“Exit” (2018), directed by Lee Sang-geun, is a South Korean film that blends action, comedy, and thrill into an intriguing cinematic experience. The film explores the themes of personal failure, second chances, and the unpredictability of life, all wrapped in a story full of suspense and humor. With a solid 7.0/10 IMDb rating, “Exit” has garnered attention for its engaging narrative, heart-pounding sequences, and performances by its star-studded cast.

Set in a chaotic Seoul, the movie revolves around Yong-nam, a once-promising rock climber who finds himself struggling in life after college. His lack of success in securing a job and constant reliance on his parents forms the backdrop for the plot. However, things take an unexpected turn when a mysterious disaster strikes the city, and Yong-nam is forced to use his rock climbing skills to save himself, his loved ones, and countless others.

In this comprehensive review, we will break down the movie’s plot, characters, themes, direction, cinematography, and much more, providing an all-encompassing view of the film’s many elements.

Plot Overview: The Calm Before the Storm

Yong-nam (Jo Jung-suk) is a man stuck in the rut of his life. Once one of the best rock climbers during his college years, his adult life has been less than stellar. Unable to secure a job for years, he relies heavily on his parents for financial support. His situation worsens, leading him to feel the weight of unfulfilled expectations and the burden of adult life.

The story takes a turn when he decides to celebrate his mother’s 70th birthday at Dream Garden, a venue where his old crush, Eui-ju (Im Yoon-ah), works. Eui-ju and Yong-nam have a shared history, and their reunion sets the stage for both romantic and comedic moments. However, the celebration is short-lived as disaster strikes.

A mysterious white gas, which covers an entire district of Seoul, begins to suffocate people and causes widespread panic. As chaos erupts, Yong-nam and Eui-ju find themselves trapped in the building. With his rock climbing skills and Eui-ju’s resourcefulness, they must navigate the hazardous environment to save everyone. What follows is a thrilling adventure of survival, where the two characters must work together to escape the deadly grip of the gas and reach safety.

Character Analysis: Heart, Humor, and Heroism

One of the key strengths of “Exit” is its well-crafted characters who feel authentic and relatable. The movie’s protagonists, Yong-nam and Eui-ju, offer a dynamic mix of comedy, vulnerability, and courage, making them the perfect fit for the plot’s balance of tension and humor.

Yong-nam (Jo Jung-suk)

Yong-nam, played by Jo Jung-suk, is the film’s main character and is undoubtedly the heart of the story. As a man who once excelled in rock climbing, his inability to succeed in life after college forms the crux of his personal struggle. He is, in many ways, a classic underdog: talented but down on his luck, capable but unrecognized. His reliance on his parents for survival adds a layer of bitterness and frustration to his character.

What makes Yong-nam compelling is his growth throughout the movie. Initially, he is seen as a reluctant hero, someone who has little faith in himself and is burdened by past failures. But as the white gas disaster strikes, he steps up, using his climbing skills and resourcefulness to guide others to safety. The film portrays his transformation from a passive bystander in his own life to an active participant in an extraordinary crisis.

Eui-ju (Im Yoon-ah)

Im Yoon-ah portrays Eui-ju, Yong-nam’s old crush, who becomes his partner in this life-threatening adventure. Eui-ju is not just a love interest but also an essential character who plays a key role in the survival of the group. Her resourcefulness, quick thinking, and adaptability make her a perfect complement to Yong-nam’s skill set.

While she is not as physically capable as Yong-nam, Eui-ju’s ability to navigate the chaos with intelligence and empathy adds depth to her character. Her chemistry with Yong-nam is evident, and their shared history adds a layer of nostalgia and warmth to the story.

Supporting Characters

While the film focuses on Yong-nam and Eui-ju, the supporting cast also plays an important role in the overall narrative. Ko Du-shim portrays Yong-nam’s mother, who is initially unaware of the disaster unfolding around her. The relationship between mother and son adds an emotional depth to the film, and the bond they share is a central motivator for Yong-nam’s actions during the crisis.

Direction and Cinematography: A Thrill-Filled Ride

Director Lee Sang-geun does an excellent job of balancing action, suspense, and comedy. His direction takes the viewer through a rollercoaster of emotions, keeping the tension high while allowing for moments of levity. The pacing of the film is another highlight, as it expertly weaves between lighthearted moments and intense action sequences.

The cinematography, handled by Kim Ji-yong, effectively captures the urgency of the disaster. The film’s visual style conveys the claustrophobic atmosphere inside Dream Garden, with the looming threat of the white gas adding to the suspense. The use of tight shots, long takes, and dynamic camera angles creates a sense of urgency that draws the viewer into the perilous situation.

The action sequences are particularly well-executed. As Yong-nam and Eui-ju navigate through the building, the rock climbing elements are seamlessly integrated into the plot. These scenes are both thrilling and believable, thanks to the film’s strong visual direction.

Themes and Social Commentary: A Tale of Redemption and Resilience

“Exit” is more than just a comedy-thriller. At its core, the film explores themes of redemption, personal growth, and the importance of second chances. Yong-nam’s journey from a man who has lost his sense of purpose to a hero who steps up in a crisis is a powerful metaphor for the struggles many people face in life.

The film also touches on the theme of resilience. In the face of seemingly insurmountable odds, both Yong-nam and Eui-ju find ways to use their skills, creativity, and courage to survive. Their partnership highlights the importance of teamwork and trust in overcoming adversity.

Another subtle but impactful theme is the idea of not letting past failures define one’s future. Yong-nam’s rock climbing skills, once seen as a relic of his past, become the key to saving lives. This serves as a reminder that our experiences, no matter how insignificant they may seem at the time, often prepare us for moments of great importance.

Humor: Balancing Comedy with Tension

One of the standout features of “Exit” is its ability to balance comedy with suspense. The film uses humor to break the tension at key moments, making it more than just a typical disaster movie. The chemistry between Jo Jung-suk and Im Yoon-ah brings an effortless charm to the film, especially during moments of high-stress. Their witty exchanges and lighthearted interactions provide much-needed relief from the darker, more intense scenes.

The comedic elements of the film are also infused with physical humor, often centered around Yong-nam’s rock climbing skills. His attempts to navigate the hazardous environment with his skills lead to moments of slapstick humor, which add a unique flavor to the overall narrative.

Music and Soundtrack: A Perfect Fit

The film’s soundtrack, composed by Jang Young-gyu, complements the film’s tone beautifully. The music enhances the suspenseful moments, driving the tension higher, while also supporting the lighter comedic beats. The soundtrack blends traditional orchestral elements with contemporary rhythms, creating a dynamic and immersive listening experience.

The sound design, especially during the disaster sequences, is equally impressive. The ominous sound of the gas spreading and the constant hum of chaos in the background make the viewer feel as though they are right there with the characters, struggling to survive.

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Final Thoughts

“Exit” (2018) is an exhilarating blend of comedy, action, and suspense that offers more than just thrilling moments. It’s a film about redemption, resilience, and the power of human connection in the face of adversity. With strong performances, a well-paced narrative, and a director who knows how to balance tension and humor, “Exit” stands out as a must-watch film for fans of action-comedies.

Jo Jung-suk and Im Yoon-ah deliver standout performances, and their chemistry on screen adds a refreshing layer to the film’s otherwise intense storyline. The film’s action scenes, combined with its underlying message of hope and personal growth, make it an engaging experience from start to finish.