Expecting a cheery coming of age tale? Well, so was I. That isn't what this film is. At all. Period. It's grueling and sad and tells the tale of an unfair ruling on 4 boys caught in the wrong place at the wrong time. I won't get into much more detail than that, but I think it's necessary to warn unassuming viewers who go into it with the wrong mindset. This is no comedy. The story itself is well paced and explores the human instinct to survive, however necessary. To protect one's innocence, however necessary. What is morally right and wrong? Do you pursue the truth, even when it may lead to the worst outcome for yourself? Or do you abandon your pride for freedom? Lots of thought-provoking themes are found throughout the film, and for that alone I give the story a strong 9 out of 10. Acting and cast were also a strong point in this film. All of the leads surprised me with their powerful performances, especially that of Ji Soo. In many ways he was the one who carried this film. Will I re-watch this film? Probably not. Not because it wasn't a great film, simply because it's draining to sit through. Flipping from present to past throughout the course of the movie, you get a glimpse of the misfortune they will face from the very first scene... and it grows in intensity until the end. There is no chance to catch your breath because things go down hill and down hill fast. Overall, I do recommend this film. It was excellently made. But I caution you to go into it only with the intention that it's going to be an emotional ride...