Park Chan-wook’s genre-blending critique of the modern-day job market starts with a relatable hook — a man is laid off his job and needs to find a way to support his family — but in the director’s typical fashion, the film soon escalates into uncontrollable madness, filled with dark humor and macabre. Lee Byung-hun gives the best performance of his career as a man faced with a seemingly impossible set of decisions as he loses the comforts of his life, and the ability to say he and his family are well off thanks to him.
The film stands out due to its blend between genres and tones, and the sheer unpredictability of the lengths its lead character is willing to go. Park’s direction is at some of its strongest in scenes that combine tension, silliness, and disgust. The movie’s satire is irresistible and the consequences, or lack of, leave a lot to think about in an ending that’s bizarre yet mature, even for the director’s standards.
Rating: ★★★★½
Review by: Gal Balaban