Emergency Declaration (2022)

train to busan but on a plane?

Emergency Declaration is part political thriller and part disaster film, both of which are done good enough. Essentially it took it's time before moving into our main plot, which is good because it became easier seeing the different circumstances of our leads.

People in my local theater are either the most emotionless people in the world or weren't actually watching, I was jumping out my sit on the suspense scenes and crying on the sad ones.

It's a show of the human nature, how we react to situations that are life or death, and where true humanity stands out, that there are people out there willing to sacrifice themselves in the face of death. also how we should appreciate our loved ones, one moment they might be there but can be gone in an instant, we should make every moment count.

there's a whole bunch of political nonsense throughout that cuts off the suspense at times, especially prominent in the latter half of the film. it was good when we we're looking for where to land, desires of each country fighting but too much off it had me almost asleep.

this film when does good it's extremely good, but also when it does bad it's extremely bad.

This was an extremely stacked cast lineup with veterans Song Kang Ho and Lee Byung Hun to top stars Kim Nam Gil and Park Hae Joon, however nobody delivered a better performance than Im SIwan, more on this later.

(MINOR SPOILERS)
The film was a mirror of the COVID19 pandemic we are experiencing took to another, extreme level. it reflects how in the early stages, people that tested positive are divided and shunned by the mass, even blaming an entire race or continent for it, these moral ambiguities we're heavily present here.

Killing off our main antagonist less than half way into the film was gutsy but In a way made sense, but that extra angst knowing he'd still be alive along with the commotion in the latter half would have made this a much more suspenseful ride. despite the limited screen time and getting killed off, Im Siwan in his villain role was crazy good and terrifying, add that to his lovely features, it made the character soooo creepy.

Ending for me felt force and gave twists just for the sake for it, my tears during the farewell scenes felt like I was robbed off it and that cliche ending was the culprit.

(END OF SPOILER)


unfortunate how this ended so weak, could have easily been the best 2022 korean film. to answer my headline, though it has quite the similarities, I personally think the thrill and suspense of the 2 films are from different sources.

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so much pressure

I just finished the movie a little while ago and I'm still thinking about the characters.
I was so invested that my eyes were glued to the screen!! I felt tense, scared, and angry, so I'd say it's a good movie because it managed to convey such emotions to me.

The actors did a great job and it was the first time I saw Kim Nam-gil and Lee Byung-hun acting!

But some negative points I have are: Im Siwan's character died so quickly ? I wish he had more screen time. I felt that the ending was very rushed, they could have shown the reunion of the survivors with their families and the recovery of the infected people. Lastly, I don't know if that was the purpose, but certain parts of the soundtracks just ended abruptly, without that "fade out" so it seemed kind of strange...

anyway, it was a great movie! i recommend if you like tension

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2 hours and 20 minutes of suspense

I had this movie on my "to watch" list for quite some time, but I finally got around to watching it, and I thoroughly enjoyed every moment. Initially, I hesitated because I thought it might be too long for a plane hijacking movie, but I was pleasantly surprised by its depth and complexity.
The cast, as expected in Korean cinema, delivered stellar performances (Veterans never miss).
The first half of the movie hooks you with its mystery and detective work, while the second half delves into deeper emotional territory, prompting contemplation about how you would handle similar situations.
In summary, I highly recommend it; it's truly worth every minute.

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Now this is how you do a disaster movie!

The headline says it all. One of the best disaster movies in the entire game!

Emergency Declaration is an outstanding film that had me on the edge of my seat from start to finish. With a gripping storyline and exceptional performances by the cast, it's a must-see for any fan of suspenseful thrillers.It is well acted , well produced, screenplay to die for and pacing that is heartracingly sublime! I was a total sweating mess watching this and thats exactly what a disaster thriller should do!

On top of the thrills- it delves into complex moral dilemmas and the human psyche under extreme pressure. The movie does commentary and thought provocation searingly well and that is so amazing to pack in the high stakes of everything.

The visuals are striking, and the use of sound adds an extra layer of intensity to the viewing experience.The cast delivers outstanding performances across the board. Everyone is phenomenal and all convey the desperation,determination or greed of their characters brilliantly.

Overall - its a must watch. Truly a top contender in the disaster movie game because of its ability to create a palpable sense of urgency and emotional connection with the characters.

I can see this being a future cult classic of the genre.

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