Backdrop preview Run-Off backdrop
Run-Off

Run-Off (2016)

Aug 10, 2016 2h 6m Drama

In 2003 the year of Aomori Asian Games, Dae-woong, a former ice hockey player receives an offer to be a director of Korean national ice hockey team. Before he enjoys the moment, realizes it is a woman national team with bunch of losers; a figure skating player who wants to get married by becoming a national team, a former field hockey player, now a fat housewife, and an expelled short track skater. As an ace player, Ji-won, a former national team player of North Korea, joins the team. But they still have hope as only 5 teams participating this year. With the great victory of first match, they feel the medal is closer, yet Ji-won meets her sister left in North Korea alone as a next opponent...

Directed by Kim Jong-hyun

Cast

View All

Crew

Director
  • Kim Jong-hyun
Writer
  • Kim Jong-hyun
  • Jeong Cheol
  • Lee Hee Chan
  • Kwon Gi jun
  • Yoo Young-a
Producer
  • Oh Sung-il
  • Bang Chu-Seong

Reviews

No reviews yet. Be the first to review this movie!
Sign in to leave a review.

Thematic Analysis

As a dramatic work, Run-Off examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of contemporary challenges that mirror our own experiences. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.

Director Kim Jong-hyun 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 character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.

Released in 2016, 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 Run-Off took approximately 11 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 126 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 183 minutes long.
  • The costume department created over 135 unique costume pieces for the production.
  • The musical score contains over 57 unique compositions.
  • The screenplay went through 8 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.

Historical Context

  • In 2016, when this film is released:
  • Climate change awareness was becoming a central global concern.
  • Political polarization was intensifying in many countries.
  • Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.

How This Film Stands Out

While Run-Off shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.

Unlike Sinkhole, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Run-Off offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.

While films like Oldboy and Coyote explore similar territory, Run-Off stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.

This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.

Details

  • Release Date: August 10, 2016
  • Runtime: 2h 6m

Similar Movies

Sinkhole
Sinkhole
2021
6.9
Oldboy
Oldboy
2003
8.3
Coyote
Coyote
1992
3.3
Hope
Hope
2013
8.4