Spider Forest Review

Disclaimer: Contains spoilers!

Plot Summary: A man wakes up in a forest to discover his girlfriend is dead and, while pursuing the killer, is hit by a car. Now with his memories shattered, he must uncover the events leading up to this moment.

Review: I'm going to begin by saying this film probably isn't for everyone. Film buffs may notice fairly early on that it is heavily inspired by David Lynch, his themes, and style, and the oddity of the story may turn some off; there are even a few scenes that I think were direct nods. Also, the genre is all over the place to instill that dream-like tone as scenes jump from mystery to romance to horror, etc. which may take some viewers out of the experience. The best part of the film is the ongoing mystery of who killed the main guy's girlfriend (extra points for being sexy!) as the audience is given many red herrings. The audience is mostly strung along as the main character, Kang Min, retraces his steps. Furthermore, a big chunk of the film is told through flashbacks prior to Kang Min being hit by the car whereby we learn more about him and what led up to the murder. Throughout the film many things come up for interpretation as the audience is definitely not spoon-fed any single understanding. We are told a story about a boy who witnessed a friend of his killed and her spirit drift away...is that boy Kang Min? There's actually this whole ghost story with the "Spider Forest" that revolves around the main story leaving you wondering. Kang Min was married and his wife killed in a plane crash, but a woman he is interviewing for a show is played by the same actress (say what?). I'm not going to lie, I did not pick up on those two characters being played by the same woman until my second viewing because she looks so different. I personally loved the acting from this wife/mystery woman, played by Jung Suh; she successfully conveyed a lot of emotion and brought to life two separate characters. Speaking of acting, it is quite good and the characters are interesting and mysterious enough. Unfortunately, the mostly disappointing identity of the killer really leaves you scratching your head as you wonder has anything been real in this film! Other than the interesting plot, I really love the music. I've tried to find if there's a soundtrack out there but maybe only in Korea. The visuals are top notch with some excellent imagery. The pacing is great, forcing you to think while never leaving you bored. If you can overlook the ending issues and basic confusion or even appreciate them, then this is a film that deserves at least one viewing.

Notable Moment: The opening scene even though it doesn't show much. But the music is so beautiful, and I love those "longing stare" shots.

Final Rating: 7.5/10