'Somebody' delivers gripping suspense, showcases actors' prowess

By KTimes

"Somebody" has gripped audiences with its unsettling premise and a powerhouse cast. From eerie character transformations to raw emotional conflicts, the thriller explores the complexities of human nature, leaving viewers on edge.

At the heart of the story is Yeong-eun (Kwak Sun-young), whose life begins to unravel due to her daughter So-hyun’s (Gi So-yu) disturbing behavior. Despite her innocent-looking appearance, So-hyun shows no hesitation in harming others.

Yeong-eun, unable to comprehend her child’s nature, grows increasingly drained as she struggles to help her. Her husband has already abandoned them, and despite her desperate attempts to fix her daughter, nothing works.

So-hyun, relentless in her obsessive love, jealousy, and lack of remorse, embodies the terrifying idea of innate evil. Her haunting expressions — vacant eyes shifting between desperation and cruelty — heighten the film’s psychological horror.

A pivotal event between the mother and daughter propels the story forward by 20 years. Min (Kwon Yu-ri), who lost her memory after a childhood trauma, works at a specialized cleaning company handling unattended deaths.

Her seemingly quiet life is disrupted when Hae-young (Lee Seol) suddenly appears. With nowhere to go, Hae-young quickly integrates into the team, which operates like a close-knit family. As the two grow closer, unsettling similarities to So-hyun’s past behavior begin to emerge, prompting endless speculation.

The film keeps viewers guessing: How will their fragile sense of normalcy shatter and how should one respond when faced with the unthinkable?

What sets "Somebody" apart is its intense immersion and tension, effectively utilizing genre elements while delving into the enigmatic depths of human psychology.

While maternal instincts are a major theme, the film also explores the complexities of human nature that are difficult to fully grasp. Kwak Sun-young and Gi So-yu’s dynamic amplifies the film’s eerie allure, with Kwak delivering a nuanced portrayal of a mother torn between duty and fear, and Gi’s performance being so chillingly convincing that her young age becomes almost unbelievable.

Kwon Yu-ri undergoes a striking transformation, shedding her usual bright persona for a secretive, brooding character. A self-proclaimed thriller enthusiast, she appears to fully grasp the intricacies of her role.

Lee Seol, too, proves to be the perfect casting choice, seamlessly embodying a cheerful yet unpredictable character. The two actresses engage in a gripping fight sequence, shot in a single take after rigorous training at an action school, showcasing their dedication and intensity.

With its psychological depth, gripping suspense and outstanding performances, "Somebody" highlights the sheer talent of its female leads. The film opens in theaters on Wednesday.

This article from the Hankook Ilbo, the sister publication of The Korea Times, is translated by a generative AI system and edited by The Korea Times.