Although Parasite (2019) may have propelled director Bong Joon-ho to becoming a household name in the west, but he has been consistently pumping out superb work for years. Memories of Murder (2003) is a prime example of this. Blending dark themes and narrative with levity in the form of whit and near-skapstick, Memories of Murder is both a genre piece within the crime genre, while distinctly a film of its director. Sharp dialogue, excellent performances, and wonderful cinematography underpin what at its course is a thriller which keeps you hooked and guessing, with a finale that I did not expect but wholly appreciated. But the film is also a comment and snapshot if a certain history in time. While never overtly tackling issues of the time head on, the atmosphere of the film and the three main characters tell you all you need to know and provide an ever present threat if violence. It is masterfully executed and if you enjoyed Parasite then you should also give this a go.
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