I must start by saying that I'm not the biggest fan of Kim Ki-Duk, I've seen a number of his films and while he hits the mark more often than not, his films tend to have some pretentious elements.
The story has been told a million times, and with much more flair. There are two girls, one of them despises the other, one of them longs for the other's friendship. Eventually, the first one realizes what a jerk she's been and so they become the best of friends. The end.
The whole prostitution angle doesn't really give the story much depth: wow, there's a pimp involved. Wow, everyone thinks they can exploit a prostitute. And the father's comment to the prostitute in the jail cell? Prostitutes aren't the only ones who whore themselves, huh? DEEP. The worst part is when the "decent girl" steps in for the hooker. What does this prove? That she indeed considers the other girl her equal? Hardly the best way to prove a point.
The rape scene(s) and some other parts might be viewed as disturbing. What I don't see is what they add to the film in this magnitude-- it's pretty much accomplished by this point that prostitutes don't lead the easiest lives.
Some nice subtle touches, decent acting and a couple of pretty pictures. Otherwise utterly forgettable and full of clichés.
The story has been told a million times, and with much more flair. There are two girls, one of them despises the other, one of them longs for the other's friendship. Eventually, the first one realizes what a jerk she's been and so they become the best of friends. The end.
The whole prostitution angle doesn't really give the story much depth: wow, there's a pimp involved. Wow, everyone thinks they can exploit a prostitute. And the father's comment to the prostitute in the jail cell? Prostitutes aren't the only ones who whore themselves, huh? DEEP. The worst part is when the "decent girl" steps in for the hooker. What does this prove? That she indeed considers the other girl her equal? Hardly the best way to prove a point.
The rape scene(s) and some other parts might be viewed as disturbing. What I don't see is what they add to the film in this magnitude-- it's pretty much accomplished by this point that prostitutes don't lead the easiest lives.
Some nice subtle touches, decent acting and a couple of pretty pictures. Otherwise utterly forgettable and full of clichés.