Cast
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Ryoo Seung-bum
as Sang-hwan
Yoon Soy
as Wi-jin
Ahn Sung-ki
as Ja-woon
Jung Doo-hong
as Heuk-woon
Yun Ju-Sang
as Mu-woon
Ahn Kil-kang
as Kkang Tong
Baek Chan-Ki
as Sul-Woon
Lee Won
as Sun-Dong
Lee Oi-soo
as Baek-Poong
Kim Dong-joo
as Sang-hwan's Mother
Im Ha-ryong
as Police Chief
Bong Tae-gyu
as Police Officer Bong
Park Yoon-Bae
as Police Sgt. Choi
Kim Hyo-Seon
as TV Hostess (uncredited)
Woo Jung-kook
as Drain Pipe Worker 1 (uncredited)
Crew
Director
- Ryoo Seung-wan
Writer
- Ryoo Seung-wan
- Eun Ji-hie
- You Sun-dong
- Lee Hae-jun
- Lee Hae-young
Producer
- Chun-yeong Lee
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
This high-octane Fantasy/Action/Comedy/Thriller film balances spectacular sequences with character-driven moments. Unlike many films in the genre, Arahan distinguishes itself through a unique visual style and creative action choreography.
Director Ryoo Seung-wan brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 2004, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Arahan took approximately 24 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 114 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 134 minutes long.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- The costume department created over 225 unique costume pieces for the production.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 6 weeks before filming began.
Historical Context
- In 2004, when this film is released:
- The September 11 attacks changed global security and politics.
- Social media platforms were beginning to transform communication.
- Digital filmmaking technologies were transforming production processes and creating new opportunities.
How This Film Stands Out
While Arahan shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike King Kung Fu, which focuses more on action than character development, Arahan subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Mulan and Immortal Fist: The Legend of Wing Chun explore similar territory, Arahan stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: April 30, 2004
- Runtime: 1h 54m
