genre: fantasy, action, mystery
This film is more fantasy than horror, but it is about a guy who pretends to be an exorcist. Then he gets confronted with an entity that seems to be one of the most dangerous evil spirits he has ever encountered.
This film starts out as a comedy, but soon becomes more serious and action packed. I wished I could say that it becomes more tense and thrilling. There are some thrills to be had, but for the most part Dr. Cheon is a pretty light affair. And I think that is a real shame, as a few of the veteran actors are underused. Huh Joon-ho for example barely speaks and does what he can. But it's beyond me why they didn't give more background on him. Just saying someone is evil, simply isn't enough in films like these. Perhaps this is because the film is approached as an action film. Normally, I am not opposed to action. Still, I had my mind set on more horror. They easily could have done. Especially regarding Dr. Cheon. He is only somewhat capable compared to his deceased father, who was one of the best shamans in the world. They could have for example put him through the test and have him overcome his defiance towards the exorcizing arts. This never happens.
The action is entertaining. There are some scenes where the powers of the evil sorcerer are demonstrated. If you think about it, these powers are quite scary. It's therefore unfathomable why they didn't make events more creepy. A Chinese Ghost Story for example was more comedy oriented and still managed to infuse a little terror and creepiness within the comedy elements. My point is, it wouldn't have required that much extra.
Overall, the film had real potential to be more than a competent action fantasy flick. It's serviceable as entertainment, nothing more, nothing less.
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