The ‘Squid Game’ Creator Made a Chart-Topping Heist Movie in 2020

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  • Stealing Antiques Under Seoul in ‘Collectors’
  • Possible Sequel for ‘Collectors’?

The decision of Netflix in September 2019 significantly transformed its platform. To bolster its international content, the streaming service opted to adapt South Korean director, producer, and screenwriter Hwang Dong-hyuk’s dark tale involving a lethal competition. Named “Squid Game,” this nine-episode series debuted two years later to thunderous applause from both viewers and critics.

The narrative of a man struggling in life, who dived headfirst into an ominous adaptation of a kids’ game (and intrigue), gained massive attention and numerous prestigious accolades such as Primetime Emmys and Golden Globes. Despite Netflix having a track record for ending beloved series, it was evident that this suspenseful series wasn’t going to be taken off the air anytime soon. Just like its predecessor, the recently debuted second season has managed to enthrall viewers – however, don’t let it deceive you too much. It’s surprising to know that the mind behind Squid Game has been a renowned figure in South Korean filmmaking since 2000.

Over the initial five years, I immersed myself primarily in the creation of short films. However, it was in 2007 that my real journey to prominence began with a drama titled “My Father.” This poignant story revolved around a soldier uncovering his father’s fate as a death row prisoner. Since then, I’ve delved into various genres, from crime and historical dramas to even the lighter tones of comedy dramas, penning and directing each unique blend. Finally, in 2020, I took on the exciting role of producer for a film that masterfully combined the thrilling heist elements reminiscent of the Ocean’s Franchise with the pulse-pounding action and adventure akin to Indiana Jones.

The plot of “Collectors” is worlds apart from what “Squid Game” presents, with the exception that it was also filmed in South Korea. Starring Lee Je-hoon and Shin Hye-sun in remarkable performances, “Collectors” is essentially a movie about a daring heist, set right in the heart of Seoul. If you didn’t know beforehand that “Collectors” had any connection to “Squid Game”, you wouldn’t guess it from watching the film – it just highlights the versatility of director Dong-hyuk.

Stealing Antiques Under Seoul in ‘Collectors’

Beyond the noticeable distinction in mood, Je-hoon’s captivating portrayal of Kang Dong-goo immerses viewers deeply into the story. A notorious thief and dealer of antiques named Sang-gil has recruited him to retrieve an ancient sword known as the Joseon Excalibur, hidden within the Seolleung Royal Tomb. Despite his expertise in pilfering valuable relics from historical sites, he finds it necessary to collaborate with Dr. Jones, a tomb specialist (portrayed by Jo Woo-jin) and a man famously known as Shovel Leg (played by Im Won-hee), due to his remarkable digging skills.

As a movie enthusiast diving into this Korean production for the first time, these three actors effortlessly infuse the film with an infectious lightness and amusement that immediately captivates you. Their chemistry is authentic, creating a sense of comfort and security that’s hard to resist. They power through adversities, be it treacherous gangsters or pesky cops, their unyielding spirit making every challenge seem surmountable.

In the film, the protagonist engages in a series of heists prior to the main storyline, which some viewers might find enhances the Ocean’s films experience. Although these scenes don’t significantly contribute to the overall plot, they provide more insight into the character of Sang-gil (portrayed by Song Young-chan). These sequences also deepen the relationship between Sang-gil and Dong-goo, which is initially confusing but ultimately proves to be a crucial element in the story. The movie’s opening scene may seem enigmatic at first, but the plot twist ties it all together, making for an exhilarating cinematic experience reminiscent of Indiana Jones blended with South Korean drama.

Possible Sequel for ‘Collectors’?

In terms of intrigue, collectors find themselves on the edge of their seats with Shin Hye-sun’s character, Yoon Se-hee. As Sang-gil’s executive assistant and the curator arranging meetings between the affluent art collector and Dong-goo, she consistently sets Sang-gil’s schemes in motion, shaping each day for him. This pattern continues throughout the movie, even during Sang-gil’s most challenging moments. However, audiences are left guessing when Se-hee appears to collaborate with Dong-goo secretly on occasion. By the end of the film, her allegiance remains unclear, leaving room for speculation and perhaps a sequel. Similar to how Squid Game builds suspense through cliffhangers at the end of each episode, Collectors follows suit — ending with an identical scene!

Dong-hyuk’s 13th movie remained number one at the Korean box office for three consecutive weeks, which is quite an achievement. Notably, upon its release, “Collector” was nominated for several film events, such as the Korean Film Festival in Australia and the London Korean Film Festival. Regrettably, it didn’t win any awards. Nevertheless, this movie remains a significant contribution to the heist genre. If you manage to find it online (it’s nearly as elusive as “The Excalibur of Joseon”!), watching “Collector” is definitely recommended.

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2025-01-06 03:32