The Chaser is a 2008 Korean film directed by Na Hong-jin, who also co-wrote the screenplay with Shinho Lee and Hong Won-chan. The movie stars Kim Yoon-seok as Eom Joong-ho, a former detective turned profiler who now operates a brothel. Despite being successful, Joong-ho is plagued by the disappearance of some of his prostitutes. When one of his girls goes missing, he becomes suspicious of her last client, Je Yeong-min, played by Ha Jung-woo.
The plot of the movie is inspired by the true story of Yoo Young-chul, a Korean serial killer, cannibal, and sexual predator. The Chaser is a gripping and intense thriller that has been highly praised by critics and audiences alike. Let’s dive deeper into the movie’s plot and review.
Storyline
Joong-ho is a former detective-turned-pimp who has a complicated financial situation. He becomes more worried when some of his ladies disappear without a trace. One night, his brothel is visited by a customer named Yeong-min. Even though Joong-ho remains suspicious of him, he sends Min-jin to entertain him. As it turns out, Yeong-min is a psychopath who confesses to his crimes.
Joong-ho is finally able to track him down, but he is too late. He discovers Yeong-min in a bloodstained outfit, and they both get caught by the police. At the police station, Yeong-min confesses to murdering nine people, but the police don’t believe him since they lack enough evidence. Yeong-min also mentions that Mi-jin is still alive, but in critical condition.
After the events, Joong-ho visits Mi-jin’s apartment and brings along his daughter, Eun-ji, to live with him. In an attempt to uncover Yeong-min’s background, Joong-ho and Eun-ji visit his hometown to find out who he really is.
Movie Review
The Chaser is a movie that grips you from the start and doesn’t let go until the credits roll. The film’s screenplay is one of its standout features, keeping the audience engaged and on the edge of their seats. Na Hong-jin’s directing is also impressive, keeping the tension and pace of the movie high throughout.
The acting in The Chaser is superb, with Kim Yoon-seok and Ha Jung-woo delivering noteworthy performances in their roles. The child actress Kim Yoo-jung is also impressive as Eun-ji. The film is not just a thriller, but it also has a blend of comedy, drama, and action, making it a well-rounded production.
Na Hong-jin’s debut film is well-crafted, with impressive dialogue, camera movements, and soundscape. The film’s violent approach is sharp and at times, quite complicated to follow. The movie’s ending is sufficiently dramatic and leaves its audience awestruck.
In conclusion, The Chaser is an exhilarating thriller that is guaranteed to give you an adrenaline rush. The film offers a captivating story, superb acting, and directing that delivers a memorable cinematic experience. If you’re a fan of South Korean thrillers or just love a good suspenseful movie, The Chaser is not one to miss.
