Film ′Revolver′ Fires Cold and Hot, Like Loaded Gun

▲ This still photo from film "Revolver," directed by Oh Seung-wook and starring Jeon Do-yeon, Ji Chang-wook and Lim Ji-yeon, is provided by Plus M Entertainment on Aug. 1, 2024. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)

SEOUL, Aug. 1 (Yonhap) -- Invited to the 68th Cannes International Film Festival, director Oh Seung-wook's "The Shameless" (2015) portrayed an unyielding belief in humanity that persists even when utterly trampled by a ruthless world.

This was brilliantly expressed through the irreplaceable performance of actress Jeon Do-yeon.

Director Oh once again places Jeon Do-yeon at the center of a merciless world in his new film "Revolver." The story begins with Soo-young (played by Jeon Do-yeon), a former detective who took the fall alone for covering up illegal activities at entertainment establishments and spent two years in prison. Soo-young accepted the imprisonment with the promise of a significant reward upon release. However, those who made the promise are nowhere to be found, and Soo-young must start by tracking them down.

The people she eventually finds laugh off her demands for the promised reward, treating her as a joke. Fueled by anger, Soo-young embarks on a life-risking quest to claim what is rightfully hers. Her solitary charge against those with wealth and power appears almost unrealistic.

▲ This still photo of lead actress Jeon Do-yeon of film "Revolver," directed by Oh Seung-wook, is provided by Plus M Entertainment on Aug. 1, 2024. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)

In "Revolver," Jeon Do-yeon's performance drives the narrative from start to finish. Her icy expression, filled with fiery anger, dominates the screen. Director Oh mentioned, "I discovered a new face of Jeon Do-yeon."

The plot thickens with the introduction of Yoon-sun (played by Lim Ji-yeon), who adds mystery and humor to the otherwise heavy and dark storyline. Lim Ji-yeon's portrayal of Yoon-sun, a character hardened by a ruthless world yet retaining her humanity, is noteworthy.

Although "Revolver" increases the action as it approaches its climax, the story mainly unfolds through character dialogue. This narrative choice sometimes reduces the tension as Soo-young gets closer to the core of her betrayers. However, the passionate performances of the actors compensate for this.

Additionally, Lee Jung-jae's cameo appearance adds to the film's appeal. Despite not being the lead, he plays a significant role and delivers an impressive performance. Jeon Hye-jin, the wife of the late actor Lee Seon-kyun, also makes a special appearance as Andy's sister.

During the press screening on the 31st, director Oh stated, "What Soo-young ultimately gains is herself. It's a story about a person who was disregarded as invisible, finding her flesh, blood, and bones."

In a summer dominated by male-led Korean films like "Hijacking," "Handsome Guys," "Escape," and "Escape: Project Silence," "Revolver" stands out with its female lead. The film will be released on August 7, with a runtime of 114 minutes and a 15+ age rating.

▲ From left: Korean lead actors Lim Ji-yeon, Jeon Do-yeon, Ji Chang-wook and director Oh Seung-wook pose for photos at the media conference for film "Revolver" held in Seoul on July 31, 2024. (Yonhap)

Film 'Revolver' Fires Cold and Hot, Like Loaded Gun