"Seire" (2021), directed by Park Kang, is a South Korean horror film that embraces the themes of superstition, suspicion, and paranoia, delivering a gripping narrative filled with eerie atmosphere and a sense of dread. With its strong emotional core and unique take on family dynamics, "Seire" stands as a promising debut for director Park and a notable addition to the horror genre.
The film follows the story of Woo-jin (Hyun-woo Seo) and his partner Hae-mi (Eun-woo Sim) as they navigate the challenges of parenthood after the birth of their first child. While Woo-jin remains skeptical of legends and folk tales, his wife and parents adhere to the rules of "seire," a period that restricts access to the baby's room and forbids any potentially dangerous activities. When Woo-jin receives an invitation to attend the funeral of his former lover Se-young, he reluctantly accepts, unaware that this decision will set off a series of disturbing events.
At the funeral, Woo-jin encounters Ye-young (A-bel Ryu), Se-young's twin sister, and is struck by her resemblance to his former lover. As Woo-jin delves into memories of his past relationship, nightmares and unsettling visions plague him, fueling his growing unease and leading him to question the validity of his wife's fears. The film explores Woo-jin's increasing belief that the vengeful spirit of his ex-lover is intent on haunting his family and destroying their happiness.
One of the notable aspects of "Seire" is its departure from the typical horror trope of a female protagonist questioning her sanity. Director Park presents a refreshing perspective by placing a male lead at the center of the psychological turmoil. The screenplay leaves room for interpretation, blurring the lines between reality and dreams, keeping viewers engaged and invested in Woo-jin's psychological journey. Hyun-woo Seo delivers a captivating performance, effectively portraying Woo-jin's internal struggle with guilt and responsibility, heightening the realism of the horror he faces.
The film's slow-burn approach is another strength, eschewing cheap jump scares in favor of building tension through its ensemble cast, cinematography by Gyeong-hyeon Hwang, and the haunting score by Young-gyu Jang. This combination creates a constant sense of unease, with certain scenes leaving a lasting impression as the narrative reaches its climax.
Conclusion
In conclusion, "Seire" is a standout horror film that showcases Park Kang's potential as a director. Its eerie atmosphere, efficient storytelling, and strong ensemble cast contribute to its status as one of the most effective genre flicks in recent years. With its unique take on male protagonist introspection and its ability to deliver genuine scares without relying on cheap tricks, "Seire" proves itself as a promising addition to the South Korean horror canon.
Seire (2021) - info
- Release date: October 2021
- Genre: Horror, Drama
- Director: Kang Park
- Writer: Kang Park
- Stars: Seo Hyun-woo, Sun-young Ryu, Eun-woo Shim