'Decision to Leave' Review: The Master is Back and More Romantic Than Ever [TIFF 2022]
A long-awaited return from one of the best contemporary directors - a neo-noir romance steeped in park chan-wook charm.
In the past two decades, there has been a surge in popularity for Korean cinema in international markets as we in the rest of the world begin to realize what we’ve been missing. Multiple Korean filmmakers are now recognized globally for their style and talent, and as a result, we’re beginning to see how that country is influencing the art form. Bong Joon-ho is likely one of the most popular names in Korean filmmaking, especially for Americans, but several other individuals have created thought-provoking, intricate, life-changing works of cinema. Park Chan-wook is another big name both in Korea and for international film buffs.
Park Chan-wook’s legacy makes it difficult for him to consistently release films that will continue to be as positively perceived, as his early work is so prolific, it’s hard to beat. His ‘Vengeance’ trilogy, including Sympathy for Mr. Vengeance, Oldboy, and Sympathy for Lady Vengeance, has left a huge impact, with lovers of cinema still profusely praising it today. Oldboy, specifically, has had a huge influence on psychological thrillers as a genre, and many other films and filmmakers have taken notes from Chan-wook’s book. These films are extremely stylized and very well-made, and have earned their cult followings, which is illustrated with packed theatres whenever these films are replayed.
Decision to Leave is his first feature-length film since 2016, when he released The Handmaiden, which, interestingly, also relies heavily on a love story. While The Handmaiden is a period piece, set in 1930s Korea, there are a few similarities that can be drawn between this masterpiece and his newest film. Without delving into too much plot, as this movie is best seen without knowing much about it at all, this is a romantic film through and through that doesn’t lose that Chan-wook magic. If familiar with his work, it can be expected that there will be some sort of mystery to unravel, or a twist, and this film did not disappoint. The unexpected turns may leave a viewer gasping for breath, not wanting to miss a second in case they miss that vital moment - this is a film that will only get better with rewatch. Similar to his other films, once the viewer can relax and know what to expect, the true artistry of how the film is put together can be properly enjoyed and revelled in.
Before discussing any other aspects of the film, the cinematography, spearheaded by Kim Ji-yong, must be commended. The carefully choreographed camerawork is absolutely gorgeous, with the camera being used creatively and uniquely to show various perspectives and highlight specific features in each scene. The scenery itself is beautiful, but even the mundane things, like a chase sequence, are made to look new and interesting. The film is like a painting, every shot completely immerses your senses, and you won’t want it to end. It will be jarring once the screen darkens and you empty onto your city streets – nothing will be beautiful, not anymore, not in comparison.
The film certainly has a large cast, but it focusses on two main characters, Hae-joon, (Park Hae-il) and Seo-rae, (Tang Wei). Hae-joon is a homicide detective, a workaholic with a wife at home, and he is soon caught up in widow Seo-rae’s story. Seo-rae’s husband was found deceased at the bottom of a mountain, and the investigation soon becomes much more than that when the two leads become acquainted for the first time. Both do a fantastic job in their roles, with Wei as a stand-out. Both have to wear many faces in their roles, acting differently in various situations and hiding secrets from one another and the people around them, even those closest to them. Both Lee Jung-hyun, playing Jung-an, Hae-joon’s wife, and Go Kyung-pyo, playing Soo-wan, Hae-joon’s fellow detective and partner, are outstanding in their respective roles. Often, they provide comedic relief for the viewer, whether that be physical comedy from Kyung-pyo or unexpected outbursts from Jung-hyun, but hold their own as valuable characters. The casting for this film was smart, with the relationships between each of these characters being very convincing.
To fear the same person you are attracted to is such a fascinating concept, which maybe isn’t as uncommon as one might expect, but is rarely the subject of a romantic film. Here, it feels so natural, one is able to feel with the characters, even if they are unsettled by their emotions. Park Chan-wook is able to delve into the human psyche and portray very realistic stories surrounding extraordinary events. He’s a master at work and his confidence shines through this film, with his actors performing wonderfully but his directing so clear, so admirable, you can’t help but notice and watch in awe at what he is able to put together.
Interestingly, it feels like Chan-wook, due to him proving himself through his past films, was able to do truly what he wanted here. Instead of opting for a shock or something wildly out there, this film could be described as simpler. However, in execution, he brings his own complexities and charm, which makes it something new but something still amazing. Not only is the acting believable, but it is clear his touch guided so many elements of the film - a fitting score matching the mood of the scenes, the editing easily capturing an audience’s attention, and a complex script that flies by, tying the viewer up in its intricacies. However, the proper praise should also be given to each person that worked on every aspect of the film - ranging from the composer, Cho Young-wuk, to the editor, Kim Sang-bum, to every assistant on set.
Wildly well-made, Decision to Leave is a must-watch. Complete with terrific acting performances, flawless editing, the bewitching cinematography, and a story that will keep you hooked until you wake up the next morning – this is everything you could ask for. Let Park Chan-wook be romantic – he clearly knows a thing or two about it. While it may not blow away his other films, Decision to Leave is special, and is right up with the others as a high-quality film that will satisfy his established fans and ideally garner some new ones. Catch this film in theatres if you can, you won’t regret it.