Cast
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Kim Soo-ro
as Dong-cheol
Lee Sun-kyun
as Min-ho
Go Eun-ah
as Tae-hee
Kang Kyung-hun
as Dong-cheol's wife
Oh Man-seok
as Sponge
Go Seo-hee
as Min-ju's mother
Park Yoo-Sun
as Eun-Dong
Park Jin-Taek
as Detective Woo
Hong Seong-bo
as (uncredited)
Won Jong Rye
as (uncredited)
Jang Suk-won
as young man (uncredited)
Crew
Director
- Kim Tae-yun
Writer
- Ki Seung-tae
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
A Cruel Attendance represents a fascinating example of Crime cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on the human experience and societal structures. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.
Director Kim Tae-yun 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 2006, 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 A Cruel Attendance took approximately 30 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 108 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 157 minutes long.
- The film contains approximately 2094 individual shots.
- The screenplay went through 13 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 9 months to complete.
Historical Context
- In 2006, when this film is released:
- Environmental concerns were becoming more mainstream.
- Digital technology was disrupting traditional media and entertainment.
- Digital filmmaking technologies were transforming production processes and creating new opportunities.
How This Film Stands Out
While A Cruel Attendance shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Alpha Dog, which focuses more on action than character development, A Cruel Attendance offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Vantage Point and The Taking of Pelham One Two Three explore similar territory, A Cruel Attendance stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
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: November 2, 2006
- Runtime: 1h 48m
