Escape (2024)

that sub plot is most definitely gay

I know that there is a lot of controversy when it comes to North Korean stories being told by South Koreans, but as someone who isn't Korean at all I can't comment on it. With every twist and turn I was able to stay surprised (as long as I was able to hold up my suspension of belief). Like any movie that involves guns there are scenes where people don't shoot when they could've brought someone down, but once you get to the end you sort of understand why. I didn't look at the casting beyond the two leads so I was very surprised with how many well know actors there were. With such a great cast of course the acting was good and I have no complaints. I really enjoyed the soundtrack especially the inclusion of zionT's song. I had not heard it before watching but it was a very impactful addition. I can see myself watching this again once it goes to streaming, but I highly recommend seeing it in theaters if you have the chance. I would recommend seeing this.

When it comes to the *potentially* queer subplot, I don't care what the director says. "The Bastard I Loved" says it all. My thoughts were summed up really well by an article on the IndieWire by David Opie and I recommend giving that a read if you are interested.

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Must-watch -- esp. on the big screen

As a fan of both of the lead actors, I had high expectations for this film, especially given that Lee Je-Hoon and Koo Kyo Hwan felt so confident in it that they jokingly offered to refund anyone who did not feel entertained, or like they got their money's worth (unless you purchased an IMAX ticket, of course). Despite my high expectations, I was not let down.

The film was thrilling. The story was well written, well-executed, and (importantly) well produced. The trailer does a great job of giving you a sense of the pacing for the story. It is an action-packed thriller, with twists and turns. While the story is mostly linear, it also relies on viewers understanding some subtext (e.g. the pre-established & hierarchical, but amicable relationship between the leads, and the changes in beliefs), it is well acted.

This movie is a GREAT watch and is *worthy* of watching on the big screen.

I'd venture as far as to say that it's the best movie I've seen all year. I'll be surprised (and disappointed) if Je-Hoon or Kyo Hwan don't win any awards for the film. As my biggest critique is that the end felt a bit rushed; nonetheless, I really enjoyed the watch, and I felt like I was still rooting for all the characters in the end.

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