Shadow (2013) Review in 2025
Shadow is a 2013 South Korean action thriller film that follows the story of a former detective who seeks revenge against a powerful crime boss.
Family-Friendly Rating
Is this movie suitable for family viewing?
Not recommended for family viewing due to excessive violence and mature themes.
CineReview Recommendation
Recommended for fans of action-thrillers and those who enjoy complex characters and plots.
Spoiler Alert!
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The film's plot revolves around Ji-hwan, a former detective who is wrongly accused of murder and seeks revenge against the crime boss who framed him. Along the way, he teams up with a young woman named Yoon-ji, who helps him in his quest for justice.
Review Details
story8.00/10
The story is engaging and well-paced, with a strong focus on revenge and redemption. However, it feels a bit predictable at times.
acting8.00/10
The acting is strong, with a standout performance from Song Kang-ho. The cast delivers convincing performances that add to the film's tension and suspense.
characters7.50/10
The characters are well-developed and complex, with a strong focus on the protagonist's emotional journey. However, some characters feel a bit one-dimensional.
direction8.50/10
The direction is strong, with a clear vision and a good balance of action and drama. Kim Ji-woon does a great job of building tension and suspense.
cinematography8.00/10
The cinematography is excellent, with a strong focus on dark and gritty visuals. The camera work is smooth and well-executed.
Pros and Cons
Pros
Strong direction, engaging story, and excellent cinematography make Shadow a compelling watch.
Cons
Predictable plot and some one-dimensional characters hold it back from being a truly great film.
Notable Quotes
"I'll show you what it means to be a real detective."
"Revenge is a dish best served cold."
