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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

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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

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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 19 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 173 minutes long.
  • The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
  • The musical score contains over 55 unique compositions.
  • The cast underwent specialized training for 6 weeks before filming began.

Historical Context

  • In 2016, when this film is released:
  • Streaming services were revolutionizing film and television consumption.
  • Smartphones and social media had transformed daily life and communication.
  • 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 focuses more on action than character development, Run-Off subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.

While films like Oldboy and Coyote explore similar territory, Run-Off stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.

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

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