I Saw the Devil

An uncomfortably naturalistic spectacle that incorporates the old familiar concept of "righteous vengeance" as well as serial murder. With the exception of the first half hour, this is indeed a strong revenge movie, in which the psychology of the two main characters is pretty sparse (we learn absolutely nothing about the killer's past), which on the other hand gives more room for gore and action scenes. At its core, it's a very superficial and overexposed contribution to the serial killer genre, but it can't be denied a few strong scenes and formally a completely professional execution. (10/15/2019)

In a way, it's a work of genius. On the other hand, I'm a little ashamed to be so positive about so much evil. But I've been taught that "such is life". I have huge sympathy for Byeong-heon Lee and I understood all his inhumane actions the whole time. He simply had a lot to avenge. Again, no one could have been better chosen for the role of the devil than Min-sik Choi. I often thought it was too open-ended, but otherwise the viewer probably wouldn't have properly felt the desire for revenge. My 5 stars are for the fantastic script and great acting and direction. (10/02/2011)

I’m accustomed to intense material from Koreans, which you rarely find in American or European films, but I Saw the Devil would probably fit into a category of its own. The naturalistic depiction of violence and unsettling situations that make you uncomfortable during viewing is quite rare. At times, I actually hesitated to continue watching the film, not due to any lack of quality, but because of the explicitness that permeates every aspect of it. However, I overcame that impulse and was ultimately glad I did. I have to commend the filmmakers for their bravery in portraying the actions of a serial killer in such an unacceptable manner for many people. The two main characters are played by renowned actors from the Asian peninsula, and the audience immediately understands that they will be treated to a script with finely crafted dialogue down to the smallest detail. The conversations between the characters are among the most intricate aspects of the film. However, I must point out one flaw: the lack of a more impactful ending. Yes, the conclusion cannot be described as bad or poorly executed, but the buildup suggested it could be one of the best detective thrillers, and the actual climax left me expecting something even grander. Still, I can recommend it. I’m giving it 81%. (07/29/2019)

I was ready for everything, from pure brutal carnage to an experimental revenge-thriller, where all the murders would be served exclusively to the accompaniment of classical music or sped-up editing, but in the end I got, how to say it politely.... nothing. Not that I'm questioning a certain formal level, the impressive sets, the believable actors or a few rather suggestive shots, but in short, I've learned to expect a bit more from these foreign film than just shocking content completely devoid of common sense or a sense of proper hyperbole. I Saw the Devil has such a bad script that every twist and turn dissipates the tension that has been painstakingly built up, and even, which is unheard of, all the main characters leave with the label "dumbass" on their foreheads. Moreover, the brutality is nowhere near the level needed to move the story into a more friendly experiential league, and so the only truly positive things remain a few nice references to other genre works and a poignant sexual undertone that, at least at times, brings to mind the atmosphere of twisted human souls so familiar from The Silence of the Lambs or Se7en. 45% (08/17/2015)

Ha, I don't even know why I've put off this pinnacle of Asian cinema for so long. The great director, the amazing leading duo, the perfect cinematography, the excellent technical aspect, the decent idea, the solid pace and, most of all, the awesome and uncompromising gore effects brought me a unique cinematic experience and one of the best serial killer movies that I will remember with pleasure for a very long time. 100% (11/20/2014)