THE CHASER is a another example of the cutting edge of Asian cinema and its universal influence, especially on western cinema, as this is currently in the process of being set to be remade in Hollywood, by the team who created the INFERNAL AFFAIRS remake, THE DEPARTED. The story follows, Jung Ho, an ex cop who is now a pimp, and who is looking for two of his girls, who have disappeared. Unbeknowst to Jung, the girls have become victim to twisted serial killer, Young min, who Jung suspects to be instead a rival pimp, buying his girls off him, without his knowledge. Through a series of events Jung ho and Young min, clash into each other and eventually a chase and beating ensues with Young min, being taken to the local police station and eventually confessing to nine murders. The police task force behind the murder investigation strongly believe that he is the murderer and have 12 hours to find and gather evidence against him, or he will be set free without charge, and the same time Jung ho, has to look for another one of his girls Min jin who has become captive by the psychopath. Aside from a slow start the film really kicks in once Young min is detained and the police have 12 hours to build a case against him. At the same time, Jung ho's character undergoes a change from being a bit of a bastard to eventually setting out on a desperate effort to find Min jin, especially as he finds out and develops a kind of bond with her daughter. The performances are superb, and the portrayal of psycho Young min, is excellent as he is an instantly dislikeable person, who is playing the police at there own game and leading round in circles. The direction is tight and stylish, with some superb suspense and nail biting scenes, and there's also a strain of humour throughout the film that provide a slight relief from the dark undertone. Overall another strong and impressive entry that highlights the excellence and originality of Asian cinema.
Review of The Chaser
