This Old Korean Movie Walked So Squid Game and Parasite Could Run

South Korean cinema has grown in popularity over the years and has gained worldwide fame. With hits such as Parasite (2019), Train to Busan (2016), and Squid Game TV series (2021), it has created a massive fan base among Western audiences.

But let's not forget the one movie that paved the way for all the others to follow, becoming a massive hit and praised by countless renowned Western filmmakers.

We are, of course, talking about Oldboy, a 2003 neo-noir psychological action thriller directed by Park Chan-wook, which is about to be re-released in theaters in a remastered version.

20 years later, this movie has absolutely stood the test of time and remains as great as ever.

The story follows Oh Dae-su, portrayed by Choi Min-sik, who is kidnapped by an unknown assailant and put in a private prison. Released 15 years later without any explanation, he has to solve the mystery of who is behind it.

With some brilliant acting, great action (the hallway scene still makes its way into lists of the best fight scenes of all time) and an absolutely shocking final twist, this masterpiece has undoubtedly earned its cult status.

It even won the top prize at the 2004 Cannes Film Festival and was highly praised by the jury president, who was none other than the legendary Quentin Tarantino.

Fans are very excited about the upcoming re-release and say that Oldboy is a great way to enter the world of South Korean cinema.

It's a great opportunity to revisit this great story or, if you haven't seen it yet, to experience the intense plot for the first time. And we honestly envy you if you fall into the latter category.

The remastered version of Oldboy will be back in theaters on August 16, 2023.