experience.

Even while the movie is getting good reviews, others note that not everyone will enjoy the scary parts. Exhuma may not be the fast-moving gorefest you're searching for. Exhuma, however, is certain to please those who value a slow-burn strategy that depends on atmosphere and fear.

The spooky thriller Exhuma appears to have been masterfully created, and it will stick with you long after the credits have rolled. Exhuma is a film that is highly recommended, particularly for those who enjoy slow-burning supernatural flicks or Korean cinema, due to its exceptional performances, captivating narrative, and distinctive fusion of horror and folklore.

Exhuma is A good Horror Thriller

[tkdlifemagazine · 8/10 · 14 March 2024]

Exhuma is a dark and engaging modern horror film from Director Jang Jae-Hyun. It is a bold and worthy undertaking and worth watching.

I had previously read that the South Korean film market had a sweet spot for mid-budget horror films; however, since most of the titles we screen are action and martial arts films, I have not been exposed to too many in the horror genre. Exhuma is just such a film. Quite frankly, I did not know what to expect. Was I pleasantly surprised at how good Exhuma is.

This film is a bold undertaking by Director Jang Jae-Hyun because it has become very typical for modern horror audiences to be subjected to elements of comedy, nudity, and sexual content in order to balance the horror elements. These elements also distract viewers, quite often, from the lack of a solid story and good Direction.

This film takes a dramatically different approach. The film handles its subject matter very seriously. The approach is akin to a modern dramatic film, founded on its belief in its story, its cast, and its Direction. Horror films, taken too seriously, and missing the proper tone, can be disastrous experiences for the audiences. Jae-Hyun, seemingly, believed that these core, stripped down elements of this film would be sufficient to satisfy the viewer. That bold gamble paid off. The film has the makings of a modern horror classic.

The cast is stellar. Choi Min-Sik, the star of one of 2010's best films, I Saw The Devil, stars as a Geomancer called together with a group of paranormal professionals to investigate a strange infant illness that has deep roots in the ancestral roots of a prominent Korean Family. The entire cast is believable, and compelling, and very suited for this film.

The Direction, Cinematography, and locations all add to the truly eerie and interesting nature of this film. The film is broken up into six (6) chapters, which make its story more easily digestible. While most horror movies tend to be closer to to the ninety (90) minute mark, this one is over two (2) hours so the chapter format does a good job of breaking up the story into more manageable blocks for the audience.

While the film has some elements that are deeply rooted in 20th Century Korean history and Sociology, lack of prior knowledge of either does not distract from the impact and enjoyment of the film.

Exhumed is just goof filmmaking, and well worth watching. I would see it in the theater if you can.

Watch it in Korean, with some Japanese language and with English subititles.

Creepy and foreboding.

[paulclaassen · 6/10 · 1 May 2024]

Note: this review might contain spoilers.

An American family contacts Hwa-rim (Kim Go-eun), a shaman, when their baby son has a mysterious illness. Hwa-rim helps people who need to rid their homes and families of ghosts, demons, or supernatural beings. She discovers the baby's illness is due to a curse from the grave.

On behalf of the family, Park Ji-Yong (Kim Jae-cheol) shows Hwa-rim and her partner Bong-Gil (Lee Do-hyun) the location of the family's Grandfather's grave. Accompanying them, is feng shui expert Kim Sang Deok (Choi Min-sik) and funeral home owner Ko Young Geun (Yoo Hae-jin). The grave is in a remote location on a mountain, and there is no name on the grave. The family now wants the grave relocated, but on arrival Sang Deok senses something evil.

Hwa-rim performs rituals to ward off evil spirits, and the grave is excavated. The coffin is to be cremated. When one of the diggers kills a snake with a human head, evil spirits are unleashed and shortly after it starts to rain. Apparently, cremation can't be done when it rains as it will prevent the grandfather's spirit from smoothly moving upward.

When a custodian at the funeral home opens the coffin, a vengeful spirit is unleashed. Now, the Grandfather's spirit targets his family members, but when the coffin is cremated, the curse is lifted. However, later it is discovered there was a double burial on the grave site, with a large coffin being buried vertically underneath the Grandfather's coffin, and this is when things start going terribly wrong!

'Exhuma' is a creepy film with a constantly foreboding atmosphere. One never really knows what to expect. There were a few confusing moments here, but in general this is a good movie. The make-up and visual effects are very good. 'Exhuma' reminded me of a cross between the Korean film 'The Wailing' and the Cantonese film 'Rigor Mortis'.

An interesting horror film based on korean mythology.

[angykk · 8/10 · 11 April 2024]

Exhuma is built/based on Korean spiritual mythology specifically about the after-life and spirits. The movie follows four main characters. Hwa-rin and Bong-gil are a master/protege shaman pair who deal with spirits. Kim is a gravemancer, who primarily finds good plots of land based on feng shui and Ko, a christian mortician (I'll refer to them from their last names) who sells them.

Hwa-rin initially gave me the impression that she was a "girl-boss" type character that was quite resolute and confident in herself. Bong-gil, in contrast, was a very quiet character that seemed to follow the protege role quite concretely. He allowed her to speak and aided and supported her in rituals. I initially quite liked Hwa-rin's character, but I was a bit disappointed later on when it seemed like even though she was characterized to be smart and quick-witted, she was always frozen in terror in moments that mattered the most. This is both a pro and con in my book as it gives her depth and allows her to break out of the "girl-boss" stereotype, but it was annoying to see her unable to do anything to help Bong-gil or protect him. Hwa-rin was initially driven by the money incentive and didn't really take into account the ominous signs she was seeing. Later, specifically after seeing the vertical coffin and the lack of money incentives, she's not so keen on joining. This shows that Hwa-rin's fundamentally thinking about the money as she is well established as a shaman. She's not as driven by a selfless desire to "cleanse the land" like Kim is. I really like Bong-gil, who's able to think quick on his feet and who's not as quiet as initially characterized. I really enjoyed Lee Do-hyun's acting when he was possessed and also impressed by his fluency in Japanese.

Kim and Ko were quite an interesting pair to watch. They're business partners but also friends who care for each other. My first impression of Ko was that he was greedy for money, which is true to a certain extent as he did steal jewelry from a coffin. However, I was quite happy when it was revealed that it was not because of Ko that the coffin was unsealed. It helped both establish his understanding of the dangers of the spirits despite his own religious beliefs and the trust between the pair. Ko wouldn't do that to Kim as he understands it would put both of them in danger. Kim initially was a gravemancer that seemed to follow his survival-instinct/gut. He refused to excavate the grave after seeing the ominous energy that was emitting from the plot, but was later convinced when Hwa-rin stated that she didn't need his permission. Throughout that scene, it's extremely clear that Kim is regretting joining them in excavating the grave. Later on, specifically after Park Jin-yong's death, we can see that Kim's mindset has changed significantly. He feels guilt from the deaths caused by the spirit and feels a sort of responsibility for that nameless grave. This causes him to go back to the plot of land and later discover the shogun. In the second half of the movie, Kim is extremely resolute in trying to address the issue, while in contrast, Hwa-rin is now unsure. In a sense, these two have kind of swapped stances although they're fueled by different motivations.

I thought one of the first lines Hwa-rin said was a bit interesting. She stated that "I'm Korean," to a Japanese flight attendant. This both helped establish that 1) she speaks japanese 2) people mistake her for japanese often, and 3) she wanted to make a distinction that she was not Japanese. When watching the movie I was confused as to why she needed to make that specific distinction but as this movie dealt with shoguns from imperial Japan and the war between the two countries, it made sense in the end. This movie kind of taps into Korean nationalism. Although I will say that line was a bit cringy when it did happen.

The first half of the movie lived up to my expectations of the movie. The suspense was built up masterfully and had me on the edge of my seat the entire time. The first scene with the nameless grave was so ominous I had to look away. The gore in the movie was not too little and not too much, and the combination of spirit possessions and the mix of Japanese and Korean made it unsettling to watch. I also really liked how the audio scape of the first half of this movie. Often times it was almost completely silent except for rustling/the sound of the breeze. I also enjoyed how the film was directed and that the spirits were often blurry/unfocused and although the focus of the scene, always out of focus. It had me squinting sometimes in the movie theatre lol.

The second half of the movie was quite a bit different I would say. Especially after the reveal of the shogun in his entirety, I would say the horror aspect of the film lost a lot of its "horror". It reminded me of the Barbarian, who also suffered from the same thing. I did enjoy the vertical grave scene, which was such a contrast to the previous scene at the grave plot as it was so much more lively with people and rituals. It just reinforced the ominous setting of the grave. Another scene I really liked was the first look at the shogun with Hwa-rin. It had me at the edge of my seat and Kim Go-eun's acting was superb in that scene. I liked the reveal of the reason why the shogun's there as well as the backstory behind the Park family. The visuals of the knife stabbing the penninsula of Korea was quite good. The scene where Hwa-rin was distracting the shogun was clever. I liked the idea that even the Shogun must be cautious of different gods. The scene itself just looked so visually pleasing as well. Aside from that, there were quite a few plot points I didn't like about the second half. The buddhist tattoos, which was the main focus of the movie tattoos were kind of treated as comedic relief in a scene, and later revealed quite quickly to be useless against the shogun. Basically just undermined the significance of those tattoos and it seemed like that entire plot point could be removed without issue. The last scene where Kim defeats the shogun had me completely confused and I don't think it was quite clear that the iron stake was in the shogun itself. Also the fact that the shogun was defeated so easily just based on the four elements- It definitely felt like an easy way out. They kind of built of the shogun to be industructible and it was also stated in the movie that "he couldn't be eliminated."

Overall, I think this movie was quite good. The premise is really unique and something that has me interested in more korean/japanese mythology. I got quite attached to each character as well as their family dynamic. I was quite satisfied with the happy ending and even shed a few tears when Kim was "dying."

Isn't entirely unique but manages skillfully...!!!

[PANDIAN120621 · 7/10 · 6 May 2024]

Exhuma is supernatural film that slowly builds up the mystery and there are no jumpscares When you just think you know what is going to happen, the makers surprise it with the plot twist...

It was really scary in the first 1 hour, especially the coffin and grandpa seek revenge on the descendants... The plot thickens when they arrived at the eerie looking grave site. There's shamanic, feng shui, East Asian burial ritual, spirit possession, Korean history and Japanese occupation history info to gain while this movie... There's a reason why the Asian elders who survived the Japanese occupation continues to hate the Japanese up till now. So many horrendous acts have been commited and things done to their graves even after death...Historically accurate and is focused on the culture and traditions about respecting the dead in the southeast asia & how important is properly burying the dead...

To non-Asians, this is a good movie to watch to understand why Asians have their own ways and rituals of showing respect to their ancestors and honoring the dead...

Overall it's not everybody's cup of tea but one can find it interesting to explore the culture of Korean & Japan...

Amazing storyline and acting!!!!!

[meethanbi · 10/10 · 3 April 2024]

All of the casts were amazing. Watched wanting the movie to never end. Everyone played very well and loved the visuals and the story line.

I hope people who don't know korean history to learn about it before watching Exhuma to get 150% of the movie.

The music and cinematography was excellent. Music definitely added a lot of colour to this movie. I strongly recommend you to go to the theatre and watch it.

The story buildup was amazing too. The genre is a horror movie but it was rather eerie and spooky. I loved it more!! I hate those old style loud and sudden shocking style ghost movies. Loved it that this wasn't those type of movie at all!

Supernatural Horror Movie Harmed by Unnecessary Racism

[kluseba · 7/10 · 23 April 2024]

Exhuma is a supernatural horror movie from South Korea by director Jang Jae-hyun and starring one of the country's greatest actors ever with versatile Choi Min-sik. In a globalized world, I was more than happy to enjoy this film at the cinema of my neighbouring city. To my negative surprise, I was the only spectator who wasn't Korean in the audience. People finally need to understand that there is a wonderful cinematic world to discover out of Hollywood. Make sure to spread the word about this very good horror film.

This movie revolves around two shamans, a mortician and a Feng Shui master who are hired to lift the curse from a prosperous family of Korean emigrants by relocating the grave of their ancestor. However, things start completely spiralling out of control when this relocation occurs. Something far more sinister than the buried body of an ancestor is hidden on the gloomy hill next to the North Korean border.

Exhuma convinces on several levels. First of all, the story comes around with a few interesting shifts and turns that will keep the audience entertained throughout. The movie's ominous atmosphere is gripping from start to finish. The acting performances are overall very good as we get to witness a particularly balanced cast. The movie's final third gets quite intense and some of the viewers at the cinema were particularly scared. Light and sound techniques increase this intensity even further. The camera work is precise and focused and the special visual effects aren't overused and work particularly well.

However, this movie also has a few minor flaws. The excellent actors and actresses aren't given a script in which they can really show their immense talents. This film focuses too much on its sinister story rather than its promising characters. While some viewers at the cinema were actually scared, I didn't find the film terrifying at all as a horror movie enthusiast. The atmosphere is tense but there isn't one particularly scary scene that has stayed on my mind.

An important issue that deserves its own paragraph is the presence of racism in this film. I'm very familiar with Korean culture and cinema, have been following Korean movies closely for about two decades and have read several books on this subject as well, so people who might tell me that I don't understand some of the remarks or that I'm exaggerating things are wrong. Those are usually the kind of remarks that you get when criticizing Korean cinema. Believe me when I tell you that I think that Korean cinema has been the greatest in the world for the past two decades and that in ninety-nine out of one hundred cases I only have favourable things to say. This is why it's important to criticize things when they really matter as is the case here. Two elements have left a bitter taste in this film. First of all, the daughter of the Feng Shui master is studying in Germany and dating a local man. Instead of caring how this man treats his daughter, the only thing the master is worried about is that their children might have blue eyes. Besides the fact that blue eyes are truly beautiful, reducing future family members to one small physical detail is stereotypical racism at its worst. Another even worse element worth to be pointed out is the movie's particularly negative portrayal of Japanese culture. I'm aware that Japan has occupied Korea and committed atrocious crimes in the past but one has to eventually get over this and realize that such things happened eighty years ago when none of the characters in the movie was even alive. The film starts with a scene where a polite stewardess shyly speaks Japanese to one of the characters who rebuffs her aggressively by telling her proudly that she is Korean. Such exaggerated anger in relation to an innocent mistake seems excessive to me. That film also discusses and portrays some of the horrors the Japanese have committed in the past but these elements don't add anything to expand the depth of the plot. Such negative remarks just feel gratuitous, old-fashioned and resentful. Furthermore, the film's antagonist also turns out to be Japanese which is analyzed, discussed and shown on numerous occasions. This film attempts to show that the Korean shamans, mortician and master are courageous, determined and idealistic while the Japanese and their collaborators from the past are inherently evil. Such drastic decisions almost give this film the style of an obsolete propaganda film that might as well come from North Korea. Let me tell you that contemporary Japanese horror movies on the other side don't attempt to make any foreign ethnicities look dreadful. There are no evil buried American generals haunting poor Japanese babies. That is however exactly what you get in this film with a Japanese warrior tormenting Korean families for centuries. This movie would have been so much better if it had simply focused on an evil Korean warlord of the past as an antagonist rather than strategically dishonouring Japanese culture, history and people. The scriptwriters deserve nothing but shame for such an excessive portrayal of racism and don't even try to justify the unjustifiable.

Aside of that major flaw that deserves to be addressed, analyzed and discussed, Exhuma, originally known as Pamyo, is nonetheless an atmospheric, entertaining and intense supernatural horror movie that deserves more attention, recognition and respect. If you like this particular movie, make sure to watch other South Korean films with similar vibes that are executed even better such as The Wailing, I Saw the Devil and Memories of Murder. The underestimated recently released The Ghost Station that actually honours Japanese horror cinema also deserves your attention.

A very boring movie and it could have been better

[hrnehalatif · 4/10 · 29 April 2024]

Don't waste your time watching this movie..

I believe that everyone who saw the movie was based on the hype on social media , however it's a total waste of time.

The movie is very boring and it doesn't deserve the hype on it.

Both Do hyn and Go eun are amazing actors however the plot was a total mess.

It's totally disappointing and at the end of the movie i've started to question what did it just watch ?

I didn;t understand the idea of the ghost turning into a fireball !!

And they have taken it out of its grave by raw fish ? There are some scenes that are totally a mess and it was just filling scenes.

A good horror Korean DAN film

[shakyshakeshit · 7/10 · 6 May 2024]

As a horror film lover, this one didn't quite deliver the thrills I expected. However, I love the plot and overall atmosphere captivating from the beginning, keeping me on the edge of the seat. What struck me the most was the exceptional performances by the leader actors, Kim Go Eun and Lee Do Hyun. Especially KimGoEun's portrayal was incredibly convincing and left a lasting impressed. However, as the plot progressed, the suspenseful vibes waned a bit. For instance, I wished the scenes depicting the evil ghost's killings at the hotel were more chilling. All in all, I'd rate it as a 7-star horror movie. Give it a try if ur undecided on what to watch this Friday night.

I dont dare to see horror movie but this is awesome

[abcdefghijef · 10/10 · 16 March 2024]

Yes last nite we watched this movie with friends. It is a very good movie at the first half, also interesting story at the next half.

It looks like real, but feels like adventure than horror. Yes its scary, sometimes we close our eyes, but i think we must not close our eyes, missing some story plot.

From our friends perspective: The film "Exhuma" is also among the list of horror films recommended by Joko Anwar, an Indonesian horror director. He also revealed that this film delves into psychological horror rather than relying solely on jump scares or terrifying makeup.

Naturally, especially during the traditional process of soil excavation like tasting the soil, calming spirits with specific rituals, diverting spirits to make a "call from the grave," the horror ambiance is perfectly wrapped when the young shaman performs a ritual to transfer evil spirits onto an object accompanied by drum beats and music reminiscent of the Reog Ponorogo performance we often witness.

The casting in a film plays a crucial role. Contrasting with typical horror actors in Indonesia portrayed with natural faces resembling village folks without any makeup, combined with most scenes shot at night and an eerie soundtrack, it can create a more terrifying atmosphere than the storyline itself.

This movie a horror story with a cooler approach, where the use of makeup appears natural like a Korean beauty, and grave excavations often happen during daylight. It is believed that anything done after sunset brings about evil. This is evident when excavations are done in the evening, causing demons to rise and kill anyone they deem as enemies.

In one scene requiring the young shaman to perform a ritual of transferring evil spirits, his recitation of prayers, mantras, and chilling songs makes us shudder. Furthermore, His partner acting and charisma, appearing with tattoos all over his body, do not diminish his handsomeness.

After all, yes this movie worth to see.