I’m A Cyborg is a strange tale, taking place in a mental institution. Suicide, depression and schizophrenia are rarely topics covered in a romantic comedy, but this pulls it off. It is only to be expected to be a masterpiece with Park Chan-wook at the helm, shortly after the completion of his highly regarded Vengeance Trilogy.
As mentioned before; there are dark topics in the film, and starting off with a suicide attempt is a powerful way of setting the tone. But there is almost a British style of humour as the film approaches this subject.
The protagonist of this film is Young-goon, who after spending a long time working in an electrical factory, and with her grandmother having being taken into a home, becomes convinced she is a cyborg. Her suicide attempt is actually her thinking that she is re-charging her batteries, because she needs her energy to kill all of the “white-coats” who took her grandmother.
This already emotional tale of mental illness is then taken to another level as at the institution she falls in love with Il-sun, played by Korean superstar Rain. Il-sun voluntarily sectioned himself as he suffers from various anti-social disorders. It’s the classic tale of insane girl meets insane boy.
The performances are brilliant as you meet various inmates at the institution and we see all of their own problems, fantasies, and loves. Park Chan-wook, as well as directing, put a lot into the writing of the film, and it shows. The strange stories, as well as a view for revenge become familiar after his stunning work on the Vengeance Trilogy.
The only problem with the performances is Rain. If you don’t know, Rain has built himself up in the business world, as well as the culture world of Korea. He owns multiple companies and has had many hit records; this gives him an air of confidence that annoyingly comes across in his acting. He appears very sure of himself, as if he is not focusing on what he is doing, and just thinking about how much everyone will love him for it. Unfortunately, he appears for his name rather than his acting ability.
Despite being a protagonist, this does not ruin the film. Although it does ruin a pivotal scene, as you feel that his character is rather forced into the situation, instead of having a reason to really be there.
However, this does not dampen a viewer’s enjoyment of the film. The rest of the cast play their roles magnificently. This glimpse into the world of mental illness is not over exaggerated. The stories of the inmates are played with respect, and with honestly to their situation. This film shows that people with mental illness are as open to emotion to any other person, but just act differently because of their conditions.
This is a film you could watch with the family, if the youngest viewers are teenagers. Despite its dark tones and realism, it is still a mad-cap rom-com about two crazy kids in love. If you are a fan of Park Chan-wook’s previous work, you will definitely enjoy this.
Fan: James Angus
No comments:
Post a Comment