Phantom

Finally, a great film from South Korea, quite close to the Amsal in its period setting. These spy movies are about 50/50 for me, but Phantom is definitely one of the more successful additions. The first half could also be described as a Korean variation on Knives Out. Set in 1933 during the Japanese colonization era, the film tells the story of five suspects who are isolated in a hotel where one of them is a mysterious “Phantom” spy. Interrogation, distrust, fights, torture, betrayal and surprise. The film has excellent visuals to fall back on, technically Phantom is really polished, all the characters are interesting, properly mysterious and well acted. The biggest star is Kjong-gu Sol, but I've seen the rest of the cast elsewhere. The atmosphere is also good, there’s plenty of suspense and once the spy's identity is revealed it's one big ride and fight for life, with no shootouts spared. There could have been more action and it is not the pillar of the film, but it is still an engaging and well made movie with an engaging story that manages to surprise and not get boring. 8/10. (15.05.2023)