The latest film to emerge from Korean director Jang Jae-hyun, “Exhuma”, is a haunting narrative that weaves a tapestry of terror and tradition. It sends shivers down the spine with its riveting plunge into the supernatural set within the eerie wooded landscapes near the Demilitarized Zone separating North and South Korea. The movie is a skillful amalgamation of the somber and the sacred, cleverly merging various strands of horror to uncover the spectral remnants of the region’s colonial history.
“Exhuma” artfully unites the grim aspects of the horror genre with an intricate portrayal of Korea’s cultural heritage, a proven recipe for cinematic success. The story unfolds around a pair of shaman siblings, Hwa-rim, portrayed by Kim Go-eun, and Bong-gil, played by Lee Do-hyun, who are called upon by an affluent Korean immigrant family whose newborn son is tormented by a sinister presence. Their task is bolstered by the wisdom of veteran geomancer Sang-deok, mesmerizingly enacted by Choi Min-sik, with the assistance of his Christian understudy Yeong-geun, depicted by Yoo Hae-jin. This unlikely team comes together in a mix of camaraderie and mystical prowess that recalls the dynamic of a Korean Ghostbusters crew, igniting the screen with their mission to peel back layers of concealed truths.
With show-stealing performances, the enigmatic Go-eun encapsulates a blend of youthful optimism and a daring spirit while Min-sik’s seasoned pragmatism anchors the plot in the realms of experience. They create a juxtaposition of ideologies that sparks off a fascinating chemistry, acting as the cornerstone of the narrative.
The film borrows from the rich tradition of East Asian folk horror, resonating with the atmospheric tension and the storytelling finesse of venerated films such as “The Wailing” and “Incantation”. It captures similar themes of a reality tinged with fear and suspense, perfectly crafted in a way that makes the boundary between the ordinary and the paranormal unsettlingly indistinct. “Exhuma” secures its spot as a ghastly new entry in the annals of folk horror.
A definitive feature that distinguishes “Exhuma” is its intricate cultural symbolism infused into its framework. Whereas acclaimed filmmaker Na Hong-jin merely scratches the surface of Korean folklore, “Exhuma” delves further, revealing the nation’s historic belief systems and practices — spanning shamanism, Buddhism, Christianity, and regional customs including feng shui and cremation rites. Even though familiarity with Korean spirituality enriches the viewing experience, the film excels in making these complex beliefs accessible to the audience, consequently amplifying the horror that beckons viewers to explore these depths further.
The narrative also thoughtfully reflects upon the enduring wounds of colonialism, with particular emphasis on the afflictions borne from the Japanese occupation during the Second World War. It challenges the audience to confront Japan’s oppressive legacy, woven into the film’s fabric from an opening scene encounter between a flight attendant and Hwa-rim.
Yet, for all its cultural and historical weight, “Exhuma” remains a versatile horror story that intrigues fans of all subgenres. The movie is ingeniously split into two segments, transitioning from the conventional terrain of exorcism terrors into a surprising monster flick, captivating audiences with its unique storytelling approach.
A visual and auditory gem, the film stands as a tribute to the efficacy of practical effects and compelling sound design. The grotesque ‘anima’ it features would petrify even the staunchest fans of ominous lore, while the immersive score of traditional shamanic rites, complete with expert swordsmanship, vibrant regalia, and the rhythmic pounding of buk drums, mesmerizes and enthralls.
Although “Exhuma” may at times meander slightly with its pacing, drawing out its narrative more than seems necessary, its thematic richness and narrative complexity offer ample compensation for any perceived protraction. While it may not fit the mold of traditional horror, it need not do so when the overall story is captivating enough to draw audiences into its depths. With a mastery of cultural authenticity, historical poignancy, and classic genre techniques, “Exhuma” is an experience that offers far more than initially meets the eye.
Currently showing in theatres, “Exhuma” is a must-see for followers of world cinema and enthusiasts of the riveting and the revelatory alike.
