Oldboy

(2003) ****

What would you do if you tied one on and woke up locked in a strange place? Scream? Cry? Pound your fists? Now imagine being locked up in that place for 15 years and never knowing who is keeping you or why. The only thing you know is that your spouse has been murdered and you've been set up to take the fall for it. Then suddenly one day you're released. Would you just let it go and live your life? No way! You'd spend every ounce of energy trying to figure out who took your life away from you and make that mother fucker pay! That's exactly what happens to Oh Dae-Su. While he is locked up he spends the bulk of his time trying to break out and getting buff. Once he is released he is an unstoppable machine inflicting damage on anyone who tries to get in his way. He meets a sympathetic sushi chef named Mi-do. She takes him in and agrees to help him find some answers. The truth unravels in a twisted tale from his past that is guaranteed to shock and disgust.

Am I chomping on a live octopus? Why yes I certainly am.

Yes, I said shock and disgust. Unfortunately I was watching this with my stepson so the shock and disgust was accompanied by uncomfortable and embarrassed. Still, this movie kicks ass. Be prepared to cringe on more than one occasion. JPX, the violence is superb. The plot is intelligent and complex. What a wonderful surprise to find this gem. Getting in my Asian fix for the season, so glad it started off with a good one.