Oldboy on DVD

It's taken me awhile to put the DVD for Park Chan wook's second Revenge Trilogy installment Oldboy in because the first time I saw it in theatres, despite all its critical acclaim, slick production and high caliber performances, my friend and I were furious at its choice of story device.

Generally as a film reviewer I can tolerate and am sadly desensitized to a great many things I've seen on screen. Not a great deal impresses me other than the ability to tell and deliver a great story. Still, there are somethings that I have trouble watching; rape, pedophilia, documentary footage of executions and incest, most of which I can deal with if there is a genuine reason of its existence on screen. I'll save you the violin song why I have a problem with it particularly in this film only to say the latter is what Oldboy deals with and serves up as revenge.

So watching it a second time, I found it more easier to digest as I ignored much of the story and concentrated on other technical aspects. I have much more appreciation for its technical merits; cinematography and CGI plus the fight sequences and very distinct style of storytelling. Since I can not recommend watching the film for its story, it is however a feast for the eyes in its technical execution, definitely one that would be interesting to deconstruct in film schools.

The DVD released by Tartan Video filled with special features including an interview with director Park Chan wook, an extensive collection of deleted scenes, trailer contest winner and the director's and cinematographer's commentary. Also, strangely enough there is an English dubbed track included with its original Korean track as well as English and Spanish subtitles.

Oldboy, for reasons beyond my comprehension, has been picked up for a US remake care of Director Justin Lin of Better Luck Tomorrow fame.

Is that REALLY necessary?

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