Exhuma

Exhuma is a South Korean horror film that premiered on 16 February 2024 at the 74th Berlin International Film Festival. Directed and written by Jang Jae-hyun, the film stars renowned actors Choi Min-sik, Kim Go-eun, Yoo Hae-jin, and Lee Do-hyun. The film features themes of mystery and the supernatural, centering around the excavation of a grave that uncovers dark secrets.

The storyline follows a wealthy Korean American family who seeks help from a shaman named Hwa-rim and her apprentice Bong-gil to cure a mysterious illness afflicting their newborn son. Hwa-rim discovers that the child's condition stems from a vengeful spirit haunting the family due to an improperly buried ancestor. To appease the spirit, they decide to relocate the ancestor's grave, but this task brings unintended consequences.

The film was officially released in theaters in South Korea on 22 February 2024 and has been well-received by audiences and critics alike, earning over US$97 million worldwide. This impressive box office performance positions Exhuma as the highest-grossing South Korean film of 2024 and the sixth highest-grossing South Korean film of all time.

Hwa-rim, played by Kim Go-eun, teams up with a feng shui master, Sang-deok, and a mortician, Yeong-geun, to carry out the grave relocation. The journey reveals layers of family secrets, spiritual battles, and the haunting influence of Korea's turbulent history. As they dig deeper, they unleash not just the spirit of the ancestor but also encounter unexpected supernatural forces that threaten their lives.

The film has received praise for its captivating performances and realistic portrayal of Korean shamanistic rituals. Critics have highlighted the film's ability to blend horror with cultural depth, although some pointed out that the plot occasionally struggles to maintain coherence.

Main Cast:

• Choi Min-sik as Kim Sang-deok, the feng shui master
• Kim Go-eun as Lee Hwa-rim, the shaman
• Yoo Hae-jin as Yeong-geun, the mortician
• Lee Do-hyun as Yoon Bong-gil, the apprentice shaman

In terms of critical reception, the film holds a strong approval rating of 93% on Rotten Tomatoes. Reviewers have commended the film's exploration of cultural themes, as well as its gripping atmosphere and thrilling sequences.

Exhuma was created with a commitment to authenticity, using real locations and minimal special effects to enhance the storytelling experience. The filmmakers aimed to create a grounded horror film that resonates with audiences on multiple levels, both emotionally and culturally.

The film has not only captivated viewers in South Korea but has also drawn attention in international markets, indicating a growing interest in Korean cinema’s unique narrative style and visual storytelling. As it continues to screen at various film festivals worldwide, Exhuma is poised to make a lasting impact on the horror genre and Korean film landscape.