Only God Forgives (2013) Review in 2025
A dark, atmospheric, and visually stunning neo-noir thriller set in Bangkok, following the story of a brother seeking revenge for his brother's death.
Family-Friendly Rating
Is this movie suitable for family viewing?
Not recommended for family viewing due to graphic violence, mature themes, and explicit content.
CineReview Recommendation
Recommended for fans of neo-noir thrillers, action movies, and visually stunning cinema. However, viewer discretion is advised due to graphic violence and mature themes.
Spoiler Alert!
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The movie delves into the world of organized crime, corruption, and the blurred lines between good and evil, as the protagonist, Julian, navigates a complex web of relationships and confronts his own demons.
Review Details
story8.00/10
The story is engaging and well-paced, with a complex narrative that explores themes of revenge, redemption, and the human condition. However, some plot twists may feel predictable to some viewers.
acting9.00/10
The acting is superb, with Ryan Gosling delivering a nuanced and emotionally charged performance. The supporting cast is also impressive, particularly Vithaya Pansringarm as the enigmatic and menacing Chang.
characters8.50/10
The characters are well-developed and complex, with Ryan Gosling delivering a standout performance as the brooding and enigmatic Julian. The supporting cast is also impressive, particularly Kristin Scott Thomas as the ruthless and cunning Crystal.
direction9.00/10
Nicolas Winding Refn's direction is masterful, with a keen eye for visual detail and a deep understanding of the film's themes. The pacing is well-balanced, with a mix of intense action sequences and quiet, introspective moments.
cinematography9.50/10
The cinematography is stunning, with a muted color palette and a focus on high-contrast lighting. The camerawork is often innovative and experimental, adding to the film's overall sense of unease and tension.
Pros and Cons
Pros
Stunning cinematography, complex characters, and a thought-provoking storyline make Only God Forgives a must-see for fans of the genre.
Cons
Some viewers may find the pacing slow or the violence gratuitous. Additionally, the film's themes and tone may not appeal to all audiences.
Notable Quotes
"I'm not a man, I'm a ghost."
"You're a ghost, I'm a ghost. We're both ghosts."
"You're a man, you're a man, you're a man. You're a man, you're a man, you're a man."
