A very entertaining movie to say the least. I immensely enjoyed it. However, hearing all the negative reviews about this movie I went in watching it with low expectations and that is what saved this movie for me. If you are expecting another "my sassy girl" masterwork, then you'll be sorely disappointed. This movie definitely is not on the same level as MSG. However, it has its moments and the movie doesn't take itself seriously (except for a few overly melodramatic and sappy scenes). So everyone needs to stop comparing to MSG and accept it for what it is. It's a fun movie to watch and the lead actress is entertaining as ever.
49 Reviews
Promising film that falls flat in the second half
AndyChrono30 July 2007
Warning: Spoilers
This film is essentially two films spliced into one. The first half is more or less like My Sassy Girl with the girl abusing the guy while the two get involved romantically. I must say that although it's definitely a repeat of that successful formula, I personally found it every bit as funny and enjoyable as MSG. Watch especially for the part in the Police Station with the "big-shot" dad.
The second half of this film is where things fall flat. The first problem is that there's simply too many "buys" that the viewer is forced to try and believe such as:
-The car chase scene (actually not that unbelievable and JJH definitely looks hot in this one) -The suicide scene (huge stretch) -The hostage scene where the baddie empties the whole clip at her and misses completely (huge stretch) -Girl gets shot in what looks like the heart judging by the location of the blood stain and survives... (highly unlikely)
Maybe having just one of these things happen would be okay. Having all of the above occur just drives the film to a rather absurd level. The second problem is that the "goodbye" scene among others like the "wind blowing" scenes are drawn out too long and with rather clichéd dialogue. This combined with the absurdity of other scenes makes for a rather poor second half. Some may dislike the ending but I personally had no problem with it.
The two leads both do a fine job with the material that they were given. JJH is definitely one of the best young actresses in the world and I look forward to seeing more from her. I can say that if you are a fan of JJH, you should definitely check this out. If you liked MSG, you should also give this one a go. There are lots of references to MSG that a fan can look for. If you're used to Korean melodrama you could do a lot worse than this film. However newcomers to Korean films would probably want to watch MSG over this one. Your average viewer will probably find it somewhat enjoyable largely due to the first half.
The second half of this film is where things fall flat. The first problem is that there's simply too many "buys" that the viewer is forced to try and believe such as:
-The car chase scene (actually not that unbelievable and JJH definitely looks hot in this one) -The suicide scene (huge stretch) -The hostage scene where the baddie empties the whole clip at her and misses completely (huge stretch) -Girl gets shot in what looks like the heart judging by the location of the blood stain and survives... (highly unlikely)
Maybe having just one of these things happen would be okay. Having all of the above occur just drives the film to a rather absurd level. The second problem is that the "goodbye" scene among others like the "wind blowing" scenes are drawn out too long and with rather clichéd dialogue. This combined with the absurdity of other scenes makes for a rather poor second half. Some may dislike the ending but I personally had no problem with it.
The two leads both do a fine job with the material that they were given. JJH is definitely one of the best young actresses in the world and I look forward to seeing more from her. I can say that if you are a fan of JJH, you should definitely check this out. If you liked MSG, you should also give this one a go. There are lots of references to MSG that a fan can look for. If you're used to Korean melodrama you could do a lot worse than this film. However newcomers to Korean films would probably want to watch MSG over this one. Your average viewer will probably find it somewhat enjoyable largely due to the first half.
Struck by missing-ness
leekandham13 January 2005
Windstruck (2004)
Starring: Jeon Ji-hyun, Hyuk Jang Directed by: Kwak Jae-young
I don't normally do spoilers, but potentially some people may feel I've revealed too much in this review.
* WARNING: POTENTIAL SPOILERS *
As Windstruck reunites director Kwak Jae-young with Jeon Ji-hyun from the extremely popular My Sassy Girl, there will always be a comparison for fans between the two. But whilst My Sassy Girl was outstanding and indeed led to the massive break for Jeon Ji-hyun, Windstruck pales in comparison with the former, and indeed, some may end up disappointed.
Windstruck tells of a novice cop, Kyungjin (Jeon), who mistakenly arrests a stranger, Myungwoo (Hyuk Jang), believing him to be a purse snatcher. Once the mistake is realised, they both start dating, with Myungwoo feeling he has to come to the rescue of his maverick girlfriend. Sadly, one time too many and it all goes wrong as Myungwoo is killed.
Windstruck isn't as well written as MSG. Whilst there is plenty of detail in the film, with great attention paid to sets, costumes, camera angels and so on, it lacks the overall substance to carry the story. Indeed, it's hard to work out what really is the theme of the movie. The characters aren't developed enough and I didn't find enough chemistry being built up in the story before Myungwoo's death.
Windstruck is effectively broken into two parts. The first two-thirds of the movie is much about their relationship blossoming, the last third is about how she copes with his death. In their blossoming relationship, you see sparks of the humour and cleverness that made MSG a success. The ending has the melodramatic tone that actually is somewhat clichéd. But the way it's been set up, neither part ever reaches what you'd think is a completeness, and you end up thinking, we could have had more.
And that's what really bugs me about this film. It is really two full length films, spliced and edited into one. It could be a very funny falling in love romcom, or it could be a very good drama about coping with death. But wrapping the two movie themes into one leaves you thinking it didn't have enough substance. Plus the whole thing could have been more cleverly edited.
Having seen all of Jeon Ji-Hyun's movies to date, I can say that she is a very talented actress. However, the shortening and splicing does mean that I don't feel her talent has been fully used. And much the same for Hyuk Jang.
Overall, there isn't enough magic for it to match MSG nor the brilliance of Jeon Ji-hyun's other films. But having said that, for most, it is still a pretty good film and it's still worth a watch. One for a windy day.
Starring: Jeon Ji-hyun, Hyuk Jang Directed by: Kwak Jae-young
I don't normally do spoilers, but potentially some people may feel I've revealed too much in this review.
* WARNING: POTENTIAL SPOILERS *
As Windstruck reunites director Kwak Jae-young with Jeon Ji-hyun from the extremely popular My Sassy Girl, there will always be a comparison for fans between the two. But whilst My Sassy Girl was outstanding and indeed led to the massive break for Jeon Ji-hyun, Windstruck pales in comparison with the former, and indeed, some may end up disappointed.
Windstruck tells of a novice cop, Kyungjin (Jeon), who mistakenly arrests a stranger, Myungwoo (Hyuk Jang), believing him to be a purse snatcher. Once the mistake is realised, they both start dating, with Myungwoo feeling he has to come to the rescue of his maverick girlfriend. Sadly, one time too many and it all goes wrong as Myungwoo is killed.
Windstruck isn't as well written as MSG. Whilst there is plenty of detail in the film, with great attention paid to sets, costumes, camera angels and so on, it lacks the overall substance to carry the story. Indeed, it's hard to work out what really is the theme of the movie. The characters aren't developed enough and I didn't find enough chemistry being built up in the story before Myungwoo's death.
Windstruck is effectively broken into two parts. The first two-thirds of the movie is much about their relationship blossoming, the last third is about how she copes with his death. In their blossoming relationship, you see sparks of the humour and cleverness that made MSG a success. The ending has the melodramatic tone that actually is somewhat clichéd. But the way it's been set up, neither part ever reaches what you'd think is a completeness, and you end up thinking, we could have had more.
And that's what really bugs me about this film. It is really two full length films, spliced and edited into one. It could be a very funny falling in love romcom, or it could be a very good drama about coping with death. But wrapping the two movie themes into one leaves you thinking it didn't have enough substance. Plus the whole thing could have been more cleverly edited.
Having seen all of Jeon Ji-Hyun's movies to date, I can say that she is a very talented actress. However, the shortening and splicing does mean that I don't feel her talent has been fully used. And much the same for Hyuk Jang.
Overall, there isn't enough magic for it to match MSG nor the brilliance of Jeon Ji-hyun's other films. But having said that, for most, it is still a pretty good film and it's still worth a watch. One for a windy day.
MY SASSY GIRL it ain't
edoy2 September 2004
It's no secret that Korean romantic comedies of late have been in sad phase. Right after MY SASSY GIRL broke out in 2001, every romcom seems to imitate that incredible pic in various degree (the latest one, 100 DAYS WITH MR. ARROGANT, is a total crap). What makes it wrong is that Kwak Ja-young, SASSY's writer-director, tries to imitate his own masterpiece with this mediocre & overlong effort, complete with the Sassy Girl herself, Jeon Ji-hyun. And it is inevitable that people would compare both pics.
The story is about a brave-in-borderline-crazy female police officer who in the line of duty bonds with a weaker male teacher. They fall in love, but fate has it that they have to separate.
The 1st part of the movie is funny, but not as hilarious as SASSY. The 2nd part is full-on drama. The last part, well, I'm not sure where the last part actually begins. It has too many endings, too many climaxes to really work.
However, Kwak's subtle touch is there and the "dancing in the rain" send-up is funny. But this doesn't justify its 124-minute running time.
Jeon, probably the most gifted young actress in the world today, is back with her sassy persona, which is great, actually. And the lead actor, Jang Hyuk is game too. But he's no Cha Tae-hyun (SASSY's lead actor), either. And the chemistry's not there.
Oh, talking about SASSY, if you're one of the movie's fans, don't miss the final minute of the movie. I wouldn't know what your reaction would be, but it'll surely make you smile. To me, it (and the two leads' performance) almost save the movie. Almost.
**1/2 out of ****
The story is about a brave-in-borderline-crazy female police officer who in the line of duty bonds with a weaker male teacher. They fall in love, but fate has it that they have to separate.
The 1st part of the movie is funny, but not as hilarious as SASSY. The 2nd part is full-on drama. The last part, well, I'm not sure where the last part actually begins. It has too many endings, too many climaxes to really work.
However, Kwak's subtle touch is there and the "dancing in the rain" send-up is funny. But this doesn't justify its 124-minute running time.
Jeon, probably the most gifted young actress in the world today, is back with her sassy persona, which is great, actually. And the lead actor, Jang Hyuk is game too. But he's no Cha Tae-hyun (SASSY's lead actor), either. And the chemistry's not there.
Oh, talking about SASSY, if you're one of the movie's fans, don't miss the final minute of the movie. I wouldn't know what your reaction would be, but it'll surely make you smile. To me, it (and the two leads' performance) almost save the movie. Almost.
**1/2 out of ****
Great Movie
shlim_28gates29 July 2005
This movie is simply excellent. The story may be the typical Korean melodrama, but it's still a touching one nonetheless. A must watch for fans of Korean movies.
For fans of My Sassy Girl, Windstruck is also a must watch as Jun Ji Hyun is great in it. While some may say that this movie does not live up to its hype as the sequel to My Sassy Girl, I am inclined to disagree. The plot is in its own right beautiful, and there is no reason why not to catch this movie just because it is a supposed "clone" of My Sassy Girl. There are numerous easter eggs and references to My Sassy Girl here, and while I concede that some do not serve any real purpose in furthering the plot, most of them are pretty interesting, and would be instantly noticed by fans of My Sassy Girl.
It is rather long though, and at times can appear to be rather drawn out. However, it still rates as one of the best Korean movies I've ever watched.
For fans of My Sassy Girl, Windstruck is also a must watch as Jun Ji Hyun is great in it. While some may say that this movie does not live up to its hype as the sequel to My Sassy Girl, I am inclined to disagree. The plot is in its own right beautiful, and there is no reason why not to catch this movie just because it is a supposed "clone" of My Sassy Girl. There are numerous easter eggs and references to My Sassy Girl here, and while I concede that some do not serve any real purpose in furthering the plot, most of them are pretty interesting, and would be instantly noticed by fans of My Sassy Girl.
It is rather long though, and at times can appear to be rather drawn out. However, it still rates as one of the best Korean movies I've ever watched.
Editing badly needed here
revolutioner21 August 2005
This film had much promise. Some nice overhead shots of the city, a funny first encounter between the two main characters, but then it alternates between comedy, crime drama,romance and fantasy. The attempt is made several times to tug at the audience's heartstrings but how many times can this feat be successfully pulled off? By the last half hour, I just wasn't buying the "whimsy" anymore. The movie gets a marginal rec based on a good effort and an uproarious scene that takes place in the police station between a gangster and Myungwoo. Looking forward to seeing "Daisy" a film whose screenplay was written by Jae-young Kwak. If he directs again, let's hope that he'll be a little more focused and book more time in the editing room.
2 very interesting movies -- arc-welded together at the hip...
A_Different_Drummer19 December 2013
Warning: Spoilers
This is going to be one of those reviews that may unintentionally annoy die-hard fans, so let me start by saying that I have done my homework. I have seen the original My Sassy Girl in Korean twice (astonishing -- brilliant -- perfect -- one of the best romances ever filmed) as well as the various knockoffs of MSG from the US and Japan and elsewhere. I am also a huge fan of Korean cinema and indeed have reviewed a handful right here for IMDb. One of the things I absolutely love about Korean movies is that they have absolutely no respect for the standard plot twists and plot devices that most other film-makers revere, regardless of where in the world the story originates. This is usually -- emphasize the word "USUALLY" -- refreshing beyond belief as, when you have perhaps too many movies in one lifetime, you start to anticipate the narrative, and that can take the joy out of a movie very quickly. OK, with the explanation over, I have to say that this is the first Korean movie in my experience where the usual "positive" -- that lack of interest in maintaining the traditional narrative -- actually worked against the production. What you have here -- and I defy anyone to prove otherwise -- is two very different stories mig-welded at the hip. In story #1 we have what might, in some alternate universe, have passed for a sequel to the already-perfect MY SASSY GIRL, only this time Jeon Ji-hyun is a cop and her shy boyfriend risks his life -literally- every time he hangs with her. It was an interesting twist, with potential. About half-way through, we are suddenly thrust into story #2, a Korean version of GHOST, as the aforesaid boyfriend has one NDE too many, and finally shuffles off this mortal coil. And then, just as in Ghost, Jeon Ji-hyun tries to "connect" with him just one last time. Again, an interesting tale overall, and one with potential. The problem -- the flaw that keeps this from being in the same class as MSG -- is that the fitting of the two different tales is awkward. Even if the viewer has emotionally connected with the characters (not hard to do, the acting is, as expected, wonderful, and Jeon Ji-hyun is one of the most photogenic actresses on the planet) the demands the script places on you are nothing short of heroic. It is hard, so hard, to watch this beginning to end without having at least one small **WTF** moment. In short, novel, entertaining, fun, challenging. But not one of the best films of all time.
Beautiful Film
redrum_driew16 December 2004
The wind hits your face, but you shrug off the chill and continue on your way. Never once does the thought cross your mind that it might be someone you loved who is now dead and gone.
Windstruck is definitely not a comedy. Romance, Drama yes. Funny at parts, undoubtedly. But NOT a comedy.
Ji-hyun Jun and Hyuk Jang are the perfect pair and full of chemistry (although some disagree with me). The movie is sad and tear-jerking at several different scenes. I won't pretend that I know the director's style, and instead comment on the movie itself unlike most of my colleagues here.
The humor was great, and Hyuk Jang is shockingly refreshing acting opposite Ji-hyun because he actually has a backbone and is funny by himself, not funny to laugh at because he is so pitiful as in "My Sassy Girl." Unfortunately the humor goes away about half way in, and the remainder is quite depressing, with only a glimmer of hope left at the end.
Overall, I think the movie deserves a 10 out of 10, but I don't think that I ever want to see it again. Until I really want to cry....
Windstruck is definitely not a comedy. Romance, Drama yes. Funny at parts, undoubtedly. But NOT a comedy.
Ji-hyun Jun and Hyuk Jang are the perfect pair and full of chemistry (although some disagree with me). The movie is sad and tear-jerking at several different scenes. I won't pretend that I know the director's style, and instead comment on the movie itself unlike most of my colleagues here.
The humor was great, and Hyuk Jang is shockingly refreshing acting opposite Ji-hyun because he actually has a backbone and is funny by himself, not funny to laugh at because he is so pitiful as in "My Sassy Girl." Unfortunately the humor goes away about half way in, and the remainder is quite depressing, with only a glimmer of hope left at the end.
Overall, I think the movie deserves a 10 out of 10, but I don't think that I ever want to see it again. Until I really want to cry....
Two Films In One
crossbow010630 August 2010
This film is about a rogue/overzealous police officer named Kyungjin (the very attractive Gianna Jun) who mistakenly takes a person in, thinking he stole a lady's purse. He is Myungwoo (Hyuk Jang), a new physics teacher in the local girl's school. They improbably become boyfriend and girlfriend and the first half of the film has a breezy quality, mostly comedic with some dashes of gritty action. The film turns sentimental in the second half, kind of unexpectedly. The closest I can enable some understanding is the Patrick Swayze film "Ghost". To say more would give the film away. Its a date movie, and it has its moments. Ms. Jun is a very good actress, she more than carried the film and she enjoys popularity in Korea. Be prepared to laugh and even to cry. Not great, it has its charms and it is worthwhile viewing.
great movie
treestump16 July 2004
i saw this movie in Chinese so its probably a little different because translations r always a little different, but the movie is a great romantic comedy. yes, it is a bit too long at times and some scenes r obviously commercial, but its still a good film. the first hour mainly focuses on comedy and the relationship between the 2 characters. the second hour is mainly drama and how the main character deal with the tragedy.
at first i didn't expect much from this film at all, it looked like any other korean romantic comedy for teens, but it turned out much better than i expected.
at first i didn't expect much from this film at all, it looked like any other korean romantic comedy for teens, but it turned out much better than i expected.
Not as good as it could be, not bad either
wiseman-417 October 2004
I evaluate the film by how the director manages to realize his idea. In this sense 'Windstruck' didn't completely success so after all I was a bit disappointed by Kwak's latest film. This however doesn't mean the movie was that bad. It's really watchable and it's definitely a must-see for those who liked 'My Sassy Girl' no matter what people say, just go and see it, I just did so and I'm happy I did it. As many already noticed 'Windstruck' is a prequel to 'My Sassy Girl' which was definitely the best movie by Kwak Jea-young so far. And it could be a very good film, perhaps not worse than 'My Sassy Girl' itself. However it quite failed to do so and the result wasn't that good as it was supposed to. On the other hand I admit that it's not that easy to create a good prequel to a film of this genre ('romantic comedy') not to mention that it's generally very difficult to create a good film of this genre what Kwak managed to do with 'My Sassy Girl'. One of the problems is the story and characters. Jun Ji-hyun in a role of a policewoman didn't look exactly convincing even though her acting was really good. Also some rather banal and pointless situations typical to silly Hollywood 'romantic comedies' (in fact lots of them) made this film quite a disappointment compared to 'My Sassy Girl'. Although there were really good moments and as I already mention this film is not really bad. It's just not as good as it could be and I'm sure Kwak has made conclusions about his latest work. Of course this doesn't stop him being a great director and I'm sure we'll yet see more great films by him in the future.
perfect.
velene20 February 2005
Warning: Spoilers
i loved it so much! in my opinion this movie is way better than My Sassy Girl, because this movie made me laugh, it made me cry, and the acting was so sweet it tore my heart into pieces and left me in bliss.
Anyway, the movie is about this crazy and cute relationship between the guy (Jang Hyuk) and the girl (Joen Ji Hyung). they make a really cute couple. So anyway, they fall in love, and everything goes everything stays and then the guy passes away, and the girl has to deal with it. it may sound plain, but believe me, it is anything but plain.
i cried, and i laughed. no matter how beautiful it is, America please do not remake this film. it is a classic.
Anyway, the movie is about this crazy and cute relationship between the guy (Jang Hyuk) and the girl (Joen Ji Hyung). they make a really cute couple. So anyway, they fall in love, and everything goes everything stays and then the guy passes away, and the girl has to deal with it. it may sound plain, but believe me, it is anything but plain.
i cried, and i laughed. no matter how beautiful it is, America please do not remake this film. it is a classic.
Pretty good romantic comedy prequel
KineticSeoul25 December 2012
Asians tend to like melodramatic romantic movie and this is one of them. It's basically a sorta a prequel to "My Sassy Girl" except some parts from the flashback in "My Sassy Girl" doesn't fit. And some characters seems to have moved around or at least the actor and actresses in the movie that is also in the other movie. The scenarios is sort of the same except the main guy protagonist this time is played by Jang Hyuk who I am a fan of as an actor. And is a way way much more likable character than Gyun-woo(Cha Tae-Hyun). Even if his character is less tough compared to the girl he falls for. If your one of those audiences that thought "My Sassy Girl" is ridiculous with it's scenarios. This one takes it to a whole another level and it can get pretty lame sometimes. It becomes really cartoon like sometimes with it's dialogues. The first half of this movie is the build up of the relationship between Ko Myung-Woo(Jang Hyuk) and Yeo Kyung-Jin(Gianna Jun) who is a female cop in this. And it shows why she acted the way she did with getting drunk and all but some aspect just seems a bit forced in out of nowhere. Not that I think the director planned for a prequel while making "My Sassy Girl" or anything like that. If you enjoy slightly cheesy fantasy and yet realistic style comedic romantic comedy this one might be for you. Which is like in "My Sassy Girl" which I think it's a slightly better flick.
7.5/10
7.5/10
A huge disappointment
winwook22 September 2005
Warning: Spoilers
By any standard, this movie is really bad. Being a fan of My Sassy Girl, I really wanted to like it but I couldn't. It's so over-the-top with melodrama that it could be a satire. Nothing makes any sense whatsoever. I don't even know where to start. Suffice it to say, there's not even an ounce of credibility in the whole movie.
Worst of all, the movie is painfully long. This movie could have been under ninety minutes and bearable, but at over two hours, it's absolutely excruciating. Jeon Ji-hyun is fine but can't do much with the maudlin material she's given. She's basically just crying the whole second half of the movie. Jang Hyuk isn't that good and just looks kind of goofy, which was okay for Volcano High with his spiky blond hair, but doesn't really work when he's the romantic lead of this movie. There's zero chemistry between them.
Overall, this movie is a real disappointment. The final ending is just absurd and reminded me of a movie that was way, way better than the one we just saw.
Worst of all, the movie is painfully long. This movie could have been under ninety minutes and bearable, but at over two hours, it's absolutely excruciating. Jeon Ji-hyun is fine but can't do much with the maudlin material she's given. She's basically just crying the whole second half of the movie. Jang Hyuk isn't that good and just looks kind of goofy, which was okay for Volcano High with his spiky blond hair, but doesn't really work when he's the romantic lead of this movie. There's zero chemistry between them.
Overall, this movie is a real disappointment. The final ending is just absurd and reminded me of a movie that was way, way better than the one we just saw.
More of the same from Kwak Jae-young
harry_tk_yung3 June 2004
Warning: Spoilers
Spoilers warning!!!
Director Kwak's slightly off-beat yet tender love story My Sassy Girl (2001) brought the Korean romance comedy to the global cinema. Hollywood has bought its rights and has announced a project for an American remake, directed by Gurinder Chadha (Bend it like Beckham). Riding on the wave of success, Kwak brought out Classic (2003). While MSG sparkles with originality, touches with an unexpected poignancy and delight with a clever twist, Classic returns to the traditional melodrama. Both, however, carry the unmistakable mark of Kwak: utmost attention to details. Windstruck (Nae yeojachingureul sogae habnida) is more of the same thing.
Watching the first half of this is a two-hour movie, one couldn't help but wonder what Kwak has stooped to, with the run-of-the-mill police sequences, banal comedy and not-too-inspiring romance. But then, getting into the last 45 minutes, the audience was reminded that this was Kwak after all. Every little bit of detail you saw earlier that didn't register much at the time was picked up later, echoes, and had a meaning, right down to the voice-over narration in the very beginning and the very end.
Again, Kwak has played a clever game with the audience, but this time it is not quite as brilliant as MSG. After the mist is cleared, this movie is really another copy of Ghost Story and as far as that goes, who can do better than the original? This movie can also be, as suggested in its very last minute, seen very loosely as the prequel to MSG. All told, while there are some interesting elements, Windstruck is more of the same of what we have seen from Director Kwak, but not quite up to par with MSG. However, the idea on using the theme of the wind, as well as it execution, in one good element. The English title may very well be 'Inherit the Wind' (which, by the way, will be performed in town in a translated version, something eagerly looked forward to by devoted theater lovers).
Director Kwak's slightly off-beat yet tender love story My Sassy Girl (2001) brought the Korean romance comedy to the global cinema. Hollywood has bought its rights and has announced a project for an American remake, directed by Gurinder Chadha (Bend it like Beckham). Riding on the wave of success, Kwak brought out Classic (2003). While MSG sparkles with originality, touches with an unexpected poignancy and delight with a clever twist, Classic returns to the traditional melodrama. Both, however, carry the unmistakable mark of Kwak: utmost attention to details. Windstruck (Nae yeojachingureul sogae habnida) is more of the same thing.
Watching the first half of this is a two-hour movie, one couldn't help but wonder what Kwak has stooped to, with the run-of-the-mill police sequences, banal comedy and not-too-inspiring romance. But then, getting into the last 45 minutes, the audience was reminded that this was Kwak after all. Every little bit of detail you saw earlier that didn't register much at the time was picked up later, echoes, and had a meaning, right down to the voice-over narration in the very beginning and the very end.
Again, Kwak has played a clever game with the audience, but this time it is not quite as brilliant as MSG. After the mist is cleared, this movie is really another copy of Ghost Story and as far as that goes, who can do better than the original? This movie can also be, as suggested in its very last minute, seen very loosely as the prequel to MSG. All told, while there are some interesting elements, Windstruck is more of the same of what we have seen from Director Kwak, but not quite up to par with MSG. However, the idea on using the theme of the wind, as well as it execution, in one good element. The English title may very well be 'Inherit the Wind' (which, by the way, will be performed in town in a translated version, something eagerly looked forward to by devoted theater lovers).
Had Potential but Largely Disappointing
unspellablenick10 June 2008
Warning: Spoilers
Let me explain why I was disappointed with this film. The reason I've analysed in so much detail was to try and understand exactly why I felt this way about a movie which, on the surface, seems pretty good. Windstruck has all of the elements required to be a fantastic melodramatic film. There are two believable characters, a romance, lots of action, a recurring theme (wind), memorable lines, an untimely death and plenty of emotional moments. Every box is ticked, yet it feels as if there is something missing...
The director has tried to combine several different genres into one movie, and when you're trying to do a lot of things at once then you need to take extra care that the transitions are seamless and the story follows logically and at a suitable pace. The first thing a successful love tragedy has to do is introduce characters which the viewer cares about, and then create a convincing relationship between them. If the audience doesn't feel that emotional involvement then the story will fall flat, no matter how beautiful or touching the upcoming action may be. Creating this sort of background usually takes several scenes in which the characters meet, get to know each other, hang out together and ultimately realise that they have feelings for each other. A movie such as MSG does this brilliantly.
For me, Windstruck fell down on the above point by not spending enough time introducing the characters and their relationship. The supposed "bond" built between the two leads is never explained or explored in enough depth. One minute they are sleeping in handcuffs after spending the night running around, and in the next scene they are suddenly boyfriend/girlfriend. Fastforward another two scenes and they are inexplicably traveling around the countryside in a recently purchased motor vehicle, and seem to share a love as deep as if they had been married for several years. While we are still trying to process this turn of events, there is a sudden car crash merely minutes later and Myungwoo almost dies! Although many have criticised the film for being too long, in these first few chapters Windstruck moves far too quickly to create a real and credible connection. This causes problems later on because Kyungjin's reaction seems exaggerated compared to the extent of their relationship.
A related aspect to this is the 'emotional pacing' of the film. A skilled director understands that to create genuinely moving melodramatic moments there needs to be a balance between emotional scenes and other plot development scenes. Graphically, it should look like this __/\__/\__/\__ where the emotional tension builds to a climax and is then released before building up again. You cannot keep people interested if you ask them to remain in a state of extended high emotion. After the car crash, Windstruck attempts to do exactly this with a plethora of lengthy emotional scenes one after the other. Before you've even recovered from Myungwoo's near death in the car crash, he's down on the ground AGAIN. A scene where the girl cradles her dying lover in her arms is very powerful, but you can only use it ONCE per movie! After a while it all becomes a bit too much. Even those who initially sympathised with the characters may find themselves withdrawing emotionally and wondering "when is she going to stop crying?" or "dammit, is she ever gonna die?"
Another area in which this film contrasts with other movies of this genre is the difference between showing and telling. Telling is when the main character says "I am sad". Showing is when the director demonstrates through actions, events, montages or even facial expressions that the character is sad. Now, being a huge fan of Shunji Iwai, I concede that I am biased in favour of films which leave the interpretation up to the viewer and convey strong emotional scenes without excessive dialogue. For me, the most powerful scenes are the ones in which simple or seemingly trivial actions/events take on a special meaning and become beautiful because of the context and the action leading up to it. There is too much telling or narrating in Windstruck, when the same points could have otherwise been made more powerfully. At times it seemed the only way Kyungjin could express her grief was by crying and screaming out her dead lover's name.
The next problem is credibility. The reason why I don't like action films as a genre is because of the sheer implausibility of most of the story. Hero is involved in XYZ dangerous situations and miraculously escapes unscathed, and just when you think he is finally dead he STILL lives to save the day. Yawn. It's boring because no matter how terrifying the scenario, you already know that hero won't die. I call bs in several scenes in Windstruck, most notably when Kyungjin suicide jumps on top of a balloon, survives after being shot in the heart at point blank range, and "miraculously" avoids being shot in multiple gun battles with criminals. There are also plot holes surrounding Kyungjin's work and general police conduct, as well as the lack of investigation after she was implicated in Myungwoo's death.
I was also disappointed with the introduction of a paranormal element into the story, because it killed any sense of ambiguity or metaphorical beauty brought about by the wind scenes. Once again, the director decided to "tell" instead of show with a lengthy and unnecessary goodbye moment.
Now that I've spent the last few paragraphs bashing various elements of the plot and structure, unfortunately I've run out of words to talk about the things I like. Put briefly, the music is great, the acting and special effects are good throughout and there are some nice touches of humour at certain points.
Hopefully this explains to some people why I (and others) don't rate this nearly as highly as other Korean melodramas such as MSG or Failan.
The director has tried to combine several different genres into one movie, and when you're trying to do a lot of things at once then you need to take extra care that the transitions are seamless and the story follows logically and at a suitable pace. The first thing a successful love tragedy has to do is introduce characters which the viewer cares about, and then create a convincing relationship between them. If the audience doesn't feel that emotional involvement then the story will fall flat, no matter how beautiful or touching the upcoming action may be. Creating this sort of background usually takes several scenes in which the characters meet, get to know each other, hang out together and ultimately realise that they have feelings for each other. A movie such as MSG does this brilliantly.
For me, Windstruck fell down on the above point by not spending enough time introducing the characters and their relationship. The supposed "bond" built between the two leads is never explained or explored in enough depth. One minute they are sleeping in handcuffs after spending the night running around, and in the next scene they are suddenly boyfriend/girlfriend. Fastforward another two scenes and they are inexplicably traveling around the countryside in a recently purchased motor vehicle, and seem to share a love as deep as if they had been married for several years. While we are still trying to process this turn of events, there is a sudden car crash merely minutes later and Myungwoo almost dies! Although many have criticised the film for being too long, in these first few chapters Windstruck moves far too quickly to create a real and credible connection. This causes problems later on because Kyungjin's reaction seems exaggerated compared to the extent of their relationship.
A related aspect to this is the 'emotional pacing' of the film. A skilled director understands that to create genuinely moving melodramatic moments there needs to be a balance between emotional scenes and other plot development scenes. Graphically, it should look like this __/\__/\__/\__ where the emotional tension builds to a climax and is then released before building up again. You cannot keep people interested if you ask them to remain in a state of extended high emotion. After the car crash, Windstruck attempts to do exactly this with a plethora of lengthy emotional scenes one after the other. Before you've even recovered from Myungwoo's near death in the car crash, he's down on the ground AGAIN. A scene where the girl cradles her dying lover in her arms is very powerful, but you can only use it ONCE per movie! After a while it all becomes a bit too much. Even those who initially sympathised with the characters may find themselves withdrawing emotionally and wondering "when is she going to stop crying?" or "dammit, is she ever gonna die?"
Another area in which this film contrasts with other movies of this genre is the difference between showing and telling. Telling is when the main character says "I am sad". Showing is when the director demonstrates through actions, events, montages or even facial expressions that the character is sad. Now, being a huge fan of Shunji Iwai, I concede that I am biased in favour of films which leave the interpretation up to the viewer and convey strong emotional scenes without excessive dialogue. For me, the most powerful scenes are the ones in which simple or seemingly trivial actions/events take on a special meaning and become beautiful because of the context and the action leading up to it. There is too much telling or narrating in Windstruck, when the same points could have otherwise been made more powerfully. At times it seemed the only way Kyungjin could express her grief was by crying and screaming out her dead lover's name.
The next problem is credibility. The reason why I don't like action films as a genre is because of the sheer implausibility of most of the story. Hero is involved in XYZ dangerous situations and miraculously escapes unscathed, and just when you think he is finally dead he STILL lives to save the day. Yawn. It's boring because no matter how terrifying the scenario, you already know that hero won't die. I call bs in several scenes in Windstruck, most notably when Kyungjin suicide jumps on top of a balloon, survives after being shot in the heart at point blank range, and "miraculously" avoids being shot in multiple gun battles with criminals. There are also plot holes surrounding Kyungjin's work and general police conduct, as well as the lack of investigation after she was implicated in Myungwoo's death.
I was also disappointed with the introduction of a paranormal element into the story, because it killed any sense of ambiguity or metaphorical beauty brought about by the wind scenes. Once again, the director decided to "tell" instead of show with a lengthy and unnecessary goodbye moment.
Now that I've spent the last few paragraphs bashing various elements of the plot and structure, unfortunately I've run out of words to talk about the things I like. Put briefly, the music is great, the acting and special effects are good throughout and there are some nice touches of humour at certain points.
Hopefully this explains to some people why I (and others) don't rate this nearly as highly as other Korean melodramas such as MSG or Failan.
Windstruck better than My Sassy Girl
jxl01a8 October 2005
I've watched both movies and Windstruck is better!!! I liked My Sassy Girl but Windstruck was the much better emotional roller-coaster. Their love seemed much more real and intense. It's a story about great and true love transcending death. And the fact that even through all the heartache, being able to let go of the pain and to find the strength to live again.
Others may not like it as much, but you don't give it a fair chance. Just because My Sassy Girl came first doesn't make it better! I highly recommend this movie whether you've seen My Sassy Girl or not! And Yes Its no My Sassy Girl, Its Windstruck! A great and different love story. So stop comparing the two.
Others may not like it as much, but you don't give it a fair chance. Just because My Sassy Girl came first doesn't make it better! I highly recommend this movie whether you've seen My Sassy Girl or not! And Yes Its no My Sassy Girl, Its Windstruck! A great and different love story. So stop comparing the two.
Good companion piece to 'My Sassy Girl'
gorgonite24 September 2007
Warning: Spoilers
Windstruck stars Jeon Ji Hyun who plays a headstrong Policewoman on the streets of Korea. Girl meets Boy, Boy meets Girl, order and chaos ensues!
The film is frustrating because it has a lot of potential to be as good as My Sassy Girl. Both films incorporate comedy, romance, sci-fi and action but Windstruck does not pull it off seamlessly. This and some other faults mean that the film is not as enjoyable to watch, however where the film succeeds is the link to My Sassy Girl which is open to interpretation.
Pros - Very good cinematography, plot, and acting
Cons - Melodrama is over the top, editing and music score could be improved, lead characters need some more development
Overall - Given a bit more polish in the character and editing department + liberal sprinkling of magic, this could have been as good as MSG. Frustrating!!!
************************** Spoiler below *************************
I like the last scene and think it's a necessary part of the film.
The film is frustrating because it has a lot of potential to be as good as My Sassy Girl. Both films incorporate comedy, romance, sci-fi and action but Windstruck does not pull it off seamlessly. This and some other faults mean that the film is not as enjoyable to watch, however where the film succeeds is the link to My Sassy Girl which is open to interpretation.
Pros - Very good cinematography, plot, and acting
Cons - Melodrama is over the top, editing and music score could be improved, lead characters need some more development
Overall - Given a bit more polish in the character and editing department + liberal sprinkling of magic, this could have been as good as MSG. Frustrating!!!
************************** Spoiler below *************************
I like the last scene and think it's a necessary part of the film.
My Favourite Movie Ever
prodigy_of_dreams5 July 2006
I won't repeat what others have said previously, the praises have been stated already and the criticisms are mostly from those who obviously just cannot appreciate something of this genre. The MSG comparisons are ridiculous and need to stop, and besides too many criticisms are from people who are simply disappointed that they wanted something like My Sassy Girl and didn't get it. Yes, there are some MSG references included for the amusement of fans, but this is no prequel. This film stands on its own, and does it beautifully. I don't understand those who say the two stars have no chemistry; I thought the chemistry was natural, not only totally believable but FEELable. Generally I'd say you would have to be a heartless, soulless, kitten-drowning troll not to enjoy this movie at all. But it's certainly worth the watch to find out.
Nice-Try Romence, disturbed by the slow second-half and the silliness of spirit-wind
yudi-hardeos19 September 2011
Warning: Spoilers
From beginning, the movie is so promising, it has quick plot, suspense and good sense of humor. Actually this is a simple romance story about guiltiness, eternal love and many thing. I guess the duration is too long, many slow part should be cut in order to form the movie to be a packed-good-romance thing. From the first part, the movie guides the audience to expect fast-plot or intense-heart-romance-conflict. But the expectation might be disturbed by too long melancholic romance till some of audience might be bored. Overall anyway the movie is great, i am not going to be a cruel reviewer to ignore the warmness and big heart of the movie.
The movie was awesome
Misss251 April 2021
It's actually great
vikaskundbi9 May 2021
Okay just like anyone even I said this is just average and not comparable to my sassy girl but when I watched it the second time, my opinion has changed and I watched it 3 more times later on. This is actually a great film with a great story. As an audience we have to concentrate on the film and not compare to my sassy girl. Only then you'll understand the full potential of the film.
My all-time favorite South Korean movie
alesaenz-4800312 February 2021
This movie has it all, comedy, romance, action, drama. You'll laugh, you'll cry, you'll get amazed, and you'll never feel the wind the same anymore. A fearless police officer meets a kind-hearted teacher, and their lives weren't the same. Do you want to enjoy a romance film? You need to try an Asian movie and this one is the best that I can recommend you, and trust me that I have seen a lot of Asian films and this one keeps truly close to my heart. Let yourself get struck by the wonderful wind of this story.
Cute but it's okay
phd_travel31 May 2020
Gianna Jun and Jang Hyuk are natural comedians. That makes the pairing work. In the hands of some others it may have seemed painful during the more slapstick parts but with them it's okay. The story about a cop and teacher is watchable if dated. Things seem to jump from one thing to another abruptly crime to comedy to fairytale fantasy to accident. Randomly pieces together. The death is irritating since had no business being there. The second part after the death is weaker. With her death wish shooting. Relieved when she got shot.
one of the worst movies ever
yutopia711 December 2005
Warning: Spoilers
i'm glad there are people who hated this film. This movie is indeed horrible. Jeon Ji hyun posing as an action star was an equivalent of say.. Lindsay Lohan starring in the next Die Hard. This movie did financially well because of star power, not the quality of the film.
regarding the abuse taken the guy takes from the girl, I must agree it's ridiculous. I enjoyed My Sassy Girl because it was realistic (to a degree), relatable, etc. but getting burned on the lips? that's absurd. It's not funny if you think about it.
The structure of the movie is awesomely bad. The story doesn't simply flow and we get a very little character development. The characters in this movie just explains their emotions through dumb clichéd dialogues instead of showing it, which shows why the events in the movie are extremely corny. This film insults the audiences' intelligence. I know this movie is no Romeo and Juliet, but it doesn't mean I can't criticize the film. For all of you who enjoyed this film, provide a convincing argument about why you think this movie is good other than the fact the jeon ji hyun is an eye candy (which I agree).
Don't take me wrong. I do enjoy B-rated flicks and films that explores, or uses supernaturals as a background. Good B-rated movies are thoughtful and doesn't depend on the inexplainable story direction to make the movie unpredictable and enjoyable.
Sorry for being different, but I take every movie seriously because I believe they deserve it.
regarding the abuse taken the guy takes from the girl, I must agree it's ridiculous. I enjoyed My Sassy Girl because it was realistic (to a degree), relatable, etc. but getting burned on the lips? that's absurd. It's not funny if you think about it.
The structure of the movie is awesomely bad. The story doesn't simply flow and we get a very little character development. The characters in this movie just explains their emotions through dumb clichéd dialogues instead of showing it, which shows why the events in the movie are extremely corny. This film insults the audiences' intelligence. I know this movie is no Romeo and Juliet, but it doesn't mean I can't criticize the film. For all of you who enjoyed this film, provide a convincing argument about why you think this movie is good other than the fact the jeon ji hyun is an eye candy (which I agree).
Don't take me wrong. I do enjoy B-rated flicks and films that explores, or uses supernaturals as a background. Good B-rated movies are thoughtful and doesn't depend on the inexplainable story direction to make the movie unpredictable and enjoyable.
Sorry for being different, but I take every movie seriously because I believe they deserve it.
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