Revoltingly Good: How ‘Revolver’ Redefines the Revenge Thriller!

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South Korean filmmakers stand out in creating compelling revenge movies perhaps more than any other cinematic culture. While the reason for this is complex and multifaceted, it could be attributed to deep-rooted sentiments stemming from historical events like the Japanese annexation of 1910 and the subsequent division of the country in 1953. Regardless of the cause, it’s clear that South Korean cinema has a strong tradition of revenge narratives, with Park Chan-wook’s “Vengeance Trilogy” being a notable highlight. Other films such as The Chaser, No Mercy, The Man from Nowhere, I Saw the Devil, Bedeviled, and many more showcase this trend. Recently, cinephiles can add another film to that list: the gripping revenge thriller, Revolver. This movie is not only engaging but also a testament to South Korea’s exceptional storytelling in the genre of revenge films.

Although the film Revolver does contain some intense and unpleasant scenes, it doesn’t delve into the same level of darkness and disturbance as many other movies in this genre. This sets Oh Seung-uk’s production apart as a refreshing choice among us, who are fans of gritty, morose revenge dramas filled with heavy ethical themes. What distinguishes Revolver from films like Mother and Sympathy for Mr. Vengeance, however, is its element of enjoyment or fun.

Western movies tend to draw inspiration from literature, while Eastern films often have a more painterly quality. This is one way to explain why Asian films may seem mysterious or different to those accustomed to Western storytelling techniques. If you’re not familiar with Asian cinema, it might be helpful to know that in advance. While some viewers might find movies like Revolver confusing at first because of its fast-paced narrative and lack of explicit exposition, it can become easier to understand once you get accustomed to its unique rhythm.

Ha Soo-young, ironically nicknamed for her lack of smiling, steps out from prison after serving a two-year sentence. Previously a police sergeant, she didn’t spend her time behind bars in tranquility; her bruises attest to this fact. She waits outside the prison for someone who fails to show up. Ha Soo-young was framed as a fall guy for a vast criminal network that encompassed high-ranking police officials, corporate executives, and numerous others. To maintain her silence, she was promised a luxury apartment worth $1.2 million, $700,000 in cash, and a comfortable position at Eastern Promise, a company whose name echoes the motifs of Revolver. However, upon completing her prison term, Soo-young finds herself alone with no one to greet her on the other side.

The basis for “Revolver” is as follows: Similar to a modern classic neo-noir like Point Blank, Revolver tells the tale of a criminal betrayed and abandoned, who embarks on a quest for revenge. In this instance, however, Soo-young, our protagonist, was previously a police officer and falsely admitted to a crime she didn’t commit. Factors such as financial gain and comfort drive her actions, but so does love; we witness Soo-young two years ago, involved in an illicit relationship with her police department superior, Lim Seok-yong (the talented Lee Jung-jae from Squid Game). Upon her release from prison, he is deceased, and there appears to be no one else capable of fulfilling the agreement. Consequently, Soo-young embarks on a hunt.

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I wholeheartedly admire Jeon Do-yeon’s exceptional portrayal of Soo-young in this film. Her acting prowess, which earned her the Best Actress accolade at Cannes for “Secret Sunshine,” shines once again. She masterfully crafts Soo-young into a remarkable, cool character that mirrors life’s hardships. At times, she appears desensitized to pain, only to be blazing with righteous anger in other instances.

In contrast to the typical action-packed heroes in revenge movies like Lady Snowblood, Kill Bill, Lady Vengeance, and Mad Max, Soo-young appears more authentic and down-to-earth. Unlike these characters, she doesn’t possess extraordinary martial arts skills that allow her to fend off numerous enemies. She is proficient with a baton, given a gun when needed, and no longer has patience for anyone who crosses her path. This combination of skills makes her lethal enough.

Apart from the stellar performances by the rest of the cast, Ji Chang-wook delivers an outstanding portrayal that takes audiences by surprise. He skillfully breathes life into a complex character – a drug-dependent, self-centered young man who shares a deep bond with the enigmatic leader of Eastern Promise. His performance is both captivating and chilling, reminiscent of Brad Pitt in “12 Monkeys”, Gary Oldman in “Léon: The Professional”, and Rami Malek in “No Time to Die”. In fact, “Revolver” boasts multiple antagonists, each unique and compellingly portrayed.

Lim Ji-yeon Is Astounding… I Promise

In the movie “Revolver,” while everyone delivers exceptional performances, it’s Lim Ji-yeon as Jeong Yoon-sun who truly shines and adds an extra layer of brilliance to the film. Portraying a bubbly, money-grubbing, attractive, yet lonely fast-talker with a blend of clumsiness and street wisdom, Ji-yeon has crafted an indelible character.

Yoon-sun is attracted to Soo-young, drawn in by her blunt honesty and self-reliance, but she also looks out for herself. The crime scene becomes intertwined with her life. She wants Soo-young to succeed, yet she desires to be on the winning side, unsure of who that might be. It’s a performance that strikes a perfect balance between being comically conflicted and authentic, never veering into absurdity. Ji-yeon’s portrayal perfectly complements “Revolver.

As a cinephile, I can’t help but be captivated by the film’s enchanting soundtrack – a creation of none other than Jo Yeong-wook, South Korea’s current maestro of movie music. His composition carries an air reminiscent of his groundbreaking work on “Oldboy,” and at times evokes Max Richter’s melody. It’s evident that Yeong-wook, alongside cinematographer Kang Guk-hyun, editor Kim Sang-bum, and the inimitable Jeon Do-yeon, have a knack for collaborating seamlessly with director Oh Seung-uk, a reunion of talents since their work on “The Shameless” in 2015.

Essentially, “Revolver” stands out as a contemporary masterpiece within the realm of revenge stories, appealing to audiences with its near-perfect execution, save for the occasional plot device that seems too convenient. The movie poses intriguing questions: in a world where personal promises hold little weight, how do ordinary people collaborate? Can someone succeed in our globally interconnected capitalist society, where self-interest and profit are the only constants, and all agreements can be easily discarded? Is the resolution to these challenges simply brute force, as symbolized by the titular revolver? This film is indeed a unique piece worth savoring.

You can now either rent or purchase “Revolver” from Well Go USA on various digital platforms like Apple TV, Fandango at Home, Viki, and Prime Video (through the link provided). Alternatively, you can acquire it on Blu-ray™ or DVD only through Amazon. For additional details and streaming options, click the link below.

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2025-04-08 15:05