Innocence, originally titled Gyul-baek, is a South Korean movie halfway between a drama and a thriller. It tells the story of a successful female lawyer who travels from the busy capital of Seoul back to her gloomy hometown to defend her own mother suffering from dementia who is accused of having poisoned five men with rice wine.
This movie convinces on numerous levels. First and foremost, the actresses and actors are truly excellent. Shin Hye-sun excels as successful young lawyer who must revisit her own difficult past in order to protect her mother suffering from dementia and her little brother struggling with autism. Bae Jong-ok impresses as elderly mother dealing with severe dementia who has more than one sinister secret to hide. Hong Kyung indeed delivers the goods as innocent but observant younger brother dealing with a severe case of autism who is negatively influenced by corrupt acquaintances and emotional family members alike. Huh Joon-ho touches viewers by portraying a corrupt politician who is unafraid of betraying, exploiting and harming friends time and again. Tae Hang-ho deserves a special mention for portraying a clumsy but perseverant constable with a heart of gold.
Another strong element of this movie is its emotional plot that comes around with a few decent twists and turns by the end of the film. Viewers will get to explore themes such as attempted suicide, child abuse, corruption, mental illnesses and murders. However, this movie also features a few positive themes such as courage, family, friendship, justice and resilience. Viewers are going to explore an intense rollercoaster ride from start to finish.
One should also mention this movie's consistent sinister atmosphere. Viewers will get to explore funerals, prison cells and courtroom settings in the present while exploring locations connected to abuse, betrayal and murder in numerous cleverly interwoven flashbacks. The film's very good lighting techniques, sound effects and soundtrack elevate it to an above-average entry in both the drama and thriller genres.
At the end of the day, Innocence, originally titled Gyul-baek, is a slow burn that develops into a mysterious thriller and a sinister drama. This very good movie is carried by excellent acting, gripping atmosphere and clever plot with a few twists and turns. While not innovating its genres or leaving a profound mark, genre fans and followers of contemporary South Korean cinema should most definitely give this movie a fair chance.
