Latest news with #TheWailing
Korea Herald
a day ago
- Entertainment
- Korea Herald
Korean horror films tap everyday anxieties for spine-chilling thrills
Summer's crop of domestic frights trades supernatural scares for all-too-familiar urban nightmares Summer in South Korea traditionally means one thing: audiences flocking to darkened theaters for a good scare. It's a peculiar cultural ritual where horror films offer an icy jolt to counter the sweltering heat — a shiver down the spine in place of a cool breeze. But this year's slate of Korean horror marks a departure from the genre's usual paranormal suspects. Gone are the vengeful spirits and timeworn curses that once haunted screens. Instead, filmmakers are leaning into the anxieties of modern city life, spinning terror from the everyday frustrations that haunt urban dwellers. These films suggest that in a country as densely populated and tightly packed as South Korea, the real horrors might not be otherworldly — they might just be the people around you. Leading the charge is "Noise," opening June 25. Already a buzzed-about title on last year's international festival circuit, including Sitges and Fantasia, the film zeroes in on one of Korea's most maddening urban grievances: the relentless, brain-rattling thuds from upstairs neighbors. Director Kim Soo-jin transforms this all-too-familiar nuisance into a mounting sense of claustrophobic dread, turning domestic discomfort into a full-blown horror show. In a country where more than two-thirds of the population lives in apartment complexes, inter-floor noise complaints are no laughing matter — they've sparked violent altercations, stabbings and arson attacks, some fatal. The film roots its horror in this simmering tension, following the perspective of a hearing-impaired woman (played by Lee Sun-bin) who's searching for her missing sister. Her investigation leads her into a labyrinthine high-rise where every creak, shuffle and muffled knock feels like a threat, and even silence becomes suspicious. Backing the film's psychological horror is a razor-sharp soundscape designed by the veteran audio engineer behind "The Wailing" (2016) and "Gonjiam: Haunted Asylum" (2018). From the stickiness of tape being peeled to the hair-raising scratch of nails on wallpaper, each sound is fine-tuned to shred nerves. Netflix joins the fray on July 18 with "Wall to Wall," another thriller that draws on noise-fueled paranoia. It's one of seven original Korean films the streaming juggernaut is rolling out this year — and the lone horror entry — part of its broader push into the Korean film industry at a time when local theaters are reeling from record-low attendance. Kang Ha-neul, a leading man known for his range across romance and thrillers, plays an everyman who bets everything — savings, pension, even family property — to secure a modest apartment in Seoul. But his dream home quickly devolves into a psychological minefield as neighbors turn hostile and cryptic sounds pierce the thin walls. Apart from the scares, the film promises a timely commentary on South Korea's ruthless housing market and the emotional toll of securing — and keeping — a piece of it. (Fittingly, the Korean title "84 Square Meters" refers to the standard size of a middle-class unit here.) Rounding out the lineup is "Ghost Train," which premiered at last year's Busan International Film Festival. The anthology turns Korea's ubiquitous subway system — the daily artery for millions of commuters — into a haunted maze of uncanny encounters. Despite the title, the horror here is grounded in the all-too-familiar: drunken passengers, flickering platform lights and vending machines that seem just a little too creepy. Joo Hyun-young, best known for her comedic skits on "SNL Korea," makes her feature film debut as a clout-chasing YouTuber hunting for viral horror content at a notoriously cursed station. The film opens in local theaters on July 9.
Daily Record
6 days ago
- Entertainment
- Daily Record
Horror film fans say 'haunting' movie is 'one of the best' they've ever seen
The Wailing is a Korean horror movie that has been dubbed one of the best in the genre by fans who claimed it "stayed with them" long after the credits had rolled Fans claim this spine-chilling horror film is one that "stays with you" long after the credits roll, and its box office success certainly attests to that. The Wailing, a Korean horror flick, revolves around a policeman probing a series of peculiar deaths and sudden illnesses in a secluded town. The strange epidemic has led villagers to lose their sanity, murder their loved ones, and now, his own daughter is among the possessed. A review on Rotten Tomatoes says: "Puts all other movies claiming to be 'enigmatic horror' to shame. Every moment is carefully constructed, and yet you are never quite sure what you are looking at or where things stand. The last 20 minutes or so contain a series of reversals and twists so stunning that you won't recover for days." Upon hearing rumours that a Japanese man residing in the remote mountains could be the malevolent spirit behind the chaos, Jong-Goo decides to confront him. They stumble upon eerie pictures of the outbreak's victims plastered across his walls and a guard dog barring them from proceeding further until the sinister man appears. As his daughter's condition deteriorates, Jong-Goo pleads with the man to leave their village permanently, but his response is a dead goat hanging by their gate. When his daughter subsequently murders their neighbour, Jong-Goo is left pondering the extent of the evil spirit's ruthlessness and how he can possibly put an end to this nightmare, reports the Mirror US. This film will linger in your mind long after the credits have rolled. It's easily one of the most memorable and haunting horror films I've ever seen and well worth the lengthy runtime. "Another viewer wrote: "One of the greatest horror films I've ever seen. It's so original and stylish and amazingly executed with the writing, acting, and camera work. And the ending is devastating. Absolute must-see!". Following its release in 2016, The Wailing garnered widespread praise from critics, who hailed the film as "imaginative" and "unsettling." It proceeded to scoop numerous awards in Korean film categories before making its mark on Hollywood. Nearly a decade since its debut, the horror flick boasts an impressive 99% score on Rotten Tomatoes, setting a new standard for Korean horror. Much of this success can be attributed to its stellar cast, which includes Chun Woo-Hee, Hwang Jung-min and Kwak Do-won in the lead role of the police officer. "Beautiful scenery, chilling atmosphere, and gave me chills, especially the ending, which was one of the best I have ever seen in a horror movie. Well done." For those seeking their next fright, The Wailing is currently available to stream on Amazon Prime.
Korea Herald
03-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Korea Herald
Ma Dong-seok's 'Holy Night: Demon Hunters' to screen at Shanghai film fest
Supernatural action flick joins international lineup at China's premier cinema event Actor-producer Ma Dong-seok's occult action film "Holy Night: Demon Hunters" has been selected for screening at the 27th Shanghai International Film Festival's Midnight Fantasy section, distributor Lotte Entertainment announced Tuesday. One of China's major cinema events, the Shanghai International Film Festival is the only Chinese festival accredited by the International Federation of Film Producers Associations. "The Wailing" (2016), "Gonjiam: Haunted Asylum" (2018), "The Roundup: Punishment" (2024) and "Exhuma" (2024) are among Korean films that previously screened in the non-competitive Midnight Fantasy section, which mainly showcases international genre cinema. This year's festival runs June 13-22. "Holy Night: Demon Hunters" follows a trio of supernatural investigators combating demonic forces. Ma plays Bau, a fighter with superhuman strength, alongside Girls' Generation member Seohyun as exorcist Sharon, and David Lee as their tech-savvy sidekick Kim Gun. The cast also includes Kyung Soo-jin and Jung Ji-so as sisters swept into the fray. Ma, also known as Don Lee, produced the film, developing the project as part of a broader genre franchise. A prequel web comic, "Holy Night: The Zero," currently runs on Naver Webtoon. The film has drawn 777,323 admissions in South Korea since its April 30 release, falling short of its reported 2 million breakeven threshold. The film is available on local streaming platforms Coupang Play and Wavve in addition to Apple TV.
Korea Herald
19-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Korea Herald
Submissions open for Mise-en-scene Short Film Festival
Korea's premier short film fest returns after four-year hiatus, revamps program with homage to landmark Korean films The Mise-en-scene Short Film Festival is accepting submissions through June 19. Filmmakers can submit works under 30 minutes, completed after Jan. 1, 2024, through the festival's online portal. Applicants must select one of five genres: social drama, romance/melodrama, comedy, horror/fantasy, or action/thriller. Finalists will be announced in September following preliminary and final jury screenings. The October event marks the festival's arrival after a four-year hiatus. Founded in 2002, MSFF suspended operations after its 20th edition in 2021. Long seen as a springboard for rising filmmakers, the festival has helped launch the careers of industry names like Na Hong-jin ("The Wailing"), Jang Jae-hyun ("Exhuma"), Yoon Jong-bin ("The Spy Gone North," "The Match") and Um Tae-hwa ("Concrete Utopia"). Now in its 21st edition, the festival is organized by film magazine Cine21 with Naver stepping in as the new main sponsor, replacing previous backer Amorepacific. For this edition, MSFF has revamped its section titles, replacing references to international cinema with nods to acclaimed Korean genre films. The social drama section has been renamed 'Take Care of My Cat,' while romance is now 'Jealousy Is My Middle Name,' comedy 'Conduct Zero,' horror/fantasy 'Epitaph' and action/thriller 'Nowhere to Hide.' "We've moved from foreign classics to Korean films of the 2000s that inspired the current generation of filmmakers," the organizers said. A new executive committee of seven filmmakers is overseeing the festival: Jang Jae-hyun, Han Jun-hee, Yoon Ga-eun, Um Tae-hwa, Lee Sang-geun, Yi Ok-seop and Cho Sung-hee.
Tom's Guide
07-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Tom's Guide
7 best new to Hulu movies with 90% or higher on Rotten Tomatoes
Hulu continues to deliver when it comes to curating a solid lineup of high-quality movies. Each month, the streaming service adds a batch of critically praised titles to its library, making it a go-to destination for movie fans looking for something that's both fresh and acclaimed. It's part of why we consistently rank Hulu as one of the best streaming services available. May 2025 is no exception. We've scanned the incoming titles and zeroed in on the ones that have earned serious praise — specifically those with a 90% or higher on Rotten Tomatoes. You may like From a Korean crime thriller that deserves more attention to one of the highest-rated 'Mission: Impossible' flicks (and a couple of genre gems you might've missed), here are seven movies new to Hulu in May 2025 that are absolutely worth your time. The Wailing Official Trailer 1 (2016) - Korean Thriller HD - YouTube Watch On Critically acclaimed for its atmospheric storytelling and intricate plot, 'The Wailing' stands out as a compelling exploration of human vulnerability in the face of incomprehensible forces. This Korean dark thriller set takes place in a remote village where a series of mysterious murders and illnesses begin to plague the community. The events coincide with the arrival of a suspicious Japanese man, leading to growing fear and suspicion among the villagers. Police officer Jong-goo (Kwak Do-won) investigates the incidents and soon discovers that his own daughter is exhibiting strange behavior. In desperation, he turns to a local shaman for help, but as the situation escalates, Jong-goo is forced to confront the possibility that something far more sinister is at play. Get instant access to breaking news, the hottest reviews, great deals and helpful tips. Rotten Tomatoes score: 99% Watch it now on Hulu The Insider (1999) Trailer #1 - YouTube Watch On 'The Insider' is a gripping drama based on real events, directed by Michael Mann and starring Russell Crowe and Al Pacino. Jeffrey Wigand (Crowe) is a former tobacco executive who becomes a whistleblower. After being fired from his high-paying job at a major tobacco company, Wigand reveals to the world the industry's knowledge of the harmful effects of smoking and its deliberate efforts to manipulate nicotine levels in cigarettes to make them more addictive. Wigand's decision to speak out puts him and his family in serious danger. Lowell Bergman (Pacino), a producer for the investigative news program 60 Minutes, convinces Wigand to go public with his story, despite the immense personal and professional risks involved. Rotten Tomatoes score: 96% Watch it now on Hulu 'Spy' (2015) Spy Official Trailer #1 (2015) - Melissa McCarthy, Rose Byrne Comedy HD - YouTube Watch On If you're in the mood for a comedy flick with some explosive action, 'Spy' is the one to watch this month. It follows Susan Cooper (Melissa McCarthy), a mild-mannered CIA analyst who works behind a desk, providing intel and support to field agents. When her partner, Bradley Fine (Jude Law), is killed during a mission, and another top agent is compromised, Susan volunteers to go undercover and take on a high-stakes mission herself. Her task is to track down a dangerous arms dealer, Rayna Boyanov (Rose Byrne), who has sold a nuclear weapon and threatens global security. Despite being inexperienced in the field, Susan's journey is full of mishaps, unexpected disguises, and hilarious encounters, as she navigates through a world of spies and dangerous criminals. Rotten Tomatoes score: 95% Watch it now on Hulu 'Decision to Leave' (2022) Decision to Leave Trailer #1 (2022) - YouTube Watch On 'Decision to Leave' earned plenty of praise for its storytelling and compelling central performances, earning Park Chan-wook the Best Director award at the 2022 Cannes Film Festival. Detective Jang Hae-jun (Park Hae-il) is an insomniac investigator in Busan, who is assigned to the case of a retired immigration officer found dead at the foot of a mountain. His investigation leads him to the deceased's enigmatic wife, Song Seo-rae (Tang Wei), a Chinese immigrant working as a caretaker for the elderly. Despite initial suspicions due to her calm demeanor and suspicious injuries, Hae-jun becomes increasingly captivated by Seo-rae, blurring the lines between professional duty and personal obsession. Rotten Tomatoes score: 94% Watch it now on Hulu 'Mission: Impossible – Rogue Nation' (2015) Mission: Impossible – Rogue Nation (2015) | Official Trailer | Paramount Pictures UK - YouTube Watch On Hulu has become the ultimate destination for 'Mission: Impossible' fans, as it now has every movie in the franchise (except for 'Dead Reckoning'), making it the perfect time for a marathon before 'The Final Reckoning' hits theaters this month. Among the standout movies in the series is 'Rogue Nation,' widely regarded as one of the best. In this fifth installment, Ethan Hunt (Tom Cruise), a highly skilled IMF (Impossible Mission Force) agent, is on a mission to take down the Syndicate, a network of operatives who are as skilled and ruthless as the IMF itself. When the IMF is disbanded by the U.S. government and labeled as an illegal organization, Hunt is forced to work without official support. He teams up with a British agent, Ilsa Faust (played by Rebecca Ferguson), whose true allegiance remains unclear. Rotten Tomatoes score: 94% Watch it on Hulu starting May 15 'Attack the Block' (2011) 'Attack the Block' is a British sci-fi comedy-horror that's definitely entertaining. Its fast-paced action and social commentary helped it gain cult status over the years, especially for introducing John Boyega to mainstream audiences before his breakout role in 'Star Wars: The Force Awakens.' The story kicks off when a group of young offenders, led by the tough Moses (Boyega), mug a woman named Sam (Jodie Whittaker). However, their plans are interrupted when an alien spacecraft crashes nearby, and terrifying, aggressive alien creatures begin attacking the block. Instead of running away, Moses and his gang decide to fight back and protect their home turf from the extraterrestrial threat. They end up banding together with Sam, who becomes an unlikely ally in their fight for survival. Rotten Tomatoes score: 91% Watch it now on Hulu 'The Damned' (2024) THE DAMNED Official Trailer (2024) - YouTube Watch On Looking for something on Hulu with a more serious tone? 'The Damned' is worth checking out. This folk horror movie had a limited theatrical run in early January and received strong praise from critics, with some describing it as 'heavy on mood and existential terror.' The story follows Eva (Odessa Young), a young widow who leads a remote fishing outpost during a harsh winter. When a foreign ship sinks off the coast, Eva and her crew are faced with a moral dilemma: rescue the survivors or ensure their own survival by conserving dwindling resources. Their decision sets off a series of eerie and supernatural events, including the appearance of a draugr — a revenant from Nordic folklore — suggesting that their choice has awakened a malevolent force. Rotten Tomatoes score: 91% Watch it on Hulu starting May 9 More from Tom's Guide
