Definitely Lives up to the Hype!

Rating: 10/10 (9 February 2020)

Oldboy by Park Chanwook is an amazing movie. The story it tells is horrifying and powerful.
Our main character is imprisoned for 15 years and does not know why. The way his captivity is shot was down very well and seemed to be very realistic. The sense of time is also built up with his physical transformation by sliming down and the calluses on his knuckles staying consistent throughout the film.
Once released the chase begins to find out who imprisoned him and why. The reason is so incredibly messed up, and Lee Woojin's refusal to admit even the slightest bit of responsibility he had in his sisters death is sad but realistic.
There's a lot to love about this film and it's a shame that the Americanized "remake" did it such a disservice. It was clear from interviews that Spike Lee had no desire to do it which really shows in the little that I've seen of that version.
But this original cannot come highly recommend enough. It is a classic, and should be watched by those looking to expand their watchlists for "good" films.