Taxi Driver 2
Set against the backdrop of the high-end taxi company Cầu Vồng, Taxi Driver 2 explores the mission to assist those in need, especially when they become victims of crime. The series follows the tagline, “If you are in danger, we will help you.” Taxi Driver recounts a series of true events that occurred in South Korea. With its realistic approach, the show delves into themes of violence and societal issues, bringing to light significant historical events such as the Gwangju Uprising and rampant corruption in various fields. The narrative immerses viewers in the harsh realities of society, highlighting the struggles faced by individuals and the impact of fleeting moments of hope.
The production team stated: “When writing the script based on a real event, we were very careful not to depict the victims in a way that would exploit their suffering, let alone ask for forgiveness from the perpetrators. This work aims to draw attention to societal issues that need to be resolved through legal means, so we do not use factual events solely for entertainment.”
Taxi Driver stands out amidst Korean films, featuring excellent performances by actors Kim Do Gi (Lee Je Hoon), Jang Sung Cheol (Kim Eui Sung), Ahn Go Eun (Pyo Ye Jin), Choi Kyung Goo (Jang Hyuk Jin), and Park Jin Uhn (Bae Yoo Ram), showcasing intense action sequences and profound character development. The film is currently trending as one of the most-watched on VieON.
Signal
Lee Je Hoon is recognized for his captivating performance in Signal, which is based on true events. Prior to his rise to fame in Taxi Driver, the 1984-born actor left a strong impression with his role in Signal. The series received overwhelmingly positive reviews from critics and audiences alike, praising its action sequences, storyline, performances, and particularly its profound impact on the audience.
Signal features a well-crafted script that logically unfolds the narrative. The story is inspired by a real cold case in South Korea, specifically the Hwaseong serial murders that took place from 1986 to 1991. Ten women were abducted and murdered by a notorious serial killer. The oldest victim was a 71-year-old woman, while the youngest was just 13. Rather than simply focusing on the crime, Signal intertwines past and present timelines, exploring the psychological depth of the investigation and the haunting truths that persist.
Memories of Murder
Before winning 4 Academy Awards with the blockbuster Parasite, director Bong Joon Ho and actor Song Kang Ho created the masterpiece Memories of Murder 20 years ago (2003). The film quickly captivated the audience by exploring a theme that was still relatively untapped in the Korean entertainment industry at that time. Based on a true historical case, the film portrays the investigation of a serial killer in a rural area of South Korea starting in 1986, featuring a dark, moody atmosphere and a haunting score. The film’s gritty, powerful imagery leaves an indelible mark on viewers, prompting them to reflect on the emotional turmoil and societal injustices portrayed.
Memories of Murder is not only an exploration of crime but also a deep exploration of the viewer’s heart. The film offers a gripping narrative that captivates from start to finish, combining a talented cast with profound character portrayals. It does not merely focus on the detective work; rather, it delves into the psychological complexities and the haunting consequences faced by the investigators, revealing the dark underbelly of humanity.
Silenced
Silenced is a film that not everyone can bear to watch a second time. It may not seem like a typical horror film, but it creates an overwhelming sense of dread and discomfort. The film succeeded in drawing attention to vital issues in contemporary society, even prompting changes in South Korean laws regarding sexual crimes against minors.
Silenced is based on a true story that took place between 2000 and 2005 at a school for disabled children in Gwangju, South Korea. The film’s dark imagery, depicting bloodied scenes and corpses found on the railway, leaves viewers questioning “Why?” Its strength lies not in sensationalism, but in its powerful emotional impact that resonates with audiences, particularly those unable to speak out.
The Conjuring: The Devil Made Me Do It
The Conjuring: The Devil Made Me Do It is the darkest film in the Conjuring series, based on a real-life case involving demonic possession in the United States. The events chronicle the 1981 case of Arne Johnson, who claimed demonic possession as a defense for committing murder, making it a landmark case in the legal history of the U.S. The film delves into supernatural occurrences, including a murder case where the victim was stabbed 22 times.
The summary of The Conjuring: The Devil Made Me Do It states: “The film reveals a story about the unprecedented intertwining of murder and supernatural forces. It forces paranormal experts Ed and Lorraine Warren to confront a case that is one of the closest to the core of the supernatural.” This film explores dark themes of possession and the moral dilemmas that ensue, making it a gripping addition to the horror genre.
Titanic
While it may seem like just another love story, Titanic remains a timeless classic that has captivated audiences for over 25 years since its release. Notably, in June, a recent expedition to the site where the Titanic sank saw five individuals tragically lose their lives while attempting to explore the wreck. The film continues to garner significant public interest, especially with its re-release in 4K format this past February, allowing viewers to experience it in high quality on platforms like VieON.
Titanic is a romantic epic that tells the story of Jack and Rose—two individuals from vastly different social classes who meet aboard the Titanic and share a love that transcends their circumstances. Historically, this encounter reflects the class struggles of the time, as they face insurmountable odds in their pursuit of happiness. The remains of the ship currently lie about 4,000 meters below sea level, shrouded in mystery for over 111 years, with plans for further exploration expected within the next 20 years.
