Real
TReal is a visually stunning and mind-bending Korean film that takes viewers deep into a gritty world of crime, mystery, and psychological intrigue. The story follows Jang Tae Yeong (played by Kim Soo Hyun), a cold and calculated problem solver who runs a sprawling underground casino empire. Known for his dual identities, Tae Yeong is a man of many secrets, working as a "fixer" to solve dangerous problems for powerful figures. The plot thickens when Tae Yeong partners with Choi Jin Gi (Lee Sung Min), a corrupt investor with a dangerous plan to expand the casino's operations. Meanwhile, Jo Won Geun (Sung Dong Il), a ruthless gangster, lurks in the shadows, threatening Tae Yeong’s control. Adding to the intrigue is Song Yoo Hwa (Sulli), a mysterious rehabilitation therapist who becomes entangled in Tae Yeong’s chaotic world, blurring the lines between trust and betrayal. As Tae Yeong faces betrayal and mounting pressure, the arrival of a mysterious doppelgänger turns his life upside down. This doppelgänger claims to be the "real" Tae Yeong, plunging the narrative into a psychological battle of identity and survival. The movie explores themes of duality, ambition, and the corrupting power of greed, set against a backdrop of neon-lit cityscapes and high-stakes crime. Directed by Lee Sa Rang, Real is a bold cinematic experience with its surreal storytelling and stylistic visuals. Anchored by Kim Soo Hyun’s intense performance, the film delivers gripping action, psychological drama, and jaw-dropping twists, making it a must-watch for fans of Korean neo-noir and crime thrillers.
Details
🌎 Also Known As: Real
🎭 Genres: Action, Thriller, Crime
🏷 Tags: Sexual Content, Physically Strong Male Lead, Difficult Adulthood, Strip Club Setting, Casino Setting, Gang Leader Male Lead, Secret Romance, Drug Trafficking, Violent Male Lead, Mental Breakdown
✍ Screenwriter: Lee Jung Sub
🎬 Director: Lee Sa Rang
🇰🇷 Country: South Korea
🎬 Release Date: June 28, 2017
📺 Original Network: N/A
⏰ Duration: 2 hours 17 minutes
🔞 Content Rating: 18+ Restricted (violence & profanity)
Best Scenes
- The intense face-off between Jang Tae Yeong (Kim Soo Hyun) and his doppelgänger, revealing the psychological complexity of the film.
- The breathtaking casino fight scene, showcasing Tae Yeong’s raw physical strength and determination.
- Song Yoo Hwa’s (Sulli) emotional therapy session, adding depth and intrigue to her character.
- The climactic showdown involving Tae Yeong, Choi Jin Gi, and Jo Won Geun in a high-stakes confrontation.
- The surreal underwater dream sequence, a visual masterpiece that blurs reality and imagination.
Filming Locations
- The luxurious and neon-lit casino set, a major highlight of the film’s aesthetic.
- Dark alleys and abandoned warehouses in Seoul, adding a gritty urban feel.
- High-end hotel suites used for tense negotiation scenes.
- Secluded rehabilitation centers, providing a stark contrast to the film’s chaotic world.
- Rooftop views of Seoul’s skyline, amplifying the drama’s suspense and tension.
Visual Design and Costumes
- Jang Tae Yeong’s tailored suits reflect his dual identities and sophisticated persona.
- The vibrant, neon-heavy cinematography captures the allure and danger of the casino world.
- Song Yoo Hwa’s elegant wardrobe juxtaposes her mysterious and emotional vulnerability.
- The gritty and shadowy lighting adds a noir-like atmosphere to the film.
- Detailed and realistic props, from high-stakes gambling equipment to weapons, enhance authenticity.
Themes and Messages
- Identity and Duality: Explores the psychological toll of living with multiple personas.
- Ambition and Greed: Examines how power and desire corrupt individuals.
- Betrayal and Trust: Highlights the fragility of relationships in a world of crime.
- Mental Health and Trauma: Delves into the protagonist’s struggle with his fractured psyche.
- Reality vs. Illusion: Challenges viewers to question what is real in a world full of deception.
Interesting Facts
- Real marked Kim Soo Hyun’s final project before his military enlistment, showcasing his dedication to a challenging role.
- The film’s surreal and experimental approach polarized critics and audiences, making it a cult favorite.
- Sulli’s performance in a mature role gained significant attention for its boldness.
- Director Lee Sa Rang collaborated closely with Kim Soo Hyun to develop the character’s psychological depth.
- The film’s intricate plot twists and ambiguous ending sparked extensive discussions and theories among fans.
Awards
As of now, there are no records of the 2017 South Korean film Real receiving any major awards or nominations. The film, starring Kim Soo Hyun and Sulli, garnered attention for its ambitious narrative and visual style but did not achieve significant critical acclaim or recognition in the form of awards.
Real-Life Loves on Set
There is no confirmed information or credible reports indicating that any real-life romantic relationships developed among the cast members of Real during or after its production. While the film stars Kim Soo Hyun and Sulli, known for their on-screen chemistry, no off-screen romances have been publicly acknowledged.
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