Along with the Gods: The Two Worlds (2017)

Director: Yong-hwa Kim

Starring: Jung-woo Ha, Tae-hyun Cha, Ji-Hoon Ju

After a heroic death, a firefighter navigates the afterlife with the help of three guides.

Hmmm, this was interesting on an entertainment, psychological and spiritual level. This is one of those films you’re either going to love or hate because of its subject matter and your view on religion. I loved it, and the Koreans obviously did, as well, as this film is currently the second highest grossing Korean film in history.

Starting off comedy-ish, the film quickly progressed to a deeper, meaningful and ultimately very emotional film. This film will make you dig deep into your inner soul, analyzing your own life in the process. I loved the underlying themes and how the protagonist’s life unfolded through back flashes. Blasphemy issues will no doubt be raised by some religious people, but I found it all very relevant.

Almost every scene required CGI to bring this unusual fantasy adventure to life, and it looks incredible! I really enjoyed the protagonist’s brother’s back story, who was buried alive (believed to be dead) and then becoming  a vengeful spirit. He wrecks the most amazing mayhem during the fantastic climax scene and the visuals here are simply awesome! This is a film I’ll watch again and again.

The film was nominated for Best Action Film, Best Production Designer, Best Visual Effects, Best Supporting Actor, Best Supporting Actress and director Yong-hwa Kim won for Film Professional of the Year. The film earned $108 million on a $36 million budget.

In Korean.