Decision to Leave is a showcase of the talent and inspirations of Korean directors Park Chan-wook. Hae-jun (Park Hae-il, Memories of Murder) is a detective troubled by the cases he is unable to solve. His latest case involves the death of an old man in which his widow Seo-rae (Tang Wei, Lust, Caution) appears to be the prime suspect. Complicating matters is Hae-jun seems to be falling in love with her.
It is a classic noir setup that genre fans will be instantly familiar with. Hae-jun is not as hard boiled and Seo-rae is no one’s femme fatale, but the roles they both play are clear. The first hour of Decision to Leave follows suit and is a very straightforward thriller. It would be incorrect to call it predictable, but there is nothing surprising, either.
Decision to Leave uses the camera and music to draw audiences into its mystery. There are sudden zooms and pullbacks that show the full scope of what is happening. The lush cinematography will sweep audiences away. The score brings suspense and emotion to each moment. It is so effective that It is almost a shame when the film takes a hard turn. The characters and story have been built so meticulously when Decision to Leave yanks the rug out that it is a jarring feeling that is initially confusing and will take some out of the movie.
But as the story plays out Decision to Leave doubles down on the character development and builds on the romantic tension. Watching the relationship play out between the two leads is sad and exciting. The two push and pull against each other and are an intoxicating couple to watch. Which is not to say that the story becomes an afterthought.
The mystery brought Hae-jun and Seo-rae together and continues to be an important part of their relationship. Much like the couple, the two major plotlines work with each other while also increasing the conflict. Park weaves an intricate web that is easy to get lost in, but the story remains engaging the entire time. The final moments of Decision to Leave are some of the most moving captured on film this year.
Decision to Leave is something of a departure for Park Chan-wook. It deals with powerful themes and the romance is touching and powerful to watch and is filled with the humor fans have come to expect from Park. Things never get as dark as one may expect, but this does not take away from a fantastic movie. Decision to Leave is a movie that all movie fans should run out and watch.
Decision to Leave is screening at Fantastic Fest
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