Whenever we discuss about Korean Cinema, The film that pops into everyone's mind is inevitably 'Oldboy'. It's hard to find a Korean movie fan who doesn't know Park Chan Wook.
Almost six years since The Handmaiden was released, Park finally came out with his new Film 'Decision To Leave' which earned him the Best Director honor at this year's Cannes Festival.
The cinematic style that brought Park Chan to the pinnacle of popularity in a career spanning thirty years, This time, it's as if Park painted his familiar style in a different color. The world-renowned crime thriller master this time turned into a full-fledged romantic filmmaker. His new film is more concerned with the emotions of human relationships than crime and criminals.
An insomniac detective investigating a recent death mystery, seemingly an accident, comes into contact with the deceased's impeccably beautiful widow, whose aura captivates the detective and the course of their lives will slowly change.
Relationships are built on trust and mutual respect and are sustained by compassion and love. Sometimes in our mortal life, there come some people in whose presence we find peace, who with a magical touch create a stirring in the depths of the heart that no one has ever done before. But happiness never lasts forever When we perceive a deception, When the truth overshadows the lies, nothing is left but pity and hatred. The film reminded me of a poem by Emily Dickinson-
Tell all the truth but tell it slant
Success in Circuit lies
Too bright for our infirm Delight
The Truth's superb surprise
As Lightning to the Children eased
With explanation kind
The Truth must dazzle gradually
Or every man be blind.
Like Park Chan's other films, excellent cinematography and masterful editing make the movie more enjoyable. Decision to leave is one of the best films released this year.