TRAIN TO BUSAN: It’s
more than a zombie movie!
I am
not a big fan of Korean movies but I was intrigued by several social media
posts and shout-outs regarding the newly-released Korean film “Train to Busan”.
My curiosity did not fail me as I had a great time and numerous screams inside the cinema.
Yeon Sang –ho’s “Train
to Busan” is by far the most entertaining zombie movie I’ve seen in recent
years.
The story begins with
a single-dad fund manager Seok Woo (Gong
Yoo) accompanying his daughter Soo- an (Soo-An Kim) to a train ride going to Busan. Soo-an has not
seen her mother for quite some time. She is so eager to be with her mom. Seok
Woo gives in to his daughter’s request to make up for her
birthday. Unknown to both, the morning
of the trip would be life changing. It’s the same morning that Korea has
started experiencing a zombie outbreak. Inside the train are several passengers
from different walks of life.
Unfortunately before the train leaves, an infected young woman manages
to sneak inside. This is when the catastrophe started.
The director is very successful in his narrative and camera
shots in creating intense thrill, panic and scare. It’s commendable that the
scenes are brilliantly staged as tension elevates as the film progresses. It’s
noteworthy that even with a very limited setting, the film is able to maximize
it to sustain the shock and pump, hence
no lull moments in any part of the film.
The audience can’t help but scream on top of their lungs as lead actors
fight for their lives against the deadly zombies. The lead actors portray their roles to a T.
Their characters are relatable and anchored with distinct motivation to survive.
Moviegoers can feel their great fear, pain and grief. Thumbs up to Gong Yoo for
his strong delineation of his role as a workaholic father who will do
everything to save her daughter. Applause to child actress Soo-an for her
sincere and heart-felt portrayal of a neglected daughter.
The characterizations
are well defined. Apart from the father and daughter duo, there’s the
over-confident fighter cum expectant father and his pregnant wife. There’s the
high school athlete and his secret admirer. There’s the elderly sisters and who would not
forget the selfish and obnoxious corporate official.
Film editing is precise; sound design is seamless as it
creates the apt mood of each scene.
Train to Busan is not
just an ordinary take of a zombie movie. It’s clearly more than that. It depicts
how human beings will react facing a tragic disaster. It’s value driven. It shows
human frailties and virtues during a debacle. In the end, the movie proves that
Love, Sacrifice and Hope will prevail amidst all the challenges.
My rating: 10/10
My rating: 10/10
