Oldboy (2003)
- 8.241/10
- Drama, Thriller, Mystery
- 2003
- 2h:0m
- R
With no clue how he came to be imprisoned, drugged and tortured for 15 years, a desperate man seeks revenge on his captors.
Oldboy: A Gripping Tale of Revenge and Redemption
1. Introduction and Overview
Released in 2003, "Oldboy" is a South Korean neo-noir action thriller directed by Park Chan-wook. The film is based on the Japanese manga of the same name by Garon Tsuchiya and Nobuaki Minegishi. Known for its intense violence, intricate plot twists, and emotional depth, "Oldboy" has gained a cult following and critical acclaim worldwide.
2. Plot Summary
"Oldboy" follows the story of Oh Dae-su, a man who is inexplicably imprisoned in a hotel room for 15 years. Upon his sudden release, he embarks on a relentless quest for revenge against those responsible for his captivity. As Dae-su delves deeper into the mystery, he uncovers shocking truths about his past and must confront his own dark secrets.
3. Character Analysis
Oh Dae-su, portrayed by Choi Min-sik, is a complex and tormented protagonist driven by his thirst for vengeance. His transformation from a broken man to a determined avenger is compelling to watch. Lee Woo-jin, played by Yoo Ji-tae, serves as the enigmatic antagonist whose motives gradually come to light, adding layers to the narrative.
4. Directorial Style
Director Park Chan-wook's signature visual style is evident throughout "Oldboy." He employs dynamic camerawork, striking compositions, and vivid colors to create a visceral and immersive experience for the audience. The use of long takes and unconventional editing techniques enhances the film's tension and emotional impact.
5. Themes and Messages
"Oldboy" explores themes of revenge, redemption, and the consequences of obsession. The film delves into the dark corners of the human psyche, examining how trauma and betrayal can shape one's destiny. It also raises questions about morality, forgiveness, and the cyclical nature of violence.
6. Critical Reception
Upon its release, "Oldboy" received widespread critical acclaim for its bold storytelling, powerful performances, and innovative direction. The film won the Grand Prix at the Cannes Film Festival and solidified Park Chan-wook's reputation as a visionary filmmaker. Critics praised its uncompromising vision and emotional resonance.
7. Cultural Impact
"Oldboy" has had a significant cultural impact, inspiring numerous remakes, adaptations, and homages in various mediums. The film's iconic hallway fight scene, choreographed in a single take, has become legendary in the action genre. Its exploration of moral ambiguity and psychological trauma continues to resonate with audiences worldwide.
8. Where to Watch
"Oldboy" is available for streaming on platforms like Amazon Prime Video, Google Play Movies, and YouTube Movies. It is also included in various film collections and can be rented or purchased through online platforms.
9. Conclusion
"Oldboy" is a cinematic masterpiece that pushes the boundaries of storytelling and filmmaking. With its gripping narrative, unforgettable characters, and thought-provoking themes, the film remains a timeless classic that captivates audiences with its raw intensity and emotional depth.
Genres
Drama Thriller Mystery ActionCast
Choi Min-sik
- Character: Oh Dae-Su
Yoo Ji-tae
- Character: Lee Woo-jin
Kang Hye-jung
- Character: Mi-do
Kim Byeong-ok
- Character: Mr. Han
Ji Dae-han
- Character: No Joo-hwan
Oh Dal-su
- Character: Park Cheol-woong
Lee Seung-shin
- Character: Hypnotist
Yoon Jin-seo
- Character: Lee Soo-ah
Oh Tae-kyung
- Character: Young Dae-su
Yoo Yeon-seok
- Character: Young Woo-jin
Movie Details
- Director: Park Chan-wook
- Budget: $3,000,000
- Revenue: $17,500,000
- Status: Released
- Original Language: KO
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I’m sure that all of you can always spot a film with good acting, superb plot and great cinematography easily but when it comes to a thriller that possesses all those above quality, it would be such a rarity. OldBoy here, second installment from The Vengeance Trilogy directed by Park Chan-wook (Sympathy for Mr. Vengeance, OldBoy, Sympathy for Lady Vengeance) really have them all, good story, powerful acting and the most horrifying and clever end twist if not genius. In fact no matter how many times you see this, the twist would still be awesome. The theme of revenge here is taken to the next level, to its supremacy for it’s really carefully-planned. OldBoy has a mind-bending assortment of drama, thriller, romance and beautifully spiced up with sadistic plot, shocking elements, ultra violence and clever psychological twist. Imagine yourself captured, locked in a room for 15 years, not knowing why and who did it and when you finally escaped and thought it’s all over, you were wrong and here’s the punching line, the direct punch to your stomach. Min-sik Choi as Oh Dae su really acted well, he really got us carried away by dragging us into the mystery that surrounds his life, into the depression he’s been feeling and into the deep well of his curiosity. Once again, OldBoy is a way too remarkable, when “revenge” isn’t merely knife-chopping or gun-battling. Enough said.
This is definitely one of the films to see before you die. It's seat-squirmingly unsettling, shocking and very violent. It's a journey into a truly disturbed mind; a mind, which - like yours will be - is unable to cope with what it discovers. This film is brilliantly twisted. It has a thread of the most wonderful, blackest humour running through it, a sense of complete disorientation and enough plot twists and turns to sustain your interest. Not one of the best revenge thrillers I've seen - simply THE best!
Just about everyone I’d spoken to about this film recommended it to me. I watched this film with the original Korean-language soundtrack, with English subtitles. Oh Dae-su (Chi Min-sik) is a bit of a flirt (whether he is a womaniser is not made clear) with a wife and young child, who has turned two years old on the day we start the film. Dae-su is in a prison waiting room having insulted a woman he was flirting with. A friend comes and eventually gets him out, but while he’s making a call to his wife to explain he will be home soon, he is kidnapped. Incarcerated in a small room, with only a TV for company, he is fed and looked after, but not allowed his freedom. He unsuccessfully attempts suicide several times. He keeps himself fit by doing exercise programmes he sees on TV and he starts to dig his way out with chopsticks. He sees a TV report that shows he’s been framed for the murder of his wife. Fifteen years later, without a word of explanation, he is released. The rest of the film follows his attempts to find out why he was imprisoned, who did it, and where his daughter is. The film is frenetic, highly charged, and very emotional on several levels. It is also bloody in places, but Dae-su’s obsession for seeking revenge on whomsoever imprisoned him and on finding out where his daughter is drives this film along. There are psychological aspects to the film as well, and the film does eventually resolve itself – it is not one of those open-ended “I wonder who did it” type films. Follow the film through and you will get all the answers. I would recommend it, but I wouldn’t call it light entertainment.
This is not just a film you watch, it’s a film you experience. Oldboy is without question, one of the greatest revenge stories ever put to film. It has, in my opinion, the greatest villain of all time, smart, terrifying, and totally unforgettable. The movie is twisted, disturbing, and yet absolutely magnificent in its execution. It’s one of those movies you have to watch at least once in your life. Even after it ends, it sticks with you and you keep thinking about it. And the soundtrack is absolutely beautiful, it fits the mood perfectly and makes every scene hit even harder. If you haven’t seen it yet, you’re seriously missing out.