JSA: Joint Security Area

The decision to structure the film largely around the investigator doesn't really pay off (really, she's superfluous), but every minute the soldiers are onscreen is riveting. Humanist to the point where it's nearly apolitical (though not quite), it's a warm, sad reminder of the tragedy of dehumanization.

JSA is a bizarro world political "what if" pitting the military and cultural clash of South Korea and North Korea together. Even though there's not much plausibility in the story it still sets up an intriguing mystery and runs with it. Unfortunately there's piss poor English language acting in this by what looks like part time Euro porn actors but overall it's a solid drama with an insightful look at the conflicted emotions between two "brother" countries forced to stand off against each other.

This is an absolutely great film, albeit hampered by some truly awful English language acting. The scenario is not very likely, but unless that bugs you for some reason, you are going to enjoy this. The feel and atmosphere of the film are fantastic, from the shimmering, breezy tall grass of the DMZ at night to the likable and hilarious banter between the four friends, and the film certainly packs a blunt and abrupt emotional punch. Highly recommended.

The English-speaking parts were cringe-inducing, and I found myself feeling like I wasn't quite following the story for a while. Then the flashbacks started, and I was sold. One of the most touching films I've ever seen--the more they showed of the friendship, the more heart-breaking it became to watch--and definitive proof that Chan-wook Park has amazing ideas and endless talent. Instant favourite.

A beautiful story of friendship disguised as a DMZ thriller. Some rough edges which is to be expected considering SK cinema was still finding its footing relatively speaking. The film it's most similar to is A Few Good Men oddly enough. Lee Byung-Hun and Song Kang-ho are both excellent and there are clear flashes of the style that Park Chan-wook would go on to refine to perfection later in his career. Chop out all the English dialogue and trim the framing device and you've got a masterpiece.