Rating of
4/4
Bittersweet Life, A (Dalkomhan insaeng) review
Daniel Corleone - wrote on 05/21/12
Kang (Kim Yeong-cheol) informs an enforcer named Kim Sun-woo (Lee Byung-hun) to look over his young girlfriend Heesoo (Shin Min-ah), who he thinks might be having an affair. Not sure how one can survive being buried alive even with a broken finger, it was a deep hole despite Moon saying it was shallow. Nevertheless, the realism of the violence was impeccable and stylish while Lee Byung-hun brought his sensational and sincere acting which makes you empathize for his ordeals and keeps you focused with the plot. Soundtrack was applicable and endearing as well. Utilization of light, reflections, overhead shots, flashbacks and slow-motion were majestic. Screenplay was well written with lines from: President Kang - “The world is not easy. You can do 100 things right, but one mistake can destroy everything.” “Love isn’t love if you’re being lied to.” Kim – “Everyone’s got to live their life.” “But we can’t turn back time now can we? and Mr. Moon – “The World’s a funny place.” A Bittersweet Life’s themes of finding happiness, revenge, choices, loyalty, harsh realities and love were tackled poetically by the talented director.
