Memories of Murder

there's no better indictment of national institutional failure than this frustrating, defeated clusterfuck, but there's something universal too in its doomed longing for epistemological comforts. consider the two perfect endings, with two tunnels: one is dark and inscrutable, but the second, more banal little tunnel is worse still, lit and revealed to hold nothing, no certainties and no catharsis. look deep into the suspects' eyes, and still they only reflect our own. "fuck, i don't know."

Unlike The Host, this one really struck a chord. Bong victoriously coalesces irreverent yet lucrative humor with the cardinal thesis of bereavement and cessation. He brings and carries this inept and dirty humor on his shoulders even in the most grim places. The authorities here are depicted as maladroit and infelicitous human beings, a subtle allusion and mention of the regime of South Korea which happened a long time ago. Impressive film.

The ending (to this true story) defies all expectations, as does the film's humor and its portrayal of the police as well-meaning but frustrated and inept. Haunting and hilarious, and riveting from the first frame to the last.

A great film on many levels. First, and foremost, it's a strong police investigation film, with an unconventional willingness to get dirty and a very human touch that brings both moving moments and amusing ones. The undertones, however, are what make the film come into it's own, with commentary on the investigative methods of the cops in the film against the backdrop of the waning days of South Korea's authoritarian regime.

Really reminded me a lot of zodiac, both in terms of plot, theme, and ending, except that I liked zodiac better. Still, this is a well made movie that's simultaneously intriguing and ultimately frustrating. Also, you wouldn't expect it, but this movie has some perfectly timed, fucking epic dropkicks.