Bleak Night (2011)

This film was apparently a thesis project for the director from film school, and all I have to say, is that I am quite impressed.

Bleak Night can be uncomfortable at times because it addresses issues like bullying, friendship (in a high school setting), the power (both good and bad) of words, and all the angst and insecurities that come along with being a teenager.

The story is told through a series of flashbacks, which takes some getting used to. The camera work is interesting, as a lot of the shots seem to be hand-held and the color palette of the film is quite gray and drab.

I was completely mesmerized by Lee Je Hoon in this film. Every time he came on screen, my eyes were glued to him. He was definitely the highlight of this film in terms of acting, even if his character isn't necessarily the most likable. Overall, the acting of the cast in this drama is on the better end of the spectrum. All the characters are well portrayed.

My only two gripes with the film: One, there is no explanation of the main character's relationship with his parents and there is a lack of a clear cut ending that satisfied me.

Still, a highly recommended film that shows the darker side of teenage friendships and one of the best South Korean films of the year 2010.

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Despite having to get used to it, I really enjoyed the non-chronological style of storytelling adopted by the movie. After all, our memories are never recalled in chronological order, even though our lives may be lived that way. The story is not laid out neatly for you, but the trajectories of the friendships are clear enough to the viewer by the end of the movie.

The ending is given to you right at the start of the movie, and it's certainly not a happy one. But it sets the stage for the viewer to fill in the blanks. The music is bare bones - appropriate for the bleak tone of the film (no pun intended). The colour palette of the movie and scenery also serves to set the mood for the movie.

Lee Je Hoon is thrilling as the protagonist, swinging from sincere and heartfelt, to threatening and fearsome.

A heartwrenching but rewarding watch.

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