[Korea Movie] Old Boy : Explores the Concept of the "Cycle of Violence"

 

"Oldboy" is a highly acclaimed film directed by Park Chan- wook. The film follows the story of a man who is imprisoned for 15 years without any explanation and embarks on a quest for revenge upon his release. The film is known for its intense violence, twists and turns, and thought-provoking story.

 

 

"Oldboy" is a highly polarizing film that elicits strong reactions from audiences and critics alike. On one hand, some viewers and critics praise the film for its unconventional storytelling structure, innovative cinematography, and complex themes. These elements contribute to a captivating and thought- provoking viewing experience, making the film a  standout in the genre of Korean cinema.

On the other hand, others criticize the film for its extreme violence and disturbing themes, which many consider gratuitous and excessive. These elements can make the film difficult for some viewers to watch, and some argue that they detract from the overall quality of the film. Regardless of one's stance on the film, it is clear that "Oldboy" is a controversial and influential work that continues to spark intense debate and discussion in the world of film criticism.

Additionally, "Oldboy" is also noted for its exploration of themes such as identity, solitude, and the cycle of violence. The film's complex narrative and unconventional structure keep audiences engaged and has solidified its place as a classic of South Korean cinema. Despite the criticism, "Oldboy" remains a beloved film for many and continues to influence filmmakers and fans alike.

 

 

"Oldboy" explores the concept of the "cycle of violence" in a profound manner. The film's protagonist, Oh Dae-su, finds himself trapped in a cycle of revenge that ultimately consumes him. The cycle of violence is portrayed as a destructive force that perpetuates itself, as each act of violence leads to another, creating a never- ending spiral of retaliation and retribution.

The film's use of the cycle of violence serves to comment on the dangers of revenge and the destructive nature of holding grudges. It highlights the importance of forgiveness and breaking the cycle, as continuing down this path can lead to self-destruction. Through its exploration of the cycle of violence, "Oldboy" offers a commentary on the human condition and the psychological toll that this type of behavior can have on individuals.

In conclusion, the cycle of violence in "Oldboy" is a central theme that adds depth to the film and raises important questions about the nature of revenge and its impact on the human psyche. It serves as a reminder of the importance of breaking the cycle and finding a way to move forward in a positive direction.

 

"Oldboy" is often compared to Greek tragedy, particularly the story of Oedipus, as well as the ancient epic of "The Odyssey." The film explores themes of fate and revenge, and its central character, Oh Dae-su, can be seen as a tragic hero who is brought down by his own flaws and mistakes. The story of "Oldboy" mirrors that of Oedipus and "The Odyssey" in its portrayal of a protagonist who must confront the consequences of his actions and struggle to uncover the truth.

The Greek tragedy "Oedipus" and the story behind the film "Oldboy" share themes of fate, revenge, and the consequences of actions. Both focus on the idea that a person's actions, no matter how unintentionally, can lead to devastating results. In "Oldboy," the protagonist is trapped in a cycle of violence, much like Oedipus, who ultimately realizes that his actions have led to his own downfall. Both works examine the idea that our choices can have a profound impact on our lives and those around us.

 

The Greek Tragedy of "Oedipus Rex" is a classic play written by Sophocles in the 5th century BCE. The story revolves around the eponymous character, Oedipus, who unknowingly kills his father and marries his mother. The play explores themes of fate, free will, and the consequences of one's actions.

Hamartia is a Greek term that refers to a tragic flaw or error in judgment that leads to the downfall of a character. In "Oedipus Rex," Oedipus' hamartia is his rash decision-making and stubbornness, which ultimately leads to his tragic fate. The play serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of unchecked pride and the importance of humility and self-awareness.

Oldboy follows the story of Oh Dae-su, a man who is mysteriously imprisoned for 15 years without knowing the reason why. After he is finally released, he embarks on a journey to uncover the truth about his captivity and seek revenge against those responsible. The film has been compared to the Greek tragedy "Oedipus Rex" due to its themes of fate, destiny, and the consequences of one's actions.

In "Oedipus Rex," King Oedipus attempts to uncover the truth about his past and find the murderer of the previous king, only to discover that he himself is the culprit. 

 

Like Oh Dae-su in Oldboy, Oedipus is driven by a desire for revenge and the truth, and ultimately suffers the consequences of his actions.

 

In the film Oldboy, the protagonist Oh Dae-su cuts his own tongue as a form of self-punishment and desperation, while in the Greek tragedy Oedipus, the protagonist Oedipus blinds himself as a form of punishment for his unwitting crimes. Both acts reflect the characters' realization of their tragic fate and their attempts to atone for their actions.

Both Oh Dae-su and Oedipus suffer from the consequences of their actions, but while Oh Dae-su's captor was seeking revenge, Oedipus' punishment was a result of his own tragic flaw of arrogance and the prophecy that he would kill his father and marry his mother. The relationships with their respective daughter and mother also contrast in that Oh Dae-su has a strained relationship with his daughter while Oedipus has a close relationship with his mother before the truth is revealed.

Hamartia is a Greek term referring to a tragic flaw or error in judgement of a hero or protagonist in a literary work, which leads to their downfall or suffering. It is often considered as the main cause of the tragedy in a story.

The concept of Hamartia, a Greek term for tragic flaw, is also present in both Oldboy and "Oedipus Rex." Oh Dae-su's relentless pursuit of revenge and truth ultimately leads to his downfall, just as Oedipus' determination to find the truth leads to his own tragic fate.