Oldboy (2003)

Detailed Summary

Introduction and Setting

Oldboy is a South Korean neo-noir action thriller film directed by Park Chan-wook. It is based on the Japanese manga of the same name written by Garon Tsuchiya and illustrated by Nobuaki Minegishi. The film is known for its intense plot, dark themes, and stylistic violence.

Oh Dae-su’s Imprisonment

The story begins with Oh Dae-su (Choi Min-sik), an ordinary man, being kidnapped and imprisoned in a private cell without explanation. He spends 15 years in solitary confinement, where he is fed through a slot in the door and provided only a TV for company. During this time, he learns that his wife has been murdered and that he has been framed for the crime.

Dae-su’s Release and Quest for Revenge

One day, Dae-su is suddenly released with no explanation. He wakes up on a rooftop, given new clothes, money, and a cellphone. Determined to find out why he was imprisoned and who was responsible, he begins a quest for revenge. He receives a mysterious phone call from his captor, taunting him to discover the reasons behind his imprisonment.

Meeting Mi-do

Dae-su meets Mi-do (Kang Hye-jung), a young sushi chef who takes him in and helps him on his quest. They develop a romantic relationship, though Dae-su is still consumed by his need for vengeance. Through his investigation, he discovers clues leading to his captor, Lee Woo-jin (Yoo Ji-tae).

Confrontation with Woo-jin

Dae-su finally confronts Woo-jin, who reveals that their shared past in high school is the reason behind the imprisonment. Woo-jin orchestrated the entire ordeal as revenge for Dae-su inadvertently causing the suicide of Woo-jin’s sister by spreading rumors of their incestuous relationship. The elaborate plan was designed to make Dae-su experience the same pain of losing a loved one.

The Shocking Twist

In a harrowing twist, Woo-jin reveals that Mi-do is actually Dae-su’s daughter, whom he has unknowingly fallen in love with. The revelation is devastating, and Woo-jin relishes in Dae-su’s torment. Overwhelmed with guilt and despair, Dae-su begs Woo-jin to keep the secret from Mi-do and mutilates himself as a sign of repentance.

The Final Act

Woo-jin, satisfied with his revenge, takes his own life. Dae-su, unable to live with the knowledge of what has transpired, seeks the help of a hypnotist to erase his memory of the events. The film ends ambiguously, with Dae-su and Mi-do embracing, but it is unclear whether the hypnosis was successful or if Dae-su still retains his memories.

Movie Ending

The film concludes with an ambiguous scene where Dae-su and Mi-do embrace, leaving the audience to wonder whether the hypnosis worked and whether Dae-su can ever find peace.

Post-Credits Scene

There are no post-credits scenes in Oldboy.

Type of Movie

Oldboy is a neo-noir action thriller that combines elements of mystery, psychological drama, and intense action sequences.

Cast

• Choi Min-sik as Oh Dae-su
• Yoo Ji-tae as Lee Woo-jin
• Kang Hye-jung as Mi-do
• Ji Dae-han as No Joo-hwan
• Oh Dal-su as Park Cheol-woong

Film Music and Composer

The film’s score was composed by Jo Yeong-wook, whose music adds to the intense and dramatic atmosphere of the film.

Filming Locations

Oldboy was filmed primarily in South Korea, with various locations in Seoul providing the backdrop for the urban and gritty setting of the story.

Awards and Nominations

Oldboy received numerous prestigious awards, including:

• Cannes Film Festival: Won the Grand Prix.
• Blue Dragon Film Awards: Won Best Film and Best Director (Park Chan-wook).
• Grand Bell Awards: Won Best Film and Best Director.

Behind the Scenes Insights

• Choi Min-sik underwent rigorous physical training for his role, including learning to handle live octopuses for the famous sushi-eating scene.
• The iconic hallway fight scene was filmed in a single continuous take, adding to its intensity and realism.
• Director Park Chan-wook aimed to explore themes of vengeance, memory, and the consequences of one’s actions.

Inspirations and References

The film is based on the Japanese manga Oldboy by Garon Tsuchiya and Nobuaki Minegishi. It also draws inspiration from classic revenge dramas and incorporates elements of Greek tragedy.

Alternate Endings and Deleted Scenes

The final cut closely follows Park Chan-wook’s vision. Some deleted scenes and additional content are available in special editions, offering further context to the story.

Book Adaptations and Differences

While the film follows the general premise of the manga, there are significant differences in plot details and character development. The film’s ending and thematic focus differ from the original manga.

Memorable Scenes and Quotes

Key Scenes

• Dae-su’s imprisonment and the passage of 15 years.
• The iconic hallway fight scene.
• The shocking revelation about Mi-do’s identity.
• Dae-su’s confrontation with Woo-jin and the subsequent twist.
• The ambiguous final embrace between Dae-su and Mi-do.

Iconic Quotes

• “Laugh, and the world laughs with you. Weep, and you weep alone.” – Oh Dae-su
• “Be it a rock or a grain of sand, in water they sink as the same.” – Oh Dae-su

Easter Eggs and Hidden Details

• The film includes various visual motifs, such as the recurring image of ants, symbolizing isolation and despair.
• The number 15 is a recurring motif, representing the years Dae-su spent in captivity.

Trivia

• The live octopus-eating scene was done without special effects; Choi Min-sik actually ate four live octopuses during filming.
• The hallway fight scene took 17 takes over three days to perfect.

Why Watch?

Oldboy is a masterful blend of intense action, psychological depth, and intricate storytelling. Its compelling narrative, strong performances, and shocking twists make it a must-watch for fans of thriller and revenge dramas.

Director’s Other Movies

Park Chan-wook also directed:

• Sympathy for Mr. Vengeance (2002)
• Lady Vengeance (2005)
• The Handmaiden (2016)
• Stoker (2013)
• Thirst (2009)

Recommended Films for Fans

• Sympathy for Mr. Vengeance (2002)
• Lady Vengeance (2005)
• I Saw the Devil (2010)
• Memories of Murder (2003)
• The Chaser (2008)

Oldboy is still one of the best films in the neo-noir thriller genre. It’s a great, unforgettable watch. Its legacy and critical acclaim show that it’s a modern classic in international cinema.