Interesting idea

This movie from the director of 'Oasis' is based around a narrative that unfolds in reverse, as in 'Memento'. By doing this the film leaves the viewer unburdened by the question of what happens next, instead making a mystery out of one mans disintegration into the suicidal wreck we are introduced to in the opening scene. The intention seems to have been to use this character as a cipher to examine Korea's turbulent recent past.

Though the film is audacious and formally interesting I found myself unconvinced by the central character, who seems to react to every situation he faces with a hysteria which becomes grating. I couldn't escape the feeling that I wasn't watching a rounded character at all but a symbol who was supposed to stand for an entire nation. This became particularly problematic during the film's pivotal scene which, for me at least, simply wasn't believable.

Although I was slightly underwhelmed by the film I would recommend anyone seek out the director's earlier 'Green Fish' as well as 'Oasis', both of which are excellent