Decibel might ride on the damsel-in-distress cliche but scores well in the execution of action scenes. The sound-responsive bomb is an innovative feature that heightens the tension and creates a distinct brand of multisensory suspense. These unforgiving bombs increase viewers' sensitivity to sound.
The cast's excellent screen presence adds to the tension. Decibel is one of the few times fans get to see Lee JongSuk play the antagonist, and he does not disappoint. His performance of villain-grade lunacy, driven by profound pain, elicited gasps from the audience. Cha EunWoo also had his moments to shine, as he conveyed a heartfelt farewell on the submarine. Jung SangHoon balances the intense action with his humanity and some slapstick moments before things get too serious.
To be honest, it was soo heartbreaking to see the aftermath of a terrible accident in which truths were swept under the rug and accident victims were left with mental traumas. With that, I felt, the submarine problem is an important part of the film that may have been overshadowed by the bombs and action. DoYoung's dilemma immediately brings to mind the classic trolley problem experiment, and viewers are called to ponder what they would have done in that situation. However, as it demonstrates, there is no perfect solution to every problem.
In a nutshell, Decibel has a heartfelt plot. It was a film that revealed the weight of being a leader and the decisions that must be made. The decision costs lives and changes the lives of others. Perfect one for one time watch!
