The movie 'Murderer Report' features the performances of actors Jo Yeo-jeong and Jung Sung-il.
'Murderer Report' (directed by Jo Young-jun, provided by A2Z Entertainment and Sony Pictures International Productions, produced by With A Studio, MI Case Studio, and Pluto Story Group, distributed by Sony Pictures Entertainment Korea and A2Z Entertainment) portrays the events that unfold when psychiatrist Yeong-hoon (Jung Sung-il) requests an interview to confess to a series of murders to veteran journalist Sun-joo (Jo Yeo-jeong), who is thirsty for a scoop. This work marks a challenge in the thriller genre for director Jo Young-jun, who has stimulated the sensibility with works such as 'Preparations' and 'Song of the Sun,' meeting two trusted actors Jo Yeo-jeong and Jung Sung-il.
In particular, the film challenges a format that is close to a two-person play through an interview. The story develops by concentrating on the questions and answers between Sun-joo and Yeong-hoon. Elements that could bring about changes such as space, costumes, time, and characters are stripped away. Unlike existing films that showed the process visually, this film primarily relies on explanatory dialogue. Although flashbacks, red and blue media art, lighting, and visual contrasts using these elements appear, they are secondary.
The setting, which could easily become monotonous, is made vibrant by the actors' performances. Jo Yeo-jeong has built a trust belt with audiences through her performances in numerous films such as 'Parasite' and 'Hidden Face.' Jung Sung-il, having showcased his presence regardless of the commercial success of his works after Netflix's 'The Glory,' such as 'Jeon, Ran' and 'Trigger' and 'Omniscient Reader: The Prophet,' is an actor who continually draws attention in every project. The acting details of the two actors contribute immensely to the film's visual appeal and immersion.
As the director noted, "I was thrilled to remember all the lines," the thoroughly calculated chemistry between the two actors captivates viewers at every scene. From the expansion of the pupils, the trembling of the lips, the wrinkles at the chin, to the amount of tears, at least in 'Murderer Report,' unwavering performances can be seen in any close-up.
Above all, the shifts and overthrow of power between interviewer and interviewee, along with the vividness of the two-person play as if viewed closely through a camera, elicits pure admiration for Jo Yeo-jeong and Jung Sung-il. There is also an ongoing curiosity about why this murderer voluntarily agreed to the interview. In response to director Jo Young-jun's statement, "Isn't there a saying that only one should be favored?" both Jo Yeo-jeong and Jung Sung-il faithfully answered, focusing solely on their acting.
Of course, it feels quite like a homework assignment to focus solely on acting for more than 100 minutes of running time. Moreover, given that it's a thriller genre, the dry atmosphere leaves little room for breaks, creating a cold viewing experience. Ultimately, the narrative climax is rather low. Nevertheless, in terms of generating acclaim for their performances, it prompts a renewed reflection on the actors Jo Yeo-jeong and Jung Sung-il.
Even without a cathartic explosive moment, the film conveys its own message. Since Yeong-hoon is a psychiatrist, he defines his actions as a sort of "treatment," yet the fact remains that he is a serial killer. Sun-joo's choice to engage in the interview is driven by the necessity to prevent another victim from arising from him. As a result of that dilemma, the film leaves a lingering question about whether satisfying punishment and revenge can exist in this world.
Rather than being educational, it is unethical, and while it may seem to impart a lesson, it ultimately leaves room for thought. While personal revenge and self-redress are heavily emphasized, the resolution does not feel saturated with satisfaction. This somewhat empty aftertaste, combined with a form that contradicts trends, makes it quite challenging.
Released on Sept. 5, rated for audiences 18 and over, with a running time of 107 minutes.
[Photo] Provided by A2Z Entertainment.
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