Memories Of Murder Details

[Highly rated reviewer]

R is for realism.

Based on the true story of the first serial killings in Korea, Memories of murder is a perfect blend of gritty realism, dark humour and excellent performances which help to create a movie going experience which feels both fresh and original.

The three detectives that we follow on this dark journey are so well performed that it's hard to believe that they are not real detectives doing a spot of acting on the side. You truly believe in the fact that the Korean task force are clearly not prepared for a murder spree of this magnitude, some of their methods of detection are embarrassing at best and that's where the humour comes in to it. Two of our three leads will stop at nothing in order to crack the case, while the other, a more experienced detctive from Seoul, contrast beautifully even if the end results are equally unproductive.

There's no over blown theatrics here, similar in tone to Nowhere to Hide, it's the attention to realism which will have you hooked. Right up until the low key, bleak and rather touching ending. Memories of Murder is a film worth watching.

Excellent

Memories Of Murder is possibly the best Korean film I've seen to date. The story follows a group of police officers trying to solve a string of murders commited by a serial killer.

Two local detectives more interested in results than facts find it increasingly difficult to operate in their usual manner when another detective is sent down from Seoul to assist them.

The story is gripping and full of twists and turns. The makers cleverly allow you to think you've got the whole thing cracked at various points, before revealing another clue and this keeps you hooked. As emotions run high you are shown various sides to each character, which gives them a more human feel than most movie cops - leaving grey areas where all is usually black and white.

It looks as cool and slick as a Hollywood movie but the ending would almost certainly have been different (and decided by a focus group) had it been made in America. As it is, when the credits role you're left with something altogether more satisfying that you'll have to sit and give some thought to.

It's so good, in fact, I'm not going to send this back. I'm keeping it for at least one more viewing!