The Witch: Part 1 - The Subversion is a deceptive film in the best way possible. What starts as a seemingly quiet, melancholic drama soon spirals into a brutal, action-packed thriller with jaw-dropping intensity. Directed by Park Hoon-jung, this South Korean film blends mystery, science fiction, and psychological tension into an unpredictable experience that keeps you on edge until the very last scene.
Review
At the heart of the story is Ja-yoon (Kim Da-mi), an ordinary high school girl with no memory of her violent past. Raised in a peaceful rural town, she appears harmless—until strange forces start hunting her down, and the truth behind her origins slowly unravels. Kim Da-mi’s performance is extraordinary; she seamlessly shifts from innocent and vulnerable to chillingly ruthless, making her character one of the most compelling in recent Korean cinema.
The film’s brilliance lies in its structure. It takes its time building intrigue, lulling the audience into a false sense of security with slice-of-life moments, only to rip that illusion apart with shocking revelations and intense action sequences. The gradual shift in tone—from drama to sci-fi horror—is masterfully executed, making the latter half of the film feel like an explosion of chaos and adrenaline. The action choreography is stylish and brutal, featuring telekinetic combat, high-speed chases, and bone-crunching fights. The violence is raw and unflinching but never feels excessive; it serves the story and elevates the film’s sense of urgency. The cinematography complements this perfectly, capturing the contrast between Ja-yoon’s serene life and the high-stakes world lurking beneath the surface.
However, the film does leave many questions unanswered, which may frustrate some viewers. While it sets up a larger narrative and hints at an expansive universe, it leans heavily on its sequel for resolution. The slow pacing in the first half might also test the patience of those expecting immediate action.
Overall, The Witch: Part 1 - The Subversion is an unpredictable, thrilling ride that subverts expectations at every turn. With a breakout performance from Kim Da-mi, stunning action, and a gripping narrative, it’s a must-watch for fans of sci-fi thrillers and dark, character-driven stories. The film doesn’t just tell a story—it sets the stage for something much bigger, leaving you eager for what comes next.
Information
The Witch: Part 1 - The Subversion is a South Korean action-thriller film directed by Park Hoon-jung. It was released on June 27, 2018. The main cast includes Kim Da-mi as Ja-yoon, Jo Min-su as Dr. Baek, Choi Woo-shik as Nobleman, Park Hee-soon as Mr. Choi, and Go Min-si as Do Myung-hee. The film's sequel, The Witch: Part 2 - The Other One, was released on June 15, 2022.
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