Netflix
South Korea has been delivering unfiltered, mind-blowing cinema and television productions filled with intense violence and unexpected plot twists. “Squid Game,” which just launched its second season, is a prime example of this. A standout actor from the show, Gong Yoo, previously demonstrated his acting prowess in another South Korean masterpiece.
Gong’s role in “Squid Game” is that of the Recruiter, a mysterious and stylish figure who tempts potential participants into the game by challenging them to a round of ddakji. The Recruiter’s charismatic personality and approachable nature allow his character to persuade naive debt-ridden individuals to take a chance, first at ddakji, and then at the enigmatic high-stake game.
Gong’s captivating charm in “Train to Busan” compels you to support Seok Woo, a divorced workaholic who attempts to flee a zombie outbreak with his young daughter, Su-an. While the zombie genre has seen a variety of interpretations, from the emotionally charged “The Last of Us” to the satirical “Shaun of the Dead,” “Train to Busan” offers a unique experience.
Train to Busan: A Rollercoaster of Horror
Well Go USA Entertainment
“Train to Busan” stands out among zombie movies due to its ceaseless intensity. Similar to the unstoppable train the characters find themselves trapped on, the movie maintains a relentless momentum.
The plot revolves around an infected woman who boards a fast-moving train filled with unsuspecting passengers who subsequently have to avoid the increasing number of zombies. The frenzied hand-held camera shots and quick editing draw the audience into this horrifying scenario from which there appears to be no escape. The zombies’ frightening speed and insatiable hunger, coupled with the confined space of the train, result in a series of heart-pounding sequences.
Despite the chaos, “Train to Busan” never loses sight of the emotional toll of becoming a zombie. The film frequently showcases the pain experienced by fathers, daughters, spouses, friends, and families as their loved ones transform into these mindless beings. “Train to Busan” effectively balances intense action with a strong emotional narrative, culminating in a profoundly moving climax. Gong Yoo’s performance as the Recruiter in “Squid Game,” although important, is less prominent, but “Train to Busan” allows him to fully display his acting skills.
Credit: www.slashfilm.com
