UNLOCKED (2023) Movie Review

Movie: Unlocked

Cast: Im si-wan, Chun Woo-hee, Kim Ye-Won, Park Ho-San, Kim Joo-Ryong, Oh Hyun-Kyung, Kim hee-won, Hae-yeon Gil.

Director: Kim Tae-Joon

Distributed by: Netflix, CJ ENM

Release date: 17 Feb 2023

REVIEW

In today’s digital age, our smartphones have become almost inseparable extensions of ourselves, as we rely on them for so many daily tasks. However, this also means that our phones hold a wealth of personal data, some of which can be highly sensitive and dangerous in the wrong hands. "Unlocked," Netflix’s newest Korean release, directed by Kim Tae-Joon, adapts the popular Japanese film “Stolen Identity,” bringing Korean sensibilities to this real-world problem. The movie starts with a stylish montage showcasing just how much we depend on our smartphones, as we meet Lee Na-mi, who forgets her phone on the bus after a night of partying and drinking. Unfortunately, the phone is picked up by Oh Jun-Yeong, a skilled hacker who gains access to its data and begins using it to wreak havoc on Na-mi's life.

Although it seems like simple stalker behavior at first, it soon becomes clear that Oh Jun-Yeong's actions are much more sinister and reveal an ugly truth about his activities. Meanwhile, detective Woo Ji-man is investigating a potential serial killer case in town that may have a connection to his estranged son, whom he hasn't seen for years. "Unlocked" is a sophisticated look at the extent to which an individual with malicious intent can achieve with access to your phone's password, as Jun-Yeong uses Na-mi's information to turn her life upside down in a scarily effective and eerily real way.

The movie blends this very real issue with the serial killer subplot quite effectively without making it feel disjointed, and Chun Woo-Hee's casting as Lee Na-mi is a definite highlight. She makes Na-mi a relatable and likable character, with her performance bringing out her sweet side when talking with her father and best friend, while also showcasing her fear and eventual resolute fierceness in the climax. However, the casting of Imsi-wan as Oh Jun-Yeong is an oddity, as it gives away in the latter half when his ruthlessness and evilness are supposed to come to the fore. Kimhee –won's performance as detective Woo Ji-man is effective, while Park Ho-San is charming as Na-mi's father.

"Unlocked" scores technically with its pleasant and bright cinematography, with on-screen graphics often used to depict phone use. The handheld close-quarters camerawork used when Jun-Yeong is spying through the camera on Na-mi's device effectively puts across the gravity of the situation. The music also suits the genre, with its use being particularly impressive in the scene where Oh Jun-Yeong is cornered by Woo Ji-man and his partner on the street. However, the editing could have been crisper, as a few minutes off the runtime would work a lot better for this narrative.

Overall, "Unlocked" is an impressive thriller that incorporates a strong social message convincingly, daring viewers to look at their phones and not be paranoid about their personal data for days after the credits roll. Without having seen the Japanese original, it is evident that Kim Tae-Joon is a name to keep on your radar, and Chun Woo-Hee once again impresses in a production that is both engaging and thought-provoking.

It seems like you are comparing a Japanese movie with its remake or adaptation, and that you found the thriller component of the remake to be better. You also felt that the actors did a good job, but that there was room for more intense scenes. However, as a thriller movie, you found it lacked a bit of maniacal intensity. You also mention that while it was a decent experience the first time, you wouldn't rewatch it.

My Rating : 6.5/10