From an asianwiki description plus its trailer, I was intrigued by this movie. I am a fan of Korean movies, and this for me is one of those that are exceptional. I could compare it to a movie called Bleak Night (2010), All About Lily Chou Chou (2001) and also Confessions (2010). I read from some other reviews out there that, as shown in the movie, "the pressure for entrance exams and the film's opening scenes of people praying and lining the streets to cheer exam takers are real, with Korea having high student suicide rates in reality." The movie ultimately shows how "the stress and expectations of society pushed these students to do horrible things. How bleak their world seemed even though they were only 17 (19 in Korean age); no loyalty, friendship driven by fear." The plot to me means a lot, it's very strong. I needed a second viewing in order to fully get what the movie gives. I agree that this film has more potential than how it's delivered, but a different direction could actually make the movie turn over-dramatic or feel unreal. It had a really nice atmosphere. There is also an added creepy thing, the torture chamber (before) within the school building that actually existed, which was one of the most important setting in Pluto. Plus, pretty Kim Kkot-bi is added as a minor character but stands out as well, like Lee Da-wit and Sung Joon. Yes, acting is really good.
Don't miss this one. I also recommend to re-watch the film as one may not fully understand it. I did not get at first what the metaphors in the movie meant, like the thing about Pluto being demoted, but after a re-watch, it became more clear. If you like the titles mentioned above, give this one a try.
Don't miss this one. I also recommend to re-watch the film as one may not fully understand it. I did not get at first what the metaphors in the movie meant, like the thing about Pluto being demoted, but after a re-watch, it became more clear. If you like the titles mentioned above, give this one a try.