It's hard to categorize this Korean shocker, which might be considered a horror film, a ghost story, a mystery, a psychological drama, or a combination of all of these. What it's not is forgettable: filmmaker Yoon Jong-chan has painstakingly crafted a deeply unsettling movie that teems with powerful, evocative images, and while Sorum may not have the most coherent or logical plot, early on it develops an eerie, oppressive mood that is sustained throughout. The action (using that word loosely) follows young taxi driver Kim Myeong-min, who moves into a deteriorating tenement (the previous tenant has died under mysterious circumstances, and the other residents seem both enigmatic and fearful) and begins an ill-advised affair with battered wife Jang Jin-young. The dangerous liaison is not the only thing complicating Kim's life, however, as the film gradually reveals terrifying secrets having to do with evil forces that apparently reside in the house. Indisputably atmospheric, Sorum doesn't lay on its chills with a trowel; rather, it daintily adds them, bit by bit, with a measuring spoon. Some will find Jong-chan's deliberate pacing and elliptical narrative off-putting, but those who stick with the movie to the end will be rewarded with a profoundly creepy viewing experience. A strong optional purchase. (E. Hulse)
Sorum
Tartan, 112 min., in Korean w/English subtitles, not rated, DVD: $24.99 Volume 20, Issue 6
Sorum
Star Ratings
As of March 2022, Video Librarian has changed from a four-star rating system to a five-star one. This change allows our reviewers to have a wider range of critical viewpoints, as well as to synchronize with Google’s rating structure. This change affects all reviews from March 2022 onwards. All reviews from before this period will still retain their original rating. Future film submissions will be considered our new 1-5 star criteria.
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